Jacob Mafume’s Helicopter Proposal Gets Zimbabweans Talking
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has proposed that the City of Harare acquire a helicopter to help fight fires in high-rise buildings, arguing that it could strengthen the city’s emergency response capabilities. The proposal, made on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, has triggered widespread debate on social media, with many residents questioning whether such an investment should take priority while Harare continues to grapple with challenges affecting its municipal and emergency services.
A video shared by NewZimbabwe.com captured Mafume outlining the proposal. During the same remarks, he also said the aircraft could ferry the mayor to emergency scenes, laughing after making the comment.
It was not immediately clear from the clip whether that part of the remark was made in jest or formed part of the proposal.
Harare Mayor Says Helicopter Could Help Fight High-Rise Fires
Sharing the video on X, NewZimbabwe.com said Mafume believes Harare should add a helicopter to its emergency response resources.
Mafume said:
“The city should acquire a helicopter to help fight fires in high-rise buildings.”
He later added that it could also ferry the mayor to emergency scenes before laughing.
The clip did not include details on how the helicopter would be funded or maintained, and no estimated cost was disclosed.
As of 4 August 2026, the City of Harare had not announced any formal plans to purchase such an aircraft.
Residents Question Whether A Helicopter Should Be The Priority
The proposal quickly sparked discussion online, with many social media users arguing that Harare should first strengthen its existing emergency response system and improve basic municipal services.
Reacting to the video, Chamunofara wrote:
“Instead of talking of an air ambulance and actually equipping first responders, he wants a helicopter to ferry him to emergency scenes to do what… take selfies akapfeka necklace (wearing a necklace)? Harare’s worst Mayor ever.”
Lawrence Tawanda questioned the city’s priorities, saying:
“You can’t even reticulate water, a basic need, here you are bluffing about what people don’t need. Our mind should go beyond our height.”
Another user, Tinashe, argued:
“What we need is a fire station in every suburb.”
Strong suggested drones would be a more practical option.
“There are drones that are significantly cheaper and more efficient, which can do this better.”
Uncle Bhaki shared a similar view, writing:
“Parikuda ma drones (We need drones). A helicopter is expensive. We can’t have a standby pilot for that.”
George also questioned the proposal.
“If the mayor gets ferried to where there are fire outbreaks by helicopter, how is it going to help the fire fighting department?”
Another user, Kaseke, commented:
“When there is no fire you can use it to fly around the capital city Mr Mayor.”
Andromeda was also sceptical.
“That heli will be used as the mayor personal transport and nothing to do with fires.”
Helicopter Proposal Shifts Focus To Harare’s Emergency Services
While the helicopter proposal dominated discussion, many comments centred on the broader state of Harare’s emergency response system. Several residents argued that expanding fire stations, equipping first responders and improving essential municipal services should take precedence before investing in specialised aircraft.
The proposal has put Harare’s emergency preparedness under renewed scrutiny, although it remains unclear whether the idea will be tabled for formal consideration by the City of Harare.
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