Uganda has secured the first private emergency air response service, a move experts say could largely power the nation’s booming tourism and healthcare sectors, courtesy of Rescue.co, a private innovative lifesaving company.
Backed by government support and driven by cutting-edge technology, Rescue.co is promising to deliver help in minutes, not hours.
Whether it’s a medical emergency deep in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or a breakdown in the remote Kidepo Valley, Rescue.co is ready to deploy helicopters, ambulances, and roadside assistance with guaranteed security.
“This is a revolution in emergency response for Uganda. We’ve designed a system that can find you, rescue you, and save your life faster than ever imagined,” said Caitlin Dolkart, Managing Director of Rescue.co Company.
The centerpiece of this launch is “Safe Travels,” a first of its kind product tailored specifically for tourists. With just one subscription, visitors to Uganda now have access to nationwide air evacuation, 24/7 ambulance support, and even nighttime rescue missions anywhere, anytime according to Dolkart.
She said the centralized dispatch system uses geo-mapping and a vast response network to locate and assist clients instantly.
Dolkart called on local partners including ambulance operators, tow trucks, aircraft services, and even roadside assistance providers to join the movement and be part of what could become Africa’s most robust private emergency response network.
“Tourists want adventure but they also want to feel safe. With Rescue.co, Uganda is now offering world-class safety assurance. This is a major step forward not only for tourism but for public health and emergency services,” said Jon Danks, former CEO of the African Travel and Tourism Association, at the launch event in Kampala.
The company is actively working with local responders, hospitals, and government institutions to strengthen Uganda’s emergency ecosystem.
“So whether you’re trekking to see mountain gorillas or exploring the Nile’s dramatic waterfalls, Uganda is now offering peace of mind in every adventure. From ambulance dispatch to airlifts and roadside rescues, this new model is expected to drastically reduce response times and save thousands of lives annually, notes Danks.
