Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has expressed sadness at the death of an American tourist, who was attacked by a hippo at the Lower Zambezi National Park on 5th June, 2024.
According to a report received by the minister from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, the incident happened when the tourist was undertaking a walking safari in the company of a tour guide and suddenly a hippo charged against them which led to the death of the tourist.
Mr. Sikumba said that despite the efforts of the trained wildlife Police Officer and tour guide to intervene when the hippo charged towards the tourist, the situation unfolded quickly and resulted into the loss of life of the tourist.
“Governments thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased, even as investigations continue on the incident,” said Mr. Sikumba in statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
Mr. Sikumba said that the incident serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure the safety of tourists in national parks.
By Chimba Chilopa / Angel Kasabo
