Vice President of Zambia Mutale Nalumango escaped injury after a Zambia Air Force helicopter carrying her was involved in an incident during takeoff in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province, on Thursday, government officials said.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed that the incident occurred while the Vice President was undertaking an official visit to the district.
“Mrs. Mutale Nalumango had an accident at takeoff in Nakonde, Muchinga Province, during her official visit to the region. The Vice President and all passengers and crew are safe and well,” Mr. Kangwa said in a statement.
As a precautionary measure, Ms. Nalumango was taken to Nakonde Hospital for a routine medical examination following the incident. Officials said she was later discharged after being assessed by medical personnel.
Mr. Kangwa said the Vice President was in good health and that all passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft were safe.
“As a standard precaution, she was taken to Nakonde Hospital for a routine check and has since been discharged,” he said.
Government authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the incident. Mr. Kangwa said relevant agencies would conduct investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.
“The relevant authorities will establish the circumstances of the incident in a normal way,” he stated.
Despite the incident, the Vice President is expected to continue with her scheduled engagements in the region, according to the government.
Mr. Kangwa also commended the flight crew and emergency responders for their professionalism during the incident and thanked residents of Nakonde District for their swift assistance.
The development prompted a message from President Hakainde Hichilema, who said he had spoken with the Vice President following the incident.
“Fellow citizens, we have just spoken with Her Honour the Vice President and our Running Mate, Mrs. W.K. Mutale Nalumango, who was involved in a helicopter incident today,” the President said.
“We are grateful to God to report that she is in good spirits and unharmed. We thank God for His protection and for preserving her life.”
Authorities are expected to provide further details once investigations into the incident are completed.
Source: lusakatimes.com
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