President Hakainde Hichilema has confirmed that Vice President Dr. W.K. Mutale Nalumango is safe and in good spirits following a Zambia Air Force (ZAF) helicopter incident that occurred during an official visit to Nakonde District in Muchinga Province.
The President shared the update on his official social media platforms shortly after speaking with the Vice President.
Hichilema Says Vice President Is Unharmed
In his message to the nation, President Hichilema thanked God for protecting the Vice President and everyone aboard the aircraft.
“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. 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,” President Hichilema wrote.
The President’s statement comes after Government earlier confirmed that the helicopter carrying the Vice President was involved in an accident during take-off in Nakonde.
Government Earlier Confirmed Everyone Was Safe
In a statement issued by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick K. Kangwa, Government said the Vice President, all passengers and the flight crew escaped the incident without injuries.
As a precaution, Dr. Nalumango was taken to a nearby medical facility for routine medical checks before being discharged after doctors confirmed she was in good health.
Government also praised the Zambia Air Force flight crew, emergency responders and members of the public in Nakonde for their swift response following the incident.
Investigations Underway
Authorities have announced that investigations will be conducted to establish the circumstances surrounding the helicopter incident.
Government has indicated that the investigation will follow the normal procedures before further details are released.
Vice President to Continue Official Programme
Government has also confirmed that Vice President Nalumango is expected to continue with her official programme after being declared fit.
The reassuring messages from both Government and President Hichilema have eased public concern after news of the helicopter incident spread across social media earlier on Thursday.
Many Zambians have since taken to social media to express relief and offer prayers following confirmation that the Vice President and everyone on board survived the incident unharmed.
