Government says it is saddened by the tragic death of a female American Tourist who was attacked and killed by a Hippo on June 5th 2024 in Lower Zambezi National Park.

Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba says the  unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility of ensuring the safety of all the visitors in national parks and all game management and protected areas.

Disclosing this in a statement obtained by ZANIS this evening, Mr. Sikombe added that the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Community National Parks and Wildlife regrets the incident which resulted in the loss of life.

This was  despite efforts by the tour guides who intervened when the beast was seen charging.

The Minister has since sent words of condolence to the family and friends of the deceased.

Mr. Sikumba has  further assured that government takes matters of safety seriously and will investigate the matter thoroughly.

Facts of the matter that on June 5th 2024, a female American tourist who was conducting a guided tour of the lower Zambezi was attacked and killed by a Hippo.