“I’m Alive and Kicking!” – Vice President Nalumango Reassures Nation After Surviving Helicopter Crash
NAKONDE, Zambia – Zambia’s Vice President, Dr. W.K. Mutale Nalumango, has reassured the nation that she is safe and in good health after surviving a helicopter crash shortly after take-off in Nakonde, Muchinga Province.
The aircraft reportedly developed difficulties moments after departing, crashing after climbing to an estimated 50 metres while en route to Isoka District, where the Vice President was scheduled to continue her official engagements.
Dr. Nalumango had earlier arrived in Nakonde at around 08:00 hours, where she met local stakeholders before addressing a public rally at a local school as part of her ongoing working tour of Muchinga Province.
Speaking live on national television shortly after the incident, the visibly composed Vice President dismissed reports suggesting she had been admitted to hospital, clarifying that she was only taken to Nakonde District Hospital for routine medical examinations following the crash.
“I’m not in hospital, I’m fine. We are fine. Zambians that love us, we are fine. Even if you are in opposition, I’m sure you are happy that we are fine. I’m sure we are all rejoicing,” she said.
She acknowledged that surviving such an incident was traumatic but expressed gratitude that everyone on board had escaped without serious injuries.
“It has happened and God has done His own. Trauma is there when you go through such a thing, but so far I’m well. All things being equal, we will continue with our programmes. God is faithful. We were eight and we are fine. Doctors checked me and all my vitals were normal. My blood pressure and sugar levels were normal,” she added.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa praised the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) flight crew for their professionalism and quick actions during the emergency. He also thanked emergency responders and residents of Nakonde for their swift assistance at the crash scene.
Kangwa said the circumstances surrounding the accident would be investigated through the normal aviation safety procedures and confirmed that the Vice President is expected to continue with her official programme once appropriate arrangements are made.
The incident sparked widespread concern across the country after initial reports of the crash circulated on social media. Relief quickly followed after confirmation that all eight occupants aboard the helicopter survived.
Authorities are expected to provide further details once investigations into the cause of the crash are completed.
