An 11-year-old boy from Bombwe Ward in Kazungula District, Southern Province, has survived a hippopotamus attack after being injured while fetching water from the Ngwezi River.
The boy’s father, Mubitana Kwalombota, says the incident occurred when his son moved toward a deeper section of the river, where he was suddenly attacked by a hippo.
Mr. Kwalombota confirms that the child sustained deep cuts to his left thigh and was initially treated at a local health post before being referred to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital for specialised medical care.
Authorities are yet to issue a statement over this latest incident but Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) has warned communities in flood-prone areas to exercise caution. Southern Region Senior Wildlife Warden Wilfred Moonga recently cautioned residents against crossing flooded rivers and streams, noting that reptiles and other dangerous wildlife have been displaced by the ongoing floods.
By Gabriel Josias Muuba
