Zambia’s Vice President, Mutale Nalumango, has escaped unhurt after a military helicopter carrying her and seven others crashed shortly after takeoff during a campaign trip ahead of the country’s general election.
The incident occurred on Thursday as Nalumango and her team departed from a political rally in Nakonde, a town in northeastern Zambia.
Despite the crash, all eight people on board survived without injuries.
Nalumango recounts the incident
Speaking after the accident, the 71-year-old vice president said the helicopter had only been airborne for a short time before it suddenly came down.
According to her, everyone on board was safe, although the aircraft sustained significant damage in the crash.
She added that the cause of the accident was not immediately known.
Medical checks confirm she is unharmed
A statement from the Zambian government confirmed that Nalumango underwent routine medical examinations after the incident.
Officials said she was discharged in good health after doctors found no serious injuries.
Images circulating on social media showed the Air Force helicopter lying on its side after apparently crashing into a tree.
Election campaign continues
The incident comes as Zambia intensifies preparations for its general election scheduled for August 13.
President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term in office in the southern African nation, one of the continent’s leading copper producers.
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the helicopter crash.