Miraculous Survival: 7-Year-Old Rescued After 5 Days in Lion-Infested Zimbabwean Park
Lost and alone, Tinotenda braved perilous terrain and wildlife for nearly 50 kilometers before a miraculous rescue brought him to safety
- Tinotenda Pudu, 7, went missing on December 27, 2024, and was found five days later in Matusadona National Park
- The boy survived by eating wild fruit and drinking underground water, walking 49 kilometers through lion-infested terrain
- A “miracle” rescue was made possible after rangers found fresh footprints, leading to his safe recovery
A 7-year-old boy, Tinotenda Pudu, has been rescued from the dangerous Matusadona National Park in Zimbabwe after going missing for five days.
The boy disappeared from his village on December 27, and despite heavy rains hindering the search, park rangers, police, and the local community worked together to locate him.
The search intensified on December 30 when footprints were discovered, leading to Tinotenda’s rescue the following morning.
The area, known for its dense population of lions, posed a significant danger to the child.
Tinotenda had unknowingly wandered into the park, surviving by eating wild fruits and drinking water from underground sources.
Local MP Mutsa Murombedzi called the rescue a “true miracle,” noting that the boy’s survival through 49 kilometers of lion-infested terrain was a remarkable feat. After his rescue, Tinotenda was evaluated at a clinic and later transferred to a hospital for further care. He is now recovering and will be assessed by mental health professionals to ensure his well-being after the traumatic experience.
