A boy who went missing for a week has been found alive after being alone in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park. Investigators said he took the wrong turn in his neighborhood and unknowingly wandered 14 miles into the game park.
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Tinotenda Pudu, an 8-year-old boy, survived for five days near the Hogwe River by living off fruits and sleeping in rocky areas, PEOPLE reported. Residents from Nyaminyami and rangers from Matusadona National Park led the rescue mission. Community members beat drums daily, hoping the sound would help bring the young boy home. Pudu heard a park ranger’s vehicle on the fifth day and ran towards it.
Although he initially missed the vehicle, park rangers later found fresh footprints, leading to the rescue. “This ordeal was too much for an 8-year-old, yet he survived,” said Zimbabwean parliament member Mutsa Murombedzi in an X(formerly Twitter) post. She added, “Above all, we thank God for watching over Tinotenda and leading him back home safely.”
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“This is a testament to the power of unity, hope, prayer, and never giving up.”
Matuasadona National Park, located in northern Zimbabwe, is known to have wildlife such as buffalo, hippos, elephants, and lions. The park offers a unique opportunity for wildlife viewing through game drives, boat safaris on Lake Kariba, and guided walks.
