South African everest expedition at risk of being called off

01 Feb 2016 | Admin Author

Discovery Vitality's Divisional Manager, Saray Khumalo, and renowned South African mountaineer, Sibusiso Vilane are expecting to hear on Thursday whether or not they'll proceed with their mission on Mount Everest.

They're currently part of a 21-strong group which is safe at Base Camp.

Khumalo is hoping to become the first Black African woman to summit Everest, but the expedition is in severe jeopardy after 16 Nepalese Sherpa guides were killed in an avalanche on the mountain last week.

Earlier this week, the Sherpa's declared the climbing season over out of respect to those killed in the avalanche.

Two expeditions have already been cancelled.

Dr Liziwe Masoga, who is the Head of Discovery People Operations, says she's confident Khumalo's charity drive will continue - even if the expedition is called off.

"Saray is raising money for the "lunchbox fund" which is a fund that feeds children from underprivileged backgrounds whilst they are at school. The aim was to raise one million rand by the time she returns. Up to date she has had pledges of up to R150 000 to date. We are hoping South Africans will support this cause" she said.

Picture: From Saray's Twitter account. She posted a picture of the avalanche last Friday