FORMER permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health Gavin Silwamba is dead.

Family member, Erick Silwamba, confirmed the death of his elder brother to the Times yesterday and said Dr Silwamba died on Saturday in Mumbwa District.

Mr Silwamba said his brother had gone hunting in Mumbwa with his friend, Yuyi Lishomwa, and while there, they decided to use a canoe to cross to the other side when the canoe capsised.

"Well, the story we've been told is that the canoe he was in with his friend Mr Lishomwa from Spectra Oil, capsised. That is all we know as at now and we as a family are just making funeral arrangements," he said.

His wife, Violat, four daughters and three grandchildren survive Dr Silwamba.

Funeral is being held at plot number 2286744, Lake Road, Kabulonga.