Namibian tycoon killed in climbing accident

THE owner of one of Namibia’s most luxurious hotels, Jürgen Raith, died yesterday morning while descending from the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Raith’s family last night confirmed that he fell on the way down after having reached the top of Africa’s highest mountain. “We do not know the details but we will put out a press release as soon as we know what really happened,” a family member said.A friend climbing with Raith, as well as a medical doctor who tried to save his life, were reported to be with the body waiting to be airlifted yesterday.”There was enough support but it didn’t help,” said the family member, who declined to be named.Raith, a prominent businessman, owns the Heinitzburg Castle, one of the the highest spots in Windhoek, which is affiliated to a chain of some of France’s most expensive hotels.He also had several catering contracts around the country.”We do not know the details but we will put out a press release as soon as we know what really happened,” a family member said.A friend climbing with Raith, as well as a medical doctor who tried to save his life, were reported to be with the body waiting to be airlifted yesterday.”There was enough support but it didn’t help,” said the family member, who declined to be named.Raith, a prominent businessman, owns the Heinitzburg Castle, one of the the highest spots in Windhoek, which is affiliated to a chain of some of France’s most expensive hotels.He also had several catering contracts around the country.