A businessman, who had invested heavily in the conservation of Namibian desert lions, met a tragic end when he was attacked by one. The incident occurred after he left his tent to use the restroom.

Bernd Kebbel, a 59-year-old and father of two, was with his wife Conny and their friends on a wildlife trip in northern Namibia when the unfortunate incident took place.

The tragedy unfolded when Kebbel got up in the early hours of Friday morning.

The philanthropist climbed down a ladder from the safety of his rooftop tent mounted on the top of a 4×4, before the beast lunged at him.

His desperate screams woke up the rest of the shocked camp in Namibia who rushed to his rescue in the darkness.

They bravely chased off the lioness before it could devour its victim.

Namibian police said nothing could be done to save the keen outdoorsman who was killed almost instantly in the savage ordeal.

His body was covered up until authorities could arrive.

It is believed that the lioness with cubs – named by locals as Charlie – may be hunted and shot dead.

A Namibian lion expert said: “Thankfully it would have been quick as a human is no match for a lioness that is in its prime.

“The Kunene region, where the attack took place, is home to roughly 60 desert lions. In the vicinity of Hoanib Camp, there might be a dozen at most.”

The expert added: “The desert lions have adapted to the harsh and burning desert environment and have become extremely adept night-time hunters as there is no cover for them during the day.”

The businessman has two grown-up children, Dieter and Heidi, both in their late twenties.

They are said to have moved to South Africa where they went to university before pursuing their careers.