20 Sep 2006
Recognising Mozambique as an emerging serious contender in the global tourism sector, local and overseas investors are directing funds at several tourism projects throughout the country.
The Mozambican Ministry of Tourism has announced that Rl,86bn could be secured to invest in the country’s northern region this year. The money, it says, will be invested in developing infrastructure in the Niassa Reserve, on the beaches and islands of Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, among others.
The World Bank has also stepped forward with an injection of R149m into the eco-tourism sector. The loan has been awarded to support the conservation of biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
The project will establish and manage conservation areas in Chimanimani, Lubombo and the Greater Limpopo.
Major project
A major tourism development project has already been launched in the northern provinces. Named the `Northern Mozambique Tourism Project`, the USA1D initiative will stretch from the coastal destinations of llha de Mocambique, Nacala and Angoche in Nampula, through the Quirimbas Archipelago and Pemba in Cabo Delgado Province, to the Niassa Reserve and Lake Niassa in Niassa Province.
The initiative focuses on the promotion and development of a sustainable tourism industry in northern Mozambique, and attracting niche market segments interested in diving, bird watching, game fishing, whale watching, hunting and mountain climbing, among other activities.
The US has also announced it will provide a loan of up to R97m as part of a public-private partnership supporting the preservation of the Vilanculos Wildlife Sanctuary.
Natalia Thomson, SA Travel News Weekly