Over 13,000 Tourist Bookings in Southern Mozambique Cancelled Due to Protests
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- 19 Dec 2024
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More than 13,000 bookings have been cancelled in Gaza province, southern Mozambique, as a result of violent protests contesting the election results from the October 9 elections. This information was disclosed by Dorcídio Mavie, a technician from the Directorate of Culture and Tourism in Gaza, during a recent announcement.
Mavie reported that the cancellations represent a 50% reduction in bookings, particularly affecting popular tourist areas such as Chidenguele, Xai-Xai, and Bilene. The total number of bookings for the end-of-year festivities was approximately 25,708, and the cancellations are expected to have dire consequences for local businesses.
“The loss is greater because our operators won’t be able to pay their workers, they won’t be able to pay other expenses like water and energy,” Mavie explained, highlighting the potential economic fallout from the protests.
The unrest stems from the disputed election results, where Daniel Chapo, the candidate from the ruling party Frelimo, was declared the winner with 70.67% of the vote. Venâncio Mondlane, the presidential candidate who came in second with 20.32%, has denied the legitimacy of Chapo's victory and has called for protests against the results. The results have yet to be validated by the Constitutional Council.
Since the protests began on October 21, Mozambique has witnessed a wave of demonstrations, resulting in at least 103 fatalities, according to the non-governmental organization Plataforma Eleitoral Decide. The organization reported that from December 3 to 7, there were 27 deaths during the latest phase of protests, with casualties reported in Gaza, Nampula, and Cabo Delgado.
The NGO's report also indicated that at least 274 people have been shot during the protests, and approximately 3,450 individuals have been arrested since the demonstrations began. Mondlane has vowed that the protests will continue until what he describes as "electoral truth" is restored.
The cancellation of over 13,000 tourist bookings in Gaza province highlights the significant impact of political unrest on Mozambique's economy, particularly in the tourism sector, which is vital for local livelihoods. As protests continue and the situation remains volatile, the long-term effects on both the tourism industry and the broader economy are yet to be fully realized. The government and relevant authorities will need to address the underlying political tensions to restore stability and confidence in the region.
