The Covane Community Association has signed a 10-year tourism operating contract with Barra Resorts, who will run the community’s new lodge on the banks of the Massingir Dam in Mozambique
“Covane is one of a chain of community-owned bush camps that we will be developing as a touring circuit through southern Mozambique. It is well positioned and will be part of the Transfrontier Park, and will also be an ideal stop-over for clients going across the Giriyondo border,” said Dave Law from Barra Resorts.
Covane will begin operating this year once the construction financed by the World Bank and the Ford Foundation is complete. The final construction is under way and should be completed by July. The lodge will offer two houseboats, self-catering chalets, luxury tents and overnight camping.
Peter John Massyn from the African Safari Lodge Foundation says the signing of the contract will have multiple benefits for locals. “The community will get a basic rental plus a levy per bed-night sold to tourists. There are undertakings by Barra Resorts to purchase local produce and materials, as well as train and permanently employ community members.”
Steve Collins, ASLF’s project manager for Mozambique, points out that another exciting development angle to the project is the installation of water pipes and tanks that will provide the local village with water. He says the pipes and tanks were bought with a grant from the World Bank. “The water system piggy-backs on the lodge water pump and will make a significant impact on the community, who still fetch water on foot or by using local pick-ups.”
“We look forward to developing this destination. We have had previous experience on how the effect trickles back into the community and are hopeful that other developments might be attracted to the region,” says Law.
