Repairs and rebuilds of Mozambique lodges have begun following damage caused to structures by tropical storm Dineo. Some lodges are expected to reopen soon, while others are hoping to be up and running by the end of the year.
The storm that hit Mozambique in February damaged a number of lodges, including Paz do Pai Lodge, Neptunes Lodge, and Bela Vista Lodge.
The roofs of villas at Paz do Pai are being repaired and work is expected to be complete by the end of the month.
The beach bar and restaurant of Neptunes Lodge was completely destroyed by the storm. The shaded seating areas outside the accommodation and all the fencing are being replaced. Sand has been cleared from the beach bar pool and it will be re-painted and refilled.
The lodge will remain closed until building materials to rebuild the bar and restaurant are sourced. “There is such a demand for building materials here. We hoped to be open for the Easter holidays as we can’t afford to lose that trading,” said Neptunes Lodge’s Joanne Murphy.
Doors, windows and roofs of Bela Vista Lodge were also damaged during the storm. The lodge is currently undergoing repairs but does have unaffected units available to guests. Repairs are expected to be complete in the next two weeks. Fallen trees have also contributed to the damage of the lodge.
The restaurant, bar and office area of Mango Beach Lodge in Tofo, Inhambane, was completely destroyed and is only expected to reopen in December. Steffan Rusche, of Mango Beach Lodge, explains that the devastation from the storm has also impacted the staff, who rely on the revenue from the lodge for their salaries. “What’s important now, is that we’re trying to rebuild as quickly as possible,” said Rusche.
