Hotel chatter reflects economic revival of Mozambique

Anyone wanting a quick window on what is happening in the Mozambican economy should relax in the Southern Sun Hotel lounge area after work and hear the rich mix of accents as deals are struck over sundowners and complimentary snacks. A little judicious eavesdropping (as we journalists are known to do) will produce snippets about massive coal mining operations, offshore gas and oil, new sugar plantations, rail upgrades, the state of the roads in Tete province, a third cellphone licence, tobacco farming, and – quite naturally – where to get the best prawns in Nacala. “The lounge is definitely where the business community meets,” says Bruce Chapman, general manager of the Southern Sun Maputo. Mingling with the businessmen and women are government officials and representatives from nongovernmental organisations. Many make the Southern Sun Maputo their home from home. It has the perfect location, according to Chapman – being close to the main business district and port, but also the only hotel on the beach. “It is just wonderful waking up to a view of the Bay of Maputo, with the sun glittering off the water. I never tire of it myself,” he says gesturing out over the warm waters, with Inhaca island a blur in the distance. Added to the position is the personal touch provided by Chapman and his team, which includes his deputy Cymon Charnley. They are both highly visible, and know many of the guests by name. Business travellers, who make up the majority of the week-day guests, can also log onto the Internet through a free Wi-Fi network. “A reliable and reasonably fast Wi-Fi network is now the standard for hotels. It’s like hot showers, clean sheets and good food,” he says. And the food is good, as the FTW team can attest. Both the breakfast and evening menus offer a mix of more traditional dishes and something a little different – think swordfish and kudu steaks, goat stew (delicious) and pastries with panache.