Chapo pledges to make Inhambane mozambique’s tourism capital

At his first major rally in Vilankulo, a key gateway to Inhambane’s tourism scene, Chapo emphasized that the province possesses all the qualities necessary to assume this role, integrating it into his broader vision of creating "thematic capitals." Vilankulo, in particular, was highlighted as the epicentre of this transformation.

"In our view, the province of Inhambane, especially Vilankulo, has everything needed to become Mozambique’s tourism capital," Chapo declared, stressing that this project would be a top priority in his next mandate.

However, Chapo was careful to point out that, in order to turn the province into a true tourism hub, significant investment in infrastructure would be required to improve access and mobility within the region. One of his first initiatives, if elected, will be the rehabilitation of the road linking Pambara to Vilankulo, a route he described as critical to local development.

Chapo noted that tourism could be a high-impact sector for job creation and new business opportunities, supporting the growth of complementary sectors such as transport, education, energy, health, and the environment. “Tourism has the potential to boost other areas of development,” he said, reiterating that Vilankulo, with its natural beauty, could play a central role in this process.

Addressing the province's development, Chapo argued that promoting tourism would be one of the strategies to achieve Mozambique’s economic independence, contributing to the structural transformation of the economy. His focus would be on strategic sectors like tourism, agriculture, energy, fisheries, and industry, ensuring fair distribution of the wealth generated.

Among his promises, the presidential candidate assured that concerns regarding the degradation of Vilankulo’s waterfront would soon be addressed, with funds already secured for a feasibility study preceding the waterfront’s rehabilitation. “We have the project, and we are ready to start implementing it,” Chapo affirmed, expressing confidence in resolving this infrastructure issue.

The former Governor of Inhambane also mentioned new agreements with Sasol, the company responsible for gas extraction in the region, aimed at promoting social initiatives in Vilankulo and surrounding areas such as Pambara. One of the goals of these agreements is to introduce gas-powered transportation, enhancing mobility while leveraging the local natural resource for the benefit of the population.

Chapo also focused on the exploitation of the province’s natural resources, stating that there would be particular emphasis on processing these resources locally to create jobs for young people and increase the value of national products. This approach is aimed at reducing imports while boosting exports, generating direct benefits for the economy.

Vilankulo, located on the bay of the same name, east of the Bazaruto Archipelago, is already one of Inhambane’s and Mozambique’s most important tourist destinations, as well as a renowned global attraction. However, as Chapo noted, the lack of reliable infrastructure remains one of the main obstacles to Vilankulo solidifying its place as a premier tourist destination.

Chapo’s arrival in Vilankulo was met with enthusiasm, with the local population viewing him as a “hometown hero” since, prior to being selected as FRELIMO’s presidential candidate, he served as Governor of Inhambane.

"If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here as a candidate,” he said, thanking the people of Vilankulo for shaping him as a local leader.

After the rally in Vilankulo, Daniel Chapo continued his campaign in the districts of Massinga and Morrumbene, where he will spend the next few days.