Published Story
Tourism viewed by a Moz. Islander
The tourist comes and he is happy that he can buy things, buy some beers… And we make some money with this. We can make money without tourists, but it is not the same.
Zeina
Unemployed, 22 years old
Excerpted · August 2017
What is your connection with the Island of Mozambique?
Zeina: I like the Island because it’s safe, it has no problems.
Do you know what is UNESCO and its role regarding the Island of Mozambique? The World Heritage Site (WHS) status…?
Z.: No. But I know it has some special classification.
Do you think the Island of Mozambique has changed over time?
Z.: Yes, it has changed. They are making some construction work for people to live in. And they are doing some things also in the fortress, and people have jobs with this. I haven’t seen the Island like this yet. It’s been changing for the best.
What do you think about the coming of foreigners to the Island? Does the WHS nomination help boost tourism or the coming of foreign investigators and investors?
Z.: Tourists are coming more. The Island is doing very well. The tourist comes and he is happy that he can buy things, buy some beers… And we make some money with this. We can make money without tourists, but it is not the same. It is good that they come.
Did you visit any of the museums on the Island of Mozambique? If so, what is your opinion about them
Z.: Yes, I did. It has many things from the past, from our grandfather’s times. It has things about the history of the Island.
Overall, do people care about the conservation of the Island as a historical place?
Z.: No. They don’t care.
What do you consider to be your heritage?
Z.: It’s a song. The songs that I sing here on the Island and that I dance, I play and I like it. Not traditional songs, but ones that I like.
Is there any story or anything you would like to share?
Z.: I’m living here with my family, with my uncle and sister. My mom already died. I’m living in this world. I play with my children now. I don’t have any more stories to share.