PONTA DU OURO – Frequent travellers to Mozambique have been devastated to learn that the legendary Fernando Makavelo of Fernando’s Bar has lost his fight with colon cancer.
Thousands of people expressed their condolences and shared their memories on the Facebook group Mozambique last week, which proved what an inviting smile and humble attitude can do to build friendships among strangers.
For many travellers from South Africa, elsewhere on the continent and even overseas, going to Fernando’s on arrival in Ponta was a cherished tradition. One of the reasons was to enjoy his generous portions of Tipo Tinto and raspberry (R&R). Fernando was a truly beautiful soul who worked his way up from running a small business with a draught machine and a couple of bar stools, to owning a highly successful landmark in Mozambique that was familiar to all.
His passing will leave a huge void. Fernando will be remembered as an entrepreneur of note and just a fun, laid-back guy. “If ever there was a man who deserves a country’s highest honour, it is Fernando,” commented Riccardo Simonetti.
“You taught me how to really enjoy an R&R,” said Irna Maree.
Supporters said the entrepreneur was forever dancing with his customers, and generally making them feel at home. All appear to share the feeling that Ponta will not be the same without Fernando.
His unforgettable smile radiated the same good vibes as Mozambique.
“Great to see that a small business in a small town in Africa touched so many people’s lives,” said Ricus van Heerden.
Just before Fernando’s death many had been questioning where he was. His son Filipe, who will now run the bar, promised customers that Fernando would come back the next day, and then the next, but soon had to break the bad news to them.
“Those R&Rs just aren’t going to taste the same without you,” commented Natasja Mc Intyre Pretorius, while many felt that Mozambique as a whole would never be the same without the man with the widest smile in the country.
Insert: Sharon Fowler and Fernando.
