Despite recent protests across South Africa, the Triland Tourism Partners, representing Mpumalanga, the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of Mozambique, have acknowledged public concerns and reaffirmed their commitment to providing safe, memorable and well-co-ordinated travel experiences across the Triland route.

“As neighbouring destinations united by a shared vision for regional tourism, we reassure local, regional and international travellers that Mpumalanga, Eswatini and Mozambique remain open and welcoming,” the statement said.

The partners added that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right in South Africa, they firmly reject intimidation, violence, xenophobia and criminality directed at visitors, residents or businesses

Viral beach bar incident sparks concern

The reassurance comes after concerns over xenophobic tensions after recent protests in South Africa and a viral video showing a confrontation between South African tourists and staff at Pinto’s Beach Bar in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique.

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The video, which circulated widely on social media, shows South African tourists being asked to leave the restaurant after a dispute. In the video, a woman can be heard shouting an obscenity at the group.

Restaurant disputes xenophobia claims

In response, the restaurant released a statement alleging that at about 16:00, a group of South African citizens arrived at the establishment requesting to speak with management. According to the restaurant, some members of the group became aggressive by raising their voices, banging on the counter and making threats towards staff members.

The restaurant further alleged that acts of vandalism occurred, including the removal of flyers and other materials displayed on the establishment’s windows, as well as the disruption of its normal business operations.

According to the restaurant, the situation was brought under control after the intervention of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique, who restored order and escorted those involved from the establishment.
The restaurant also alleged that tensions had begun the previous evening after the same South African visitors claimed that a mobile phone had gone missing.

Although the available footage did not confirm the alleged theft, the restaurant said accusations continued to be directed at people present at the establishment, contributing to an atmosphere of tension.

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“The management of Pinto’s Beach Bar categorically rejects any form of xenophobia, discrimination, or incitement to hatred between peoples. Our establishment welcomes customers of many different nationalities every day and has always operated according to the principles of respect, equality, hospitality and peaceful coexistence.”

Authorities investigate incident

Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks spokesperson Simphiwe Shungube confirmed that the matter is receiving the attention it deserves and that their partners in the Republic of Mozambique are currently investigating the incident.

“As Triland partners, we remain firmly committed to working together to strengthen our partnership, promote regional tourism, and ensure that visitors continue to enjoy safe and memorable travel experiences across our destinations,” Shungube concluded.