Post-election protests in Mozambique have resulted in the vandalism of gas stations, leaving about 400 workers without contracts and ten stations inoperative. Recovery efforts are complicated by ongoing instability, and skepticism surrounds a government credit line aimed at aiding affected businesses.
Approximately 400 workers at vandalized gas stations in Mozambique have had their contracts suspended as a result of ongoing closures. Currently, ten gas stations remain inoperative due to extensive damage incurred during post-election protests. The Mozambique Fuel Retailers Association emphasizes that restoration efforts are contingent upon an improved political landscape within the country.
The aftermath of the protests shows clear signs of vandalism, with shattered glass and destroyed equipment evident at several gas stations. As noted by Nelson Mavimbe, president of the Association of Fuel Retailers of Mozambique (ARCOMOC), numerous convenience stores were also looted, leaving facilities entirely closed.
Mavimbe indicated that out of at least 30 gas stations affected, ten have yet to reopen. “The recovery process is very complex…difficult to guarantee the restoration of the damage,” he mentioned, stressing that the consequences of daily demonstrations hinder recovery.
Due to closures, many contracts have been placed on hold. Mavimbe stated, “On average, a gas station has about 40 workers, so if we assume that about 10 stations were completely vandalized, we are saying that at least 400 employees had their contracts suspended.”
Currently, there is no timeline for when activities will resume or reconstruction efforts will begin at the destroyed stations. Mavimbe warned of the potential for further vandalism post-repair, saying, “Stability needs to be re-established to allow for the damage to be repaired.”
Regarding the government’s recently announced 10 billion meticais credit line, the Fuel Retailers Association expressed skepticism. Mavimbe concluded, “We do not think these lines of financing are sustainable for those who have lost everything,” illustrating concerns over the viability of financial support for affected businesses until stability is reached.
The ongoing unrest in Mozambique has led to the vandalism of gas stations, causing significant economic consequences, including the suspension of about 400 workers’ contracts. The prospects for recovery and reconstruction remain bleak without substantial improvements in the political environment. Efforts to secure financial support face challenges, leaving affected stakeholders in a state of uncertainty regarding their operational future.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
