Stephen spent about three months in Mozambique, with a little side-trip into Malawi. In Moatize, he witnessed the environmental struggle by local people against the owners of the coal mine. They were supported by the commitment of one businessman in particular. Stephen also met the American millionaire who has funded the restoration of Gorongosa National Park. Ravaged by civil war, many species had disappeared but have now returned and Gorongosa has become a role model for Africa. The key is deep engagement with local people and the introduction of new crops and expansion of education and health facilities. Stephen advises Mozambique as a travel destination not over-burdened with tourism and blessed with friendly people and beautiful landscapes. He writes about his travels in a new book, Letters from Mozambique and promises to have copies of his book for sale at these two events. Lynne and I will organise a lunch after the Tavira talk, when we hope for some sunshine in the garden. Please let me know if you are interested.

Concert at Quintinha da Música

Our next concert will take place at Quintinha da Música near Tavira on Sunday, 1st March at 4PM. It will again feature Opera Rebels, the energetic threesome who electrified our audience last April. The two singers, Roza Herwig and Ana-Carmen Balestra, will be accompanied by Julius Backer at the piano and will present arias and songs from opera and musicals. Roza and Ana-Carmen have been trained in the Conservatorium van Amsterdam as opera singers, whilst pianist Julius studied at Sweelinck Academy in Amsterdam, the Yehudi Menuhin School in London and the Hochschule für Musik in Cologne. Their repertoire ranges from the sixteenth to the twenty-first century. Reservations at €30 should be made through Peter at peterbooker1347@gmail.com who will also provide directions if needed.