Population
32.08 million (2021)
Official Languages
Portuguese
Languages Spoken
Despite Portuguese being the official language, only around half of the population use it. The rest speak Makhuwa, Changana, Nyanja, Ndau, Sena, Chwabo and Tswa.
People
Mozambique has a diverse population with many Indigenous groups. The main ethnic groups are Makhuwa, Tsonga, Makonde, Shangaan, Shona, Sena and Ndau. Additionally, there are around 45,000 Europeans and 15,000 South Asians.
Religion
Christian (57%) and Muslim (20%) are the main religious groups. There are also Indigenous African and other beliefs present, making up a smaller percentage, and only a minority identify as having no religious beliefs.
Holiday Calendar
January 1st and 2nd: New Year's Day
February 3rd: Heroes' Day
April 7th: Woman's Day
May 1st: Worker's Day
June 25th and 26th: Independence Day
September 7th: Lusaka Peace Agreement Day
September 25th: Armed Forces Day
October 4th: Day of Peace and Reconciliation
November 10th: Maputo Day
December 25th: Family Day
Politics
Mozambique follows a presidential republic system, where the President of the Republic functions as the head of state, head of government and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The president is elected for five years through a run-off voting process, with the prime minister appointed by the President. The Prime Minsters' duties cover chairing the council of ministers, coordinating the roles of other misters and aiding the presidents in the governing of the country, including giving guidance and advice. The country also maintains a small, functioning military known as the Mozambique Defence Armed Forces.
History
This southeast African country that shares borders with the Indian Ocean, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa is officially known as the Republic of Mozambique. Situated on the southern coast, is the largest city and capital of the country, Maputo.
Mozambique's history involves a blend of Swahili culture, external influences from traders, and the Portuguese colonial era, which lasted over four centuries from the seventh until the 11th century. The country became more diverse during the late Medieval period as the country became occupied by traders from Somalia Ethiopia, Egypt, Arabia, Persia and India. 1498 saw the arrival of the Portuguese, with the voyage of Vasco da Gama. Over four centuries they began to gradually colonise the country. Independence was achieved in 1975, followed by a civil war from 1977 to 1992. Mozambique held its first multiparty elections in 1994, contributing to the stabilisation of the presidential republic.
Mozambique is rich in natural resources, allowing it to have strong trade relations with South Africa and Portugal (trading predominately molluscs, crustaceans and echinoderms, plus a growing farming community). It holds memberships in various international organisations, including the United Nations, the African Union and the Commonwealth of Nations.
Etiquette
Respecting local traditions and customs is crucial when visiting Mozambique. The friendly and laid-back atmosphere extends to tourists, promoting a sense of welcome and community. Some establishments will have dress codes - especially for women where it may be important to cover your thighs - and there are restrictions when it comes to photographing certain buildings. It's vital to respect these customs and government regulations when visiting to ensure that you don't accidentally cause offence. While tipping is not common (apart from in tourist areas) an extra 5% at the end of a service is always appreciated and is pretty standard.
Food
Mozambique's cuisine revolves around seafood, with dishes like stews, corn porridge, rice, cassava and millet gracing family tables. Portuguese influence is evident in spices like garlic and pepper and are often featured in the country's staples of beans, cassava chip, potatoes and coconuts.
If you're in the south, be sure to try the local dishes such as matapa which is made using cassava leaves, peanut sauce and prawns or fresh seafood. Be like a local and a opt for the peixie grelhade (catch of the day) or galinha ambezia (chicken cooked in lime sauce and seasoned with garlic, peri and pepper). For the veggies, order a salada pera de abacál, a fresh tomato and avocado salad that will make your taste buds come alive with the rich flavours of fresh, local produce.
Drink:
Don't drink the tap water, even in built up cities such as Maputo, Inhambane and Beir; it's much better to be cautious than risk ruining a holiday. Bottled water is considered semi-luxurious in Mozambique so just be aware that the price may reflect this.
Beers in Mozambique are brewed with thick and sweet maize and a range of options are on offer so be sure to try a variety, but Manica and Laurenta are popular among the locals, as in Maderia wine. The national lager, 2M, is a favourite and can be tried in many bars and restaurants around the country. For those who was something a bit stronger, try Nipa, a cashew nut liquor. But be warned, it's a lot stronger...
