Overview of Mozambique

Profile

Mozambique with long coastline and diverse ecosystems is resource-rich country active in fisheries, tourism, mining including coal and rubies, and recently natural gas development. After Portuguese colonial period, gained independence in 1975, ended civil war in 1992, achieving average 7-8% economic growth while facing challenges like poverty, HIV/AIDS, and infrastructure shortage.

Official name: Republic of Mozambique
Common name: Mozambique
Numeric code: 508
Alpha-3 code: MOZ
Alpha-2 code: MZ
Population: 33 million (2024)
Population density: Approximately 42
Primary languages: Portuguese
Major religions: Christianity, Islam, Traditional religions
National anthem: Pátria Amada (Beloved Homeland)
Calling code: +258
Internet TLD: .mz

History

Achieved democratization through colonial rule, independence war, and civil war.

Came under Portuguese rule following Vasco da Gama's 1498 arrival. FRELIMO started independence war in 1964, achieving independence in 1975. Subsequent 15-year civil war with RENAMO ended with 1992 Rome Peace Accords. Multi-party elections and economic liberalization since 1994 shaped current national framework.

Geography & climate

Coastal areas continue with low humid plains, inland is centered on Zambezi River basin with savanna and miombo forests, highlands and mountains scattered throughout.

Tropical savanna to tropical monsoon climate (northern region tropical rainforest climate)

Area: Africa / 799380 km²
Capital: Maputo
Largest city: Maputo
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Niasa, Lake Chiuta, Lake Shirwa, Lake Cahora Bassa
Bordering countries: Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini

Natural resources

Natural gas, Coal, Rubies, Gold, Titanium ore, Graphite, Tantalum, Hydropower, Marine fishery resources, Forests, Sugarcane, Cashew nuts, Limestone, Heavy mineral sands, Aquatic resources

Politics

Government: Presidential republic (multi-party system)

Economy

Currency: Mozambican Metical (MZN)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 18.68 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 53 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Portuguese

Time zone: CAT

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Makua, Lomwe, Makonde, Sena, Shona, Yao, Ndjau, Tsonga, Chopi, Chewa

Life expectancy

60.2 years

Literacy rate

60.7%

National sports

Football, Basketball, Handball, Athletics, Futsal, Canoeing, Volleyball