The Jewel of the Indian Ocean
Mozambique, officially the Republic of Mozambique, is a southeastern African nation blessed with 2,400 km of Indian Ocean coastline, coral islands, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese heritage. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and growing economy, it stands as a bridge between Africa’s interior and global maritime trade.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Mozambique’s history reflects centuries of trade, colonization, and liberation.
Key Historical Timeline:
Pre-10th Century: Settled by Bantu-speaking tribes; trade with Arab merchants.
15th Century: Portuguese explorers, led by Vasco da Gama, arrive on the coast.
1505–1975: Becomes a Portuguese colony known as Portuguese East Africa.
1964–1974: Independence struggle led by FRELIMO (Front for the Liberation of Mozambique).
1975 (June 25): Independence declared; Samora Machel becomes first president.
1977–1992: Civil war between FRELIMO and RENAMO.
1992: Peace accord signed; multi-party democracy begins.
Today, Mozambique is recognized for peaceful reconstruction, economic growth, and natural resource potential.
🧭 Basic National Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Republic of Mozambique |
| Capital City | Maputo |
| President | Filipe Nyusi (as of 2025) |
| Prime Minister | Adriano Maleiane |
| Government Type | Unitary Semi-Presidential Republic |
| Area | ~801,590 sq. km |
| Population | ~34 million (2025 est.) |
| Currency | Mozambican Metical (MZN) |
| Time Zone | Central Africa Time (UTC+2) |
| Dial Code | +258 |
| Top-Level Domain | .mz |
| National Motto | “Unity, Work, Vigilance” |
⚖️ Government and Leadership
| Position | Current Officeholder (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| President | Filipe Nyusi |
| Prime Minister | Adriano Maleiane |
| Legislature | Assembly of the Republic |
| Judiciary | Supreme Court and Constitutional Council |
| Administrative Capital | Maputo |
The government emphasizes infrastructure growth, decentralization, and anti-poverty reforms.
🗺️ Administrative Structure
| Division | Details |
|---|---|
| Provinces | 11 provinces (including the capital city) |
| Districts | 154 |
| Major Cities | Maputo, Beira, Nampula, Tete, Pemba, Quelimane |
Provinces of Mozambique:
Cabo Delgado
Gaza
Inhambane
Manica
Maputo Province
Nampula
Niassa
Sofala
Tete
Zambézia
Maputo City
🌐 Geography & Environment
Location: Southeastern Africa, bordered by Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, South Africa, and the Indian Ocean.
Terrain: Coastal plains, central plateaus, and mountainous highlands in the west.
Climate: Tropical to subtropical; wet season (Nov–Apr).
Rivers: Zambezi, Limpopo, Rovuma, Save.
Natural Resources: Gas, coal, aluminum, graphite, titanium, fertile soil.
Environmental Focus: Marine conservation and mangrove restoration.
Mozambique’s coastal beauty — especially the Bazaruto Archipelago — makes it one of Africa’s top beach destinations.
Local Government Structure
Mozambique operates under a decentralized governance system
Provinces are led by Governors, appointed by the President
Districts and municipalities have local councils and administrators
Decentralization reforms focus on service delivery and citizen participation
Leadership & Governance
Mozambique is making strides in strengthening democracy, transparency, and infrastructure.
Key priorities include:
Post-cyclone and post-conflict reconstruction
Economic diversification and job creation
Gender equality and youth inclusion
Strengthening rule of law and public administration
Law Enforcement & Safety
Security forces include:
Mozambique Defence Armed Forces (FADM)
Republic of Mozambique Police (PRM)
Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR)
Ongoing security challenges in Cabo Delgado province due to insurgency
Government and international partners working on stabilization and humanitarian aid
