A Cultural Overview
Mozambique, with its long Indian Ocean coastline and rich cultural heritage, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The country’s history of trade, colonization, and migration has resulted in a diverse society, with a wide array of linguistic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.
Ethnicity and Language: The population of Mozambique is ethnically diverse, including the Makua, Tsonga, Makonde, and Shangaan, among others. Portuguese, as the official language, plays a crucial role in uniting the country’s various ethnic groups. Additionally, numerous local languages and dialects are spoken across the country.
Culture and Heritage: Mozambique’s culture reflects a blend of indigenous, Portuguese, and African influences, evident in its music, dance, and cuisine. The country is renowned for its traditional music and dance forms, such as Marrabenta and the Mapiko masks dance. Mozambique also has a strong tradition of storytelling and oral history, which plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity.
Social Fabric: The Mozambican society is characterized by its strong community bonds and extended family networks. Despite facing significant challenges, such as poverty and political instability, the people of Mozambique maintain a resilient and vibrant social fabric, with a strong emphasis on mutual support and cultural celebration.
Where Mozambique is on the Map of
Africa
Mozambique at a Glance
Independence: 25 June 1975
Capital:
Population: 30 066 648
Languages: Sena, Mwani, Chabwo, Changana
Area: 801 590 square km
Provinces: Cabo Delgado, Gaza, Inhambane, Manica, Maputo (city), Maputo, Nampula, Niassa, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia
Ethnic groups: Makhuwa, Sena, Changana, Lomwe
Mozambique is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia north-west, Eswatini and South Africa to the south-west, Zimbabwe to the west.