Mozambique History, Language and Culture

History of Mozambique

The area now known as Mozambique has been inhabited for thousands of years and became an important centre of trade along the Indian Ocean coast. From around the 8th century, Arab and Swahili merchants established trading settlements, exchanging gold, ivory and other goods with communities inland. Coastal towns developed into prosperous centres linking Africa with Arabia, Persia and India.

Portuguese explorers reached the coast at the end of the 15th century, and Vasco da Gama landed in 1498 during his voyage to India. Portugal gradually established control over much of the coastline and later expanded its influence inland, making Mozambique an important colony within the Portuguese Empire. The island of Mozambique served as the colonial capital until administrative functions were transferred to Lourenço Marques (now Maputo) in 1898.

Nationalist movements gathered strength during the 20th century, and the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) launched an armed struggle against Portuguese rule in 1964. Mozambique gained independence on 25 June 1975, with Samora Machel becoming the country's first president. Soon afterwards, the country descended into a prolonged civil war between FRELIMO and the Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO), which lasted until a peace agreement was signed in 1992.

Since the end of the civil war, Mozambique has rebuilt much of its infrastructure and economy while holding regular multiparty elections. Large discoveries of natural gas have attracted international investment, although the country continues to face challenges including poverty, tropical cyclones and an insurgency in parts of Cabo Delgado Province.

Did You Know?

• Vasco da Gama landed on the Mozambican coast in 1498 during his first voyage to India.
• Ilha de Moçambique gave its name to the entire country and served as the colonial capital for more than 300 years.
• Mozambique became the first country with no historical ties to the British Empire to join the Commonwealth of Nations, becoming a member in 1995.

Mozambique Culture

Religion in Mozambique

Christianity is the largest religion in Mozambique, practised by just over half of the population. Roman Catholicism is the largest Christian denomination, alongside Protestant, Anglican, Zionist, Evangelical and Pentecostal churches.

Islam is followed by around one-fifth of the population, particularly in the northern provinces and along parts of the Indian Ocean coast. Most Mozambican Muslims are Sunni.

Traditional African beliefs continue to be practised, often alongside Christianity or Islam, while smaller communities follow Hinduism, the Bahá'í Faith and other religions. Religious freedom is protected by the Constitution, and different faiths generally coexist peacefully.

Social Conventions in Mozambique

Courtesy and respect are important in Mozambique. Greetings are an essential part of social interaction, and it is considered polite to exchange pleasantries before discussing business or asking for assistance. Handshakes are the customary greeting.

Dress is generally casual in coastal resorts and larger cities, but more modest clothing is appreciated in rural communities and predominantly Muslim areas of northern Mozambique. Swimwear should be worn only on beaches and in hotel swimming pools.

Visitors should ask permission before photographing people, religious sites or government buildings. Respect for elders is an important aspect of Mozambican society, and using polite forms of address is appreciated.

Same-sex sexual relations are decriminalised in Mozambique, but public displays of affection are generally uncommon. Visitors should remain mindful of local customs and attitudes, particularly outside the main tourist areas.

Tipping is appreciated in the tourism sector. Small tips are commonly given to hotel staff, guides, drivers and porters for good service.

Language in Mozambique

Portuguese is the official language of Mozambique and is used in government, education, business and the media. While it is widely spoken throughout the country, many Mozambicans speak an indigenous African language as their first language and learn Portuguese as a second language.

Mozambique is linguistically diverse, with more than 40 indigenous languages spoken across the country. Widely spoken languages include Makhuwa, Changana (Xitsonga), Sena, Lomwe, Chuwabo, Ndau and Yao, each predominating in different regions.

English is spoken in some hotels, tourist facilities and businesses catering to international visitors, particularly in Maputo and popular tourist destinations. However, outside the main tourist areas, knowledge of English may be limited.