Country Profile · No. 35

Mozambique

Capital / Admin Capital

MaputoPopulation: ~33.9MIndependence: 1975 (June 25)

First President

Samora Machel (1975–1986)Current President: Daniel Chapo (Elected/Serving following recent elections)

Geography & Borders

Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, Indian Ocean. Southeast African nation featuring over 2,500 kilometers of tropical Indian Ocean coastline.

Demographics & Language

Christianity (~60%), Islam (~20%), traditional beliefs. Official: Portuguese language. Major groups: Makhuwa (~40%), Tsonga (~15%), Sena (~11%), Shona (~9%).

Economy & GDP

Natural gas extraction, aluminum smelting, agriculture (cashew nuts, cotton, sugar, prawns), tourism.

Global Diaspora

1. South Africa (~500k), 2. Portugal (~150k), 3. United Kingdom (~20k), United States (~3k–5k). U.S. Hubs (States / Cities): Massachusetts (Boston), Rhode Island, Washington D.C.

Major Conflicts

Mozambican War of Independence (1964–1974, FRELIMO guerrilla struggle against Portuguese colonial rule), Mozambican Civil War (1977–1992, brutal Cold War proxy conflict between FRELIMO and RENAMO).

3 Must-See Sites

1. Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (Stunning pristine Indian Ocean marine park featuring turquoise waters, coral reefs, and endangered dugongs), 2. Gorongosa National Park (Celebrated wildlife restoration success story in the Great Rift Valley, teeming with lions, elephants, and hippos), 3. Island of Mozambique (Ilha de Moçambique) (UNESCO World Heritage coral island showcasing centuries of intertwined Portuguese, Arab, and Swahili architecture).

Quick Facts

The only sovereign country in the world whose national flag prominently features a modern weapon (an AK-47 assault rifle symbolizing defense and vigilance); possesses pristine tropical islands like Bazaruto and Quirimbas.