Some History
Colonised by the Portuguese in 1505, Mozambique remained under Portuguese sovereignty for five centuries. It was not until 1975, after the overthrow of the Salazar regime, that the country finally gained its independence thanks to the Liberation Front of Mozambique, which is still in power today.
Youth, Youth & More Youth!
Mozambique is one of the countries with the youngest population in the world. Of the more than 22 million inhabitants, nearly half are under the age of 20. Mozambican families have an average of five children.
A Multilingual Country
Even though Portuguese is the official language Mozambique, more than 40 languages are used regularly in the country! The other main languages are Emakhuwa, Xichangana, Elomwe, Chisena and Echuwabo.
Civil War
Two years after the country's independence, a violent civil war broke out in Mozambique. Many civilians died due to famine and fighting. The war ended in 1992 and the country's first elections took place in 1994.
A Peculiar Flag
Like Guatemala, Mozambique is one of the few countries in the world to display a modern weapon on its flag. The weapon (a Kalashnikov AK-47) symbolises the struggle of the Mozambican people for their independence as a united country and their determination to protect freedom.
Financial Distress
Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world, with almost half of its population living below the poverty line. Today, its main economic resources come from agriculture but the progressive development of tourism is one of the country's assets for a better future.
