What is Mozambique?
Mozambique is a southeastern African country bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and South Africa and Eswatini to the southwest. Known for its long coastline, rich biodiversity, and diverse cultures, Mozambique has faced a history of civil conflict but has made strides towards recovery and development since its peace agreements in the 1990s.
Administrative Divisions
Mozambique is divided into 10 provinces, which are further divided into districts. The provinces are:
- Cabo Delgado
- Gaza
- Inhambane
- Manica
- Maputo
- Nampula
- Niassa
- Sofala
- Tete
- Zambezia
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Mozambican Metical (MZN)
- Symbol: MT
- Subunit: 1 Metical = 100 centavos
- Central Bank: Bank of Mozambique (Banco de Moçambique)
Type of Government
Mozambique is a republic with a multi-party system. The country operates under a presidential system where the President is both the head of state and head of government. The President is elected every five years. The National Assembly is the legislative body, while the judiciary is independent and operates under the civil law system.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch
- President: The President of Mozambique is both the head of state and government, responsible for executive functions and commanding the armed forces.
- Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is appointed by the President and assists in managing the government, especially in the execution of policies.
- Cabinet Ministers: The President appoints ministers who head various government ministries such as finance, health, and education.
Legislative Branch
Mozambique has a unicameral parliament, known as the Assembly of the Republic. It consists of 250 seats, with members elected for five-year terms. The Assembly is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government’s work.
Judicial Branch
The judiciary of Mozambique operates under a civil law system. Key judicial bodies include:
- Supreme Court: The highest court in Mozambique, responsible for the final judgment on legal disputes.
- Constitutional Council: Ensures the constitutionality of laws and government actions.
- Provincial and District Courts: Handle civil and criminal cases within their respective jurisdictions.
International Memberships
Mozambique is a member of several international organizations, including:
- United Nations (UN)
- African Union (AU)
- Southern African Development Community (SADC)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP)
Military Structure
Mozambique’s military consists of the army, navy, and air force. The military is primarily focused on maintaining internal security, peacekeeping, and guarding national borders. The country has faced challenges with insurgencies, particularly in the northern regions.
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 119
- Medical Emergency: 117
- Fire: 116
SWOT Analysis of Mozambique
Strengths
- Rich natural resources, including coal, gas, and agricultural land.
- Strategic location with access to international shipping routes via the Indian Ocean.
- Growing tourism industry due to scenic beaches, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Weaknesses
- Persistent poverty and high unemployment rates.
- Inadequate infrastructure in rural areas, which limits access to services.
- Corruption within government institutions.
Opportunities
- Expansion of the energy sector, particularly in natural gas and renewable energy.
- Development of the agricultural sector and potential for agricultural exports.
- Increasing foreign investment, especially in infrastructure and tourism.
Threats
- Political instability and the risk of renewed civil unrest or insurgency.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as cyclones and floods.
- Health issues such as the spread of diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS.
Additional Information
- Official Language: Portuguese
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT) – UTC +2
- National Anthem: “Pátria Amada” (Beloved Homeland)