Culture

Customs and Traditions: 

Mozambique was under the control of the Portuguese government for many years, and has gone through decades of colonialism. However, the Mozambican culture have survived, and many traditional practices are still around today.

Religion:

30% are Christians found mainly in the south. In the north, 20% of Mozambicans are Muslims. The rest of the population is intermingled with a mixed religious belief. Traditional notions are based on the idea that every living thing has a spiritual life that dominates. Strong beliefs that the spirits of dead ancestors affect their daily life also exist.

Language:

The national or official language of Mozambique is Portuguese, but languages in this country vary widely, differing from family to family. Here are some examples:

• Emakhua, spoken by at least 41% of the total population of the country
• Nyanja-Sena, spoken by at least 10% of the population
• Shona, spoken by 8% of the population here
• Tsonga, spoken by 19% of the total population of the country.

Music & Arts:

Mozambicans often identify primarily with a tribe and/or linguistic group. The Makonde (the name for the people in the north) are known for their ebony masks and sculptures. The Chopi (from the south central coast) are well known for their complex music and dances. Mozambique’s tradition of visual arts has inspired modern artists who have an international reputation.

Different native groups/communities have different customs when it comes to dancing and art. Though performance arts and traditional art are mostly related to religious and social practices,  some regional traditions are well accepted throughout the nation and even across countries.

Mozambique Music:

Mozambican singer, Dilon Djindji is known as 'the grand old man of Marrabenta,' and didn't enjoy international success until the ripe old age of 75 according to a National Geographic story. For examples of his music, click here.

Cuisine: 

The main ingredient of the Mozambican diet is generally fresh seafood. Stews, corn porridge, rice (arroz), millet, and cassava (mandioca) are also widely available. Meats such as beef and chicken are served with potatoes, beans, cassava chips, cashew nuts, and a variety of spices, including garlic and peppers. Seasonal fruits include papaya and pineapples.

 
In addition to the widely served coffee and tea, adults Mozambicans drink locally brewed beer made from corn which is a sweet, thick beverage often consumed on special occasions from a communal cup. A type of Portuguese wine, called Madeira, is popular in Mozambique. (It was also extremely popular in America during the colonial era and was the drink used by George Washington to toast the Declaration of Independence in 1776.)