Geography and Wildlife
Where is Mozambique located?
Mozambique is located in Southeast Africa and is bordered by Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, South Africa to the southwest, and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and South Africa to the south. It also has a coastline along the Indian Ocean to the east.
What is the official capital of Mozambique?
Maputo (formerly known as Lourenço Marques)
Which iconic archipelago, known for its coral reefs and marine life, lies off the coast of Mozambique?
The Quirimbas Archipelago
What is the tallest mountain in Mozambique?
Mount Namuli (2,476 meters)
Which large lake, famous for its hippos and birdlife, is located in western Mozambique?
Lake Niassa (also known as Lake Malawi)
What is the national animal of Mozambique?
The elephant
Which species of tree, nicknamed the "ironwood" for its durability, is endemic to Mozambique and plays a vital role in the ecosystem?
The mubanga tree
What is the name of the vast savanna found in the interior of Mozambique, home to lions, zebras, and giraffes?
The Miombo woodlands
Which protected area in Mozambique boasts one of the largest marine reserves in Africa, with coral reefs, mangroves, and sea turtles?
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
History and Culture
What was the main reason for the Mozambican Civil War, which lasted from 1977 to 1992?
The struggle for independence from Portuguese colonial rule
Who led the Frelimo movement, which ultimately brought independence to Mozambique in 1975?
Samora Machel
What is the official language of Mozambique, spoken by the majority of the population?
Portuguese
What are the two main ethnic groups in Mozambique, accounting for roughly half the population each?
The Makua and the Shona people
What traditional dance, accompanied by vibrant costumes and drumming, is popular in southern Mozambique?
The Mapiko
What is the name of the unique, brightly-painted cloth worn by Mozambican women, often depicting scenes from daily life or history?
The capulana
Economy and Current Events
What is Mozambique's main export?
Natural gas
What currency is used in Mozambique?
The Mozambican metical
What is a major challenge facing Mozambique in terms of development?
Poverty and inequality
What natural disaster frequently affects Mozambique, causing flooding and infrastructure damage?
Tropical cyclones
How is HIV/AIDS a major public health concern in Mozambique?
It affects a significant portion of the population and necessitates access to healthcare and prevention education.
What recent event in 2021 led to increased international attention and support for Mozambique?
The devastating insurgency in Cabo Delgado province, causing displacement and humanitarian crisis.
Miscellaneous
What is the national dish of Mozambique?
Matapa, a stew made with cassava leaves, coconut milk, and cashew nuts
What traditional sport, played with a small leather ball and requiring intricate footwork, is popular in Mozambique?
Capoeira
What unusual natural phenomenon can be observed in the Gorongosa National Park, where large groups of elephants gather to drink from ancient baobab trees?
"The Elephant Bar," where baobabs have been hollowed out by centuries of elephant activity, creating natural watering holes.
What is the nickname for the cashew nut in Mozambique?
"The poor man's almond"😉
What unique nickname does the city of Maputo have, referencing its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene?
"The city that never sleeps"