Global - Technology - Review

Mozambique’s history in the latter part of the twentieth century began with an independence struggle against the Portuguese, and continued with a long civil war in which a million Mozambicans died and many fled to neighbouring areas. The country, on the south eastern coast of Africa, has a tropical climate, and rainfall is heavy in the coastal regions, where cyclones are common. Mozambique has been hit by both flooding and drought in recent years. Problems with access have discouraged tourism; however the wildlife and nature reserves should help with its development. The Portuguese fort and town on the Island of Mozambique, the original capital, dates from 1507 and is a World Heritage Site. The modern capital, Maputo, is situated in the south of the country, and regeneration is continuing with a major development on the Waterfront area. Mozambican culture is a fusion of Portuguese, South African, and Arab elements. Marrabenta music is an urban dance form, played on homemade instruments. The spicy piri piri is a hallmark of the cuisine. Mozambique is a major producer of aluminium. The unusual national flag features a Kalashnikov assault rifle, a device which the opposition would like to see removed.