Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Mozambique
República de Moçambique
CapitalMaputo
Population35,631,653
GDP$22.3bn
Area801,590 km²
RegionSub-Saharan Africa
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:11 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
In the first half of the second millennium A.D., northern Mozambican port towns were frequented by traders from Somalia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Arabia, Persia, and India. The Portuguese were able to wrest much of the coastal trade from Arab Muslims in the centuries after 1500, and they set up their own colonies. Portugal did not relinquish Mozambique until 1975. Large-scale emigration, economic dependence on South Africa, a severe drought, and a prolonged civil war hindered the country's development until the mid-1990s.
The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO) party formally abandoned Marxism in 1989, and a new constitution the following year provided for multiparty elections and a free-market economy. A UN-negotiated peace agreement between FRELIMO and rebel Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO) forces ended the fighting in 1992. In 2004, Mozambique underwent a delicate transition as Joaquim CHISSANO stepped down after 18 years in office. His elected successor, Armando GUEBUZA, served two terms and then passed executive power to Filipe NYUSI in 2015. RENAMO’s residual armed forces intermittently engaged in a low-level insurgency after 2012, but a 2016 cease-fire eventually led to the two sides signing a comprehensive peace deal in 2019.
Since 2017, violent extremists -- who an official ISIS media outlet recognized as ISIS's network in Mozambique for the first time in 2019 -- have been conducting attacks against civilians and security services in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. In 2021, Rwanda and the Southern African Development Community deployed forces to support Mozambique’s efforts to counter the extremist group.
Reference: 2021, 2019, 2017, 2016The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO) party formally abandoned Marxism in 1989, and a new constitution the following year provided for multiparty elections and a free-market economy. A UN-negotiated peace agreement between FRELIMO and rebel Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO) forces ended the fighting in 1992. In 2004, Mozambique underwent a delicate transition as Joaquim CHISSANO stepped down after 18 years in office. His elected successor, Armando GUEBUZA, served two terms and then passed executive power to Filipe NYUSI in 2015. RENAMO’s residual armed forces intermittently engaged in a low-level insurgency after 2012, but a 2016 cease-fire eventually led to the two sides signing a comprehensive peace deal in 2019.
Since 2017, violent extremists -- who an official ISIS media outlet recognized as ISIS's network in Mozambique for the first time in 2019 -- have been conducting attacks against civilians and security services in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. In 2021, Rwanda and the Southern African Development Community deployed forces to support Mozambique’s efforts to counter the extremist group.
Geography
Location
Southeastern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania
Map references
Africa
Area
total: 799,380 sq km
land: 786,380 sq km
water: 13,000 sq km
land: 786,380 sq km
water: 13,000 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly more than five times the size of Georgia; slightly less than twice the size of California
Land boundaries
total: 4,783 km
border countries: Malawi 1498 km; South Africa 496 km; Eswatini 108 km; Tanzania 840 km; Zambia 439 km; Zimbabwe 1,402 km
border countries: Malawi 1498 km; South Africa 496 km; Eswatini 108 km; Tanzania 840 km; Zambia 439 km; Zimbabwe 1,402 km
Coastline
2,470 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate
tropical to subtropical
Terrain
mostly coastal lowlands, uplands in center, high plateaus in northwest, mountains in west
Elevation
highest point: Monte Binga 2,436 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 345 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 345 m
Natural resources
coal, titanium, natural gas, hydropower, tantalum, graphite
Land use
agricultural land: 52.8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 7.2% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 45.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 41.7% (2023 est.)
other: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 7.2% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 45.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 41.7% (2023 est.)
other: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
1,180 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Major lakes (area sq km)
fresh water lake(s): Lake Malawi (shared with Malawi and Tanzania) - 22,490
Major rivers (by length in km)
Rio Zambeze (Zambezi) river mouth (shared with Zambia [s]), Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe) - 2,740 km; Rio Limpopo river mouth (shared with South Africa [s], Botswana, and Zimbabwe) - 1,800 km
note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
note: [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km)
Indian Ocean drainage: Zambezi (1,332,412 sq km)
Population distribution
three large population clusters are found along the southern coast between Maputo and Inhambane, in the central area between Beira and Chimoio along the Zambezi River, and in and around the northern cities of Nampula, Cidade de Nacala, and Pemba; the northwest and southwest are the least populated areas, as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards
severe droughts; devastating cyclones and floods in central and southern provinces
Geography - note
the Zambezi River flows through the north-central and most fertile part of the country
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Mozambican(s)
adjective: Mozambican
adjective: Mozambican
Ethnic groups
African 99% (Makhuwa, Tsonga, Lomwe, Sena, and others), Mestizo 0.8%, other (includes European, Indian, Pakistani, Chinese) 0.2% (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017Languages
Makhuwa 26.1%, Portuguese (official) 16.6%, Tsonga 8.6%, Nyanja 8.1, Sena 7.1%, Lomwe 7.1%, Chuwabo 4.7%, Ndau 3.8%, Tswa 3.8%, other Mozambican languages 11.8%, other 0.5%, unspecified 1.8% (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017Religions
Roman Catholic 27.2%, Muslim 18.9%, Zionist Christian 15.6%, Evangelical/Pentecostal 15.3%, Anglican 1.7%, other 4.8%, none 13.9%, unspecified 2.5% (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017Age structure
0-14 years: 44.7% (male 7,548,247/female 7,350,012)
15-64 years: 52.4% (male 8,428,457/female 9,061,065)
65 years and over: 2.9% (2024 est.) (male 473,030/female 490,143)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 52.4% (male 8,428,457/female 9,061,065)
65 years and over: 2.9% (2024 est.) (male 473,030/female 490,143)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 90.7 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 85.2 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 5.5 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 18.2 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 85.2 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 5.5 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 18.2 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 17.3 years (2024 est.)
male: 16.7 years
female: 17.9 years
Reference: 2024male: 16.7 years
female: 17.9 years
Population growth rate
2.54% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
36.5 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
9.6 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
three large population clusters are found along the southern coast between Maputo and Inhambane, in the central area between Beira and Chimoio along the Zambezi River, and in and around the northern cities of Nampula, Cidade de Nacala, and Pemba; the northwest and southwest are the least populated areas, as shown in this population distribution map
Major urban areas - population
1.852 million Matola, 1.163 million MAPUTO (capital), 969,000 Nampula (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female
total population: 0.97 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female
total population: 0.97 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
19.2 years (2011 est.)
note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Reference: 2011note: note: data represents median age at first birth among women 20-49
Maternal mortality ratio
82 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
2.29 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 87.3% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 48.3% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 63.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 12.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 51.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 36.8% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 48.3% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 63.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 12.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 51.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 36.8% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 9.1% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.18 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
0.7 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 71.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 24.3% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 42.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 28.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 75.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 57.6% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 24.3% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 42.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 28.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 75.7% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 57.6% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
7.2% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 1.46 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 1.03 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.22 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.21 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 1.03 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.22 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.21 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 14.3% (2020 est.)
male: 23% (2020 est.)
female: 5.6% (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020male: 23% (2020 est.)
female: 5.6% (2020 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
15.4% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Currently married women (ages 15-49)
63.7% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 16.8% (2015)
women married by age 18: 52.9% (2015)
men married by age 18: 9.7% (2015)
Reference: 2015women married by age 18: 52.9% (2015)
men married by age 18: 9.7% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 10 years (2017 est.)
male: 11 years (2017 est.)
female: 10 years (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017male: 11 years (2017 est.)
female: 10 years (2017 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 24,250 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 718,154 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 718,154 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Daniel Chapo | — | 2025-01-15 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Maria Benvinda Levy | — | 2025-01-15 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Republic of Mozambique
conventional short form: Mozambique
local long form: Republica de Mocambique
local short form: Mocambique
former: Portuguese East Africa, People's Republic of Mozambique
etymology: named for an offshore island; the island was named after Mussa bin BIQUE (or Mussa Ibn MALIK), an influential Arab slave trader who set himself up as sultan on the island in the 15th century
conventional short form: Mozambique
local long form: Republica de Mocambique
local short form: Mocambique
former: Portuguese East Africa, People's Republic of Mozambique
etymology: named for an offshore island; the island was named after Mussa bin BIQUE (or Mussa Ibn MALIK), an influential Arab slave trader who set himself up as sultan on the island in the 15th century
Government type
presidential republic
Capital
name: Maputo
geographic coordinates: 25 57 S, 32 35 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after the Maputo River, which drains into Maputo Bay south of the city; the river is said to be named after the son of Muagobe, a local chief in the 18th century
geographic coordinates: 25 57 S, 32 35 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after the Maputo River, which drains into Maputo Bay south of the city; the river is said to be named after the son of Muagobe, a local chief in the 18th century
Administrative divisions
10 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia), 1 city (cidade)*; Cabo Delgado, Gaza, Inhambane, Manica, Maputo, Cidade de Maputo*, Nampula, Niassa, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia
Legal system
mixed system of Portuguese civil law and customary law
Constitution
history: previous 1975, 1990; latest adopted 16 November 2004, effective 21 December 2004
amendment process: proposed by the president of the republic or supported by at least one third of the Assembly of the Republic membership; passage of amendments affecting constitutional provisions, including the independence and sovereignty of the state, the republican form of government, basic rights and freedoms, and universal suffrage, requires at least a two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly and approval in a referendum; referenda not required for passage of other amendments
Reference: 2004, 1990, 1975amendment process: proposed by the president of the republic or supported by at least one third of the Assembly of the Republic membership; passage of amendments affecting constitutional provisions, including the independence and sovereignty of the state, the republican form of government, basic rights and freedoms, and universal suffrage, requires at least a two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly and approval in a referendum; referenda not required for passage of other amendments
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Mozambique
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Mozambique
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: President Daniel Francisco CHAPO (since 15 January 2025)
head of government: Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Delfina LEVI (since 17 January 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president
election/appointment process: president elected directly by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for 2 consecutive terms); election last held on 9 October 2024 (next to be held by October 2029); prime minister appointed by the president
most recent election date: 9 October 2024
election results: 2024: Daniel CHAPO elected president in first round; percent of vote - Daniel CHAPO (FRELIMO) 65.2%, Venâncio MONDLANE (PODEMOS) 24.2%, Ossufo MOMADE (RENAMO) 6.6%
Reference: 2029, 2025, 2024head of government: Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Delfina LEVI (since 17 January 2025)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president
election/appointment process: president elected directly by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for 2 consecutive terms); election last held on 9 October 2024 (next to be held by October 2029); prime minister appointed by the president
most recent election date: 9 October 2024
election results: 2024: Daniel CHAPO elected president in first round; percent of vote - Daniel CHAPO (FRELIMO) 65.2%, Venâncio MONDLANE (PODEMOS) 24.2%, Ossufo MOMADE (RENAMO) 6.6%
Legislative branch
legislature name: Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica)
legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 250 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 10/9/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) (171); Optimist Party for the Development of Mozambique (PODEMOS) (43); Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO) (28); Other (8)
percentage of women in chamber: 38.3%
expected date of next election: October 2029
Reference: 2029, 2024legislative structure: unicameral
number of seats: 250 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 10/9/2024
parties elected and seats per party: Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) (171); Optimist Party for the Development of Mozambique (PODEMOS) (43); Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO) (28); Other (8)
percentage of women in chamber: 38.3%
expected date of next election: October 2029
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of the court president, vice president, and 5 judges); Constitutional Council (consists of 7 judges)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president appointed by the president of the republic; vice president appointed by the president in consultation with the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSMJ) and ratified by the Assembly of the Republic; other judges elected by the Assembly; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Council judges appointed - 1 by the president, 5 by the Assembly, and 1 by the CSMJ; judges serve 5-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: Administrative Court (capital city only); provincial courts or Tribunais Judicias de Provincia; District Courts or Tribunais Judicias de Districto; customs courts; maritime courts; courts marshal; labor courts; community courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president appointed by the president of the republic; vice president appointed by the president in consultation with the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSMJ) and ratified by the Assembly of the Republic; other judges elected by the Assembly; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Council judges appointed - 1 by the president, 5 by the Assembly, and 1 by the CSMJ; judges serve 5-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: Administrative Court (capital city only); provincial courts or Tribunais Judicias de Provincia; District Courts or Tribunais Judicias de Districto; customs courts; maritime courts; courts marshal; labor courts; community courts
Political parties
Democratic Movement of Mozambique (Movimento Democratico de Mocambique) or MDM
Liberation Front of Mozambique (Frente de Liberatacao de Mocambique) or FRELIMO
Mozambican National Resistance (Resistencia Nacional Mocambicana) or RENAMO
Liberation Front of Mozambique (Frente de Liberatacao de Mocambique) or FRELIMO
Mozambican National Resistance (Resistencia Nacional Mocambicana) or RENAMO
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Alfredo Fabião NUVUNGA (since 19 April 2023)
chancery: 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 293-7147
FAX: [1] (202) 835-0245
email address and website: washington.dc@embamoc.gov.mz
https://usa.embamoc.gov.mz/
Reference: 2023chancery: 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 293-7147
FAX: [1] (202) 835-0245
email address and website: washington.dc@embamoc.gov.mz
https://usa.embamoc.gov.mz/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Abigail L. DRESSEL (since 11 August 2025)
embassy: Avenida Marginal 5467, Maputo
mailing address: 2330 Maputo Place, Washington DC 20521-2330
telephone: [258] (84) 095-8000
email address and website: MaputaConsular@state.gov
https://mz.usembassy.gov/
embassy: Avenida Marginal 5467, Maputo
mailing address: 2330 Maputo Place, Washington DC 20521-2330
telephone: [258] (84) 095-8000
email address and website: MaputaConsular@state.gov
https://mz.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, CPLP, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OIF (observer), OPCW, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, Union Latina, UPU, WCO, WFP, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
25 June 1975 (from Portugal)
Reference: 1975National holiday
Independence Day, 25 June (1975)
Reference: 1975Flag
description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), black, and yellow, with a red isosceles triangle based on the left side; the black band is edged in white; centered in the triangle is a five-pointed yellow star with a crossed black-and-white rifle and hoe, on top of an open white book
meaning: green stands for the riches of the land, white for peace, black for the African continent, yellow for the country's minerals, and red for the fight for independence; the rifle stands for defense and vigilance, the hoe for agriculture, the open book for the importance of education, and the star for Marxism and internationalism
note: note: one of two national flags featuring a firearm; the other is Guatemala
meaning: green stands for the riches of the land, white for peace, black for the African continent, yellow for the country's minerals, and red for the fight for independence; the rifle stands for defense and vigilance, the hoe for agriculture, the open book for the importance of education, and the star for Marxism and internationalism
note: note: one of two national flags featuring a firearm; the other is Guatemala
National symbol(s)
rifle, hoe, and book
National color(s)
green, black, yellow, white, red
National anthem(s)
title: “Pátria Amada” (Lovely Fatherland)
lyrics/music: Salomão J. MANHICA/unkown
history: adopted 2002; the new anthem reflects the new multi-party political system
Reference: 2002lyrics/music: Salomão J. MANHICA/unkown
history: adopted 2002; the new anthem reflects the new multi-party political system
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 1 (cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Island of Mozambique
selected World Heritage Site locales: Island of Mozambique
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mozambique official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assembly of the Republic | — | 250 | — |
Economy
Economic overview
low-income East African economy; subsistence farming dominates labor force; return to growth led by agriculture and extractive industries; Islamist insurgency threatens natural gas projects in north; ongoing foreign debt restructuring and resolution under IMF Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $51.786 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $50.844 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $48.222 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $50.844 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $48.222 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $1,500 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $1,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $1,500 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $1,500 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $1,500 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 26.3% (2024 est.)
industry: 24.6% (2024 est.)
services: 38.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 24.6% (2024 est.)
services: 38.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 69% (2024 est.)
government consumption: 17.1% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 24.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 42.7% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -52.9% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2024government consumption: 17.1% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 24.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 42.7% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -52.9% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
cassava, maize, sugarcane, tomatoes, beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, coconuts, onions (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
aluminum, petroleum products, chemicals (fertilizer, soap, paints), textiles, cement, glass, asbestos, tobacco, food, beverages
Industrial production growth rate
2.9% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
15.173 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 7.4% (2024 est.)
male: 7.5% (2024 est.)
female: 7.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 7.5% (2024 est.)
female: 7.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
62.8% (2019 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2019note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2019: 50.3 (2019 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2019note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 1.7% (2019 est.)
highest 10%: 41.1% (2019 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2019highest 10%: 41.1% (2019 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 1.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $6.243 billion (2024 est.)
expenditures: $7.223 billion (2024 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2024expenditures: $7.223 billion (2024 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2022: 76.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Taxes and other revenues
22.7% (of GDP) (2022 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2022note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$2.498 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$2.207 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$6.367 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$2.207 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$6.367 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $9.358 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $9.405 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $9.409 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $9.405 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $9.409 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
India 18%, China 13%, South Africa 9%, UAE 6%, Thailand 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
coal, natural gas, aluminum, gold, precious stones (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $10.488 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $11.18 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $15.932 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $11.18 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $15.932 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
South Africa 34%, China 14%, India 13%, UAE 6%, Singapore 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, chromium ore, iron alloys, iron ore, palm oil (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $3.843 billion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $3.637 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $2.939 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $3.637 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $2.939 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $8.274 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: meticais (MZM) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 63.905 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 63.886 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 63.851 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 65.465 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 69.465 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 63.905 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 63.886 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 63.851 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 65.465 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 69.465 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$2.498 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$2.207 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$6.367 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$2.207 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$6.367 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $9.358 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $9.405 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $9.409 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $9.405 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $9.409 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
India 18%, China 13%, South Africa 9%, UAE 6%, Thailand 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
coal, natural gas, aluminum, gold, precious stones (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $10.488 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $11.18 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $15.932 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $11.18 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $15.932 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
South Africa 34%, China 14%, India 13%, UAE 6%, Singapore 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, chromium ore, iron alloys, iron ore, palm oil (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 2.86 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 12.983 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 11.483 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 8.287 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 3.38 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 12.983 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 11.483 billion kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 8.287 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 3.38 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 16.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 0.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 82.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 0.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 82.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
production: 10.583 million metric tons (2023 est.)
consumption: 13,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 10.658 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 900 metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 1.792 billion metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 13,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 10.658 million metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 900 metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 1.792 billion metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
refined petroleum consumption: 42,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Natural gas
production: 8.873 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
consumption: 1.625 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
exports: 7.09 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 2.832 trillion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021consumption: 1.625 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
exports: 7.09 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 2.832 trillion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 5.789 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 29,000 (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Reference: 2022subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
82 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 9.1% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.18 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
0.7 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
7.2% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 14.3% (2020 est.)
male: 23% (2020 est.)
female: 5.6% (2020 est.)
Reference: 2020male: 23% (2020 est.)
female: 5.6% (2020 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 10 years (2017 est.)
male: 11 years (2017 est.)
female: 10 years (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017male: 11 years (2017 est.)
female: 10 years (2017 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
mixed system of Portuguese civil law and customary law
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of the court president, vice president, and 5 judges); Constitutional Council (consists of 7 judges)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president appointed by the president of the republic; vice president appointed by the president in consultation with the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSMJ) and ratified by the Assembly of the Republic; other judges elected by the Assembly; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Council judges appointed - 1 by the president, 5 by the Assembly, and 1 by the CSMJ; judges serve 5-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: Administrative Court (capital city only); provincial courts or Tribunais Judicias de Provincia; District Courts or Tribunais Judicias de Districto; customs courts; maritime courts; courts marshal; labor courts; community courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president appointed by the president of the republic; vice president appointed by the president in consultation with the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSMJ) and ratified by the Assembly of the Republic; other judges elected by the Assembly; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Council judges appointed - 1 by the president, 5 by the Assembly, and 1 by the CSMJ; judges serve 5-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: Administrative Court (capital city only); provincial courts or Tribunais Judicias de Provincia; District Courts or Tribunais Judicias de Districto; customs courts; maritime courts; courts marshal; labor courts; community courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Armed Forces for the Defense of Mozambique (Forcas Armadas de Defesa de Mocambique, FADM): Army, Mozambique Navy, Mozambique Air Force
Ministry of Interior: Mozambique National Police (PRM; includes the Rapid Intervention Unit, UIR), the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC), Border Security Force; other security forces include the Presidential Guard and the Force for the Protection of High-Level Individuals (2025)
note: note 1: the FADM and other security forces are referred to collectively as the Mozambican Defense and Security Forces (FDS)
note 2: the PRM, SERNIC, and the UIR are responsible for law enforcement and internal security; the Border Security Force is responsible for protecting the country’s international borders and for carrying out police duties within 24 miles of borders
note 3: in 2023, the Mozambique Government legalized local militias that have been assisting security forces operating in Cabo Delgado against Islamic militants since 2020; this Local Force is comprised of ex-combatants and other civilians and receives training, uniforms, weapons, and logistical support from the FADM
Reference: 2025, 2023, 2020Ministry of Interior: Mozambique National Police (PRM; includes the Rapid Intervention Unit, UIR), the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC), Border Security Force; other security forces include the Presidential Guard and the Force for the Protection of High-Level Individuals (2025)
note: note 1: the FADM and other security forces are referred to collectively as the Mozambican Defense and Security Forces (FDS)
note 2: the PRM, SERNIC, and the UIR are responsible for law enforcement and internal security; the Border Security Force is responsible for protecting the country’s international borders and for carrying out police duties within 24 miles of borders
note 3: in 2023, the Mozambique Government legalized local militias that have been assisting security forces operating in Cabo Delgado against Islamic militants since 2020; this Local Force is comprised of ex-combatants and other civilians and receives training, uniforms, weapons, and logistical support from the FADM
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 2% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 2% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 2% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 2% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 2% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 1.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 12,000 active FADM (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the FADM's inventory consists primarily of Russian and Soviet-era equipment, although in recent years it has received some more modern equipment from a variety of countries, mostly as aid/donations (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
has conscription and voluntary service; registration for military service is mandatory for all men and women at 18 years of age; 18-35 years of age for selective compulsory military service; 18 years of age for voluntary service for men and women; initial 60-month service obligation (2025)
Military - note
the FADM is responsible for external security, cooperating with police on internal security, and responding to natural disasters and other emergencies; the primary focus of the FADM is countering an insurgency in the northern province of Cabo Delgado by militants affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham terrorist group (ISIS-Mozambique; known locally as Ahl al-Sunna wal-Jama‘a); since 2017, the conflict has claimed an estimated 6,000 lives and displaced an estimated one million persons; at Mozambique's request, Rwanda and several southern African countries under the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) deployed forces to Mozambique to combat the insurgency in 2021; the SADC forces departed in 2024; as of 2025, Rwanda continued to provide approximately 3,000 military and police personnel to assist Mozambican Defense and Security Forces, along with several hundred Tanzanian troops; the EU has also provided training assistance (2025)
Reference: 2025, 2024, 2021, 2017International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Alfredo Fabião NUVUNGA (since 19 April 2023)
chancery: 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 293-7147
FAX: [1] (202) 835-0245
email address and website: washington.dc@embamoc.gov.mz
https://usa.embamoc.gov.mz/
Reference: 2023chancery: 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 293-7147
FAX: [1] (202) 835-0245
email address and website: washington.dc@embamoc.gov.mz
https://usa.embamoc.gov.mz/
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Abigail L. DRESSEL (since 11 August 2025)
embassy: Avenida Marginal 5467, Maputo
mailing address: 2330 Maputo Place, Washington DC 20521-2330
telephone: [258] (84) 095-8000
email address and website: MaputaConsular@state.gov
https://mz.usembassy.gov/
embassy: Avenida Marginal 5467, Maputo
mailing address: 2330 Maputo Place, Washington DC 20521-2330
telephone: [258] (84) 095-8000
email address and website: MaputaConsular@state.gov
https://mz.usembassy.gov/
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, CPLP, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OIF (observer), OPCW, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, Union Latina, UPU, WCO, WFP, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| African Union (AU) | member | — |
| Commonwealth of Nations (Commonwealth) | member | 1995-00-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1975-09-16 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
International organization participation
ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, CPLP, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIC, OIF (observer), OPCW, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, Union Latina, UPU, WCO, WFP, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 24,250 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 718,154 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 718,154 (2024 est.)
Terrorist group(s)
Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Mozambique (ISIS-M)
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
C9
Airports
92 (2025)
Railways
total: 4,787 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 4,787 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Reference: 2014narrow gauge: 4,787 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Merchant marine
total: 36 (2023)
by type: general cargo 9, other 27
Reference: 2023by type: general cargo 9, other 27
Ports
total ports: 11 (2024)
large: 0
medium: 2
small: 5
very small: 4
ports with oil terminals: 3
key ports: Beira, Chinde, Inhambane, Maputo, Mocambique, Pebane, Porto Belo
Reference: 2024large: 0
medium: 2
small: 5
very small: 4
ports with oil terminals: 3
key ports: Beira, Chinde, Inhambane, Maputo, Mocambique, Pebane, Porto Belo
Environment
Environmental issues
increased population migration to urban and coastal areas; desertification; soil erosion; deforestation; water pollution from artisanal mining; pollution of surface and coastal waters; wildlife preservation (elephant poaching for ivory)
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Reference: 2006signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Climate
tropical to subtropical
Land use
agricultural land: 52.8% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 7.2% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 45.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 41.7% (2023 est.)
other: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 7.2% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 45.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 41.7% (2023 est.)
other: 5.5% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 38.8% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 4.24% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 4.24% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 9.549 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: -68,287 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 6.244 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 3.373 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: -68,287 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 6.244 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 3.373 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
17.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Methane emissions
energy: 320.1 kt (2022-2024 est.)
agriculture: 169.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 117.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 101.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022, 2021, 2019agriculture: 169.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 117.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 101.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 2.5 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.2% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.2% (2022 est.)
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 372 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 25 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 1.076 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 25 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 1.076 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
217.1 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 29,000 (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Reference: 2022subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: (2022 est.) less than 1
Broadcast media
1 state-run TV station supplemented by a private TV station; Portuguese state TV's African service, RTP Africa, and Brazilian-owned TV Miramar are available; state-run radio provides nearly 100% territorial coverage and broadcasts in multiple languages; a number of privately owned and community-operated stations; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are available (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.mz
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 27,337,105 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 28,166,393 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 29,018,644 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 29,884,380 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 30,783,688 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 31,707,800 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 32,656,246 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 33,635,160 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 34,631,766 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 35,631,653 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $12,069,051,237 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $13,264,640,646 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $15,017,358,953 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $15,512,759,047 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $14,235,420,174 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $16,168,055,475 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $18,884,232,599 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $20,927,498,317 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $22,752,244,245 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $22,337,997,046 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 338,850 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 353,143 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 1,989,048 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 761,443 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 650,229 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 641,039 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 655,516 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 671,672 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 689,058 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 702,796 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | -43,398 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -25,043 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -50,224 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -49,080 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -25,864 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -23,103 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -34,936 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -36,276 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -38,940 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -65,573 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 35,631,653 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 36,639,851 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 29,668,834 | 2017 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 353,143 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 1.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 702,796 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -65,573 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees hosted | 5,105 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Asylum seekers hosted | 18,972 | 2025 | UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 119 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 7,207 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.518 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | -0.346 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | -0.350 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 0.407 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 0.168 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 0.600 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 0.830 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Legal since 29 June 2015 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans some anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $22,337,997,046 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $627 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | -0.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 4.4% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 6.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Low income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 63.8 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 4.7 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 37.2% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 20.5% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 41.4% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 55.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 97.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 61.7% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 37.2% | 2017 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 6.0% | 2022 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 36.9% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 391 kWh/person | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 76.9% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 8.5% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 43.7 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 45.8% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 49.5 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 0.1 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 37 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | -25.9664° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | 32.5713° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | -19.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | 35.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC+02:00, Africa/Maputo | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- UNHCR Refugee Population Statistics Database. Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 4.0 except where a dataset identifies a different source or licence. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:10:29