The Republic of Mozambique, located along the Indian Ocean in south-eastern Africa, is a country as rich in history, culture, and traditions. Originally inhabited by Bantu tribes from the northern regions of Africa and then Swahili and Arab tribes from the far east, Mozambique fell under Portuguese control in the early 15th century. For several decades, it remained a major trading port and economic outpost of Portugal, eventually falling under European Colonial rule. Mozambique remained a Colonial establishment until gaining independence in 1975, following the ten years Mozambique War of Independence. Two years later, the country plunged into a civil war which lasted over 15 years. These long-term conflicts devastated the country's infrastructure and economy, driving the population into long-term poverty.
Despite sub-standard education, inadequate health-care, and poor living conditions, the Mozambique people have maintained their diverse social and ethnic diversity. A variety of traditions, languages, dress, and artistic expressions blend together to form the dynamic melting-pot of Mozambique culture. The people of Mozambique proudly display this culture through folkloric songs, dance, and poetry as well as a myriad of artistic expressions including sculpture, pottery, carvings, fabrics, and jewelery.
The Makonde, who reside in the northern regions, are skilled artisans known for their ebony carvings and masks. Their carvings, mostly abstract figures that represent various spirits, play a central role in their coming-of-age traditions. Similarly, masks represent spirits and deceased relatives, are used as ornamentation during dances and rituals. Painstakingly crafted, the mask sculptor strives to capture the essence of the deceased spirit through vivid colors and detailed carvings. The mask is an essential part of the Mozambique culture and is seen as a conduit between the living world and the supernatural world.
The Chopi, from the southern region, are known for their music and dance. They are most famous for the masterful musical fusions consisting of xylophones, panpipes, whistles, rattles, flutes, and drums which are played in large groups. This colorful music is often accompanied by a slew of brightly dressed dancers performing traditional moves to the melodious Chopin rhythm. A particular dance that has emerged from this reason and has gained international recognition is the Mapiko dance. Performed as the spirit of a dead person, the Mapiko is riveting and sometimes horrifying spectacle.
Throughout Mozambique, artisan skills have been passed down from generation to generation. In many areas, the Mozambique people use their craft skills as a means of support. In recent years, tourism has become an important source of income. Visitors can find a variety of roadside stands offering samples of traditional crafts including beautifully hand-dyed clothing, beaded and shell jewelery, hand-carved wooden boxes. These treasures are a manifestation of the abundant talent, ingenuity, and diverse and unique culture of the Mozambique people.
Overall, Mozambique art and rituals reflect the history of its diverse and complex population. After surviving decades of oppression and war, the Mozambique people have triumphed as one of the most prolific examples of contemporary art and music. Their perseverance and ingenuity is a shining example of the possibilities that can be achieved through maintaining a proud ethnic identity.
Cecelia Owens loves travel and she does freelance writing for the top South African travel comparison website, she also wrote an interesting article about "Wood Carvings in Mozambique" which you can read here.
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