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Mozambique Zambezia Province

The 10 provinces of Mozambique
The 10 provinces of Mozambique

Zambezia Province Fact Sheet


Zambezia is a province in central Mozambique known for its rich agricultural land and significant river systems.

General Description: Zambezia has a diverse landscape that features lush forests, extensive river valleys, and a picturesque coastline. It's a province with a strong agricultural tradition, with numerous smallholder farms and several large agricultural enterprises contributing to both the local and national economy.

Surface Area: Zambezia covers an area of about 103,478 square kilometers, making it one of the larger provinces in Mozambique.

Geographical Limits:

  • North: It is bordered by the Nampula province.
  • South: To its south lies the Sofala province.
  • West: The Malawi border and the province of Tete form its western limits.
  • East: The province has an extensive Indian Ocean coastline to the east.


Main Cities:

  • Quelimane is the provincial capital and a significant commercial center, with a history of trade and regional importance.
  • Mocuba is another key city, functioning as a transport and agricultural hub in the province.
  • Other notable towns include Milange, Gurué, and Alto Molócuè.


Number of Districts: There are 22 districts in the Zambezia province.

Name of Districts: These districts include Alto Molócuè, Chinde, Derre, Gilé, Gurué, Ile, Inhassunge, Lugela, Luabo, Mocuba, Mopeia, Morrumbala, Mulevala, Namacurra, Namarrói, Nicoadala, Pebane, Quelimane, Alto Molócuè, Milange, Maganja da Costa, and Mocubela.

Climate: Zambezia has a tropical climate with a hot wet season from November to April, and a cool dry season from May to October. The central plains and valleys tend to be hotter, while the areas of higher elevation like Gurué enjoy a more temperate climate.

Population: With a population exceeding five million people, Zambezia is among the most populous provinces in Mozambique.

Languages: While Portuguese is the official language, Zambezia is a linguistically rich region with several local languages spoken, including Chuabo, Lomwe, Sena, and Elomwe.

Major Products: Agriculture is the economic cornerstone of the region, with products like rice, maize, cassava, cashew nuts, and coconut being significant. The province also boasts tea plantations, timber, and fisheries along the coast.

Main Roads: The main roads include the N1 highway that runs north-south, connecting Quelimane with other major cities and provinces, and the EN11 connecting Quelimane to Mocuba and the interior of the province.

Main Airport: Quelimane Airport (Aeroporto de Quelimane), with the IATA code UEL and ICAO code FQQL, serves as the main airport for the province. It handles domestic flights to and from Mozambique's capital, Maputo, and other parts of the country.

Distance from Quelimane City to Capital Maputo by Road: By road, Quelimane is approximately 1,500 kilometers from Maputo. A road trip can take about 24 hours, depending on the conditions of the road and means of travel.

Zambezia's rich soils, broad river basins, and bustling townships give it a unique edge, providing both challenges and opportunities. The province plays a crucial role in the agricultural output of Mozambique, and its blend of cultural heritage, natural resources, and economic potential continues to shape its development within the context of the nation.

Map of Zambezia Province


7-day weather forecast for Zambezia Province

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