Population and Demographics
Mozambique's major ethnic groups encompass numerous subgroups with diverse languages, dialects, cultures and histories. Many are linked to similar ethnic groups living in inland countries.
The north-central provinces of Zambezia and Nampula are the most populous, with about 45% of the population. The estimated 4 million Makua are the dominant group in the northern part of the country - the Sena and Shona (mostly Ndau) are prominent in the Zambezi valley, and the Shangaan (Tsonga) dominate in southern Mozambique. Other groups include Makonde, Yao, Swahili, Tonga, Chopi, Shona, and Nguni (including Zulu). There is also a small mestiço minority of Mozambicans with mixed Bantu and Portuguese heritage.
The country has also a small number of Caucasian residents, largely Europeans of Portuguese ancestry. During Portuguese colonial rule, a large minority of Mozambicans of Portuguese descent lived permanently in almost all areas of Mozambique, and Mozambicans with Portuguese citizenship at the time of independence was about 250,000. Most of these left the region after its freedom in 1975. The remaining Caucasians in Mozambique claim heritage from India, Pakistan, Portuguese India and Arab countries. There are also some 7,000 Chinese.
During the colonial era, Christian missionaries were active in Mozambique, and many foreign clergy remain in the country. According to the national census:
- 23.8% of the population is Roman Catholic
- 23.1% are not affiliated with a religion
- 17.8% were cited as Muslims
- 17.5% adhere to Zionism (an African form of Christianity)
- 17.8% were cited as "other"
