Culture and Customs of Mozambique

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

The decades-long civil war ended in 1992 in Mozambique, a southeastern African nation once ruled by the Portuguese The country now attracts foreign investment and has one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. Culture and Customs of Mozambique is a timely overview of an important nation as it rebuilds. The thorough narrative is the most-up-date and authoritative source on Mozambique's society. Ndege covers the land and history and especially clarifies the multiethnic society, which comprises sixteen ethnic groups, most of which are of Bantu origin. Each group speaks its own language, and some clans within each group speak different dialects of the same language. He discusses the migration of these groups into Mozambique from southern Africa and their absorption of disparate and small communities, as well as their diverse cultural customs and practices. Most important, the Zambezi valley, which has for centuries been a meeting place of many different societies, is significant in understanding the nature and pattern of settlement of various ethnic communities in modern-day Mozambique. Readers will learn about the young population and the migration to cities today. The importance of the family and the changes to the family and gender roles brought on by education, urbanization, migration, and religion are discussed. Other coverage includes the role of Islam and Christianity; the importance of art; indigenous, oral, and modern literature and media; a wide range of celebrations and leisure activities; ceremonies and cuisine; unique music and dance; and more.

Reviews

For general readers, Ndege provides an overview of the culture and traditions of Mozambique, with attention to its geography, economy, and politics; religions and worldview; literature; media; art; architecture and housing; cuisine; dress; gender roles, marriage, and family; social customs; and music and dance. Its ethnic diversity yet common cultural elements as well as conflict between the traditional and modern aspects of life, are emphasized. Some B&W photos are included. * Reference & Research Book News *
Joining others in the Culture and Customs of Africa series is a thorough coverage of Mozambique which will be perfect for reports at the middle to high school grade levels. Libraries will find Culture and Customs of Mozambique a popular lend reaching even into general-interest adult collections strong on African history and culture: it provides a strong survey embracing everything from gender roles and world relationships to customs and cultural history. * Midwest Book Review - California Bookwatch *

Author Bio

GEORGE O. NEDGE is Associate Professor of History at St. Louis University.