Bilene & Macia

Bilene Macia, Mozambique: Key Facts and Numbers

• Province: Gaza Province, located in southern Mozambique, known for its agricultural economy and coastal tourism. The province covers 75,709 km² and has a population of approximately 1,422,460 (2017 census), the least populous in Mozambique.

• Population: Bilene Macia District has a population of 151,911 (2007 census), with estimates suggesting growth to around 170,000 by 2025 due to tourism and migration. The village itself is smaller, with an estimated 10,000–20,000 residents. The district's population density is approximately 70 inhabitants per km², reflecting a mix of urban and rural areas.

• Area: The district spans 2,157 km² (833 sq mi), relatively small compared to Gaza Province's total area. The village itself occupies a compact area, centered around the Uembje Lagoon and nearby coastline.

• Location: Situated at approximately 24°15′S 33°15′E in the southern part of Gaza Province, Bilene Macia borders Chókwè District to the north, Xai-Xai District to the east, Magude District (Maputo Province) to the west, and the Indian Ocean to the south. The village lies on the shores of the Uembje Lagoon, separated from the ocean by a sandy ridge, with three permanent lakes (Chuali, Pave, Sacative) in the district.

• History: Historically part of the Gaza Empire (19th century), Bilene Macia was a minor trading post during Portuguese colonial rule. It gained prominence post-independence (1975) as a tourism hub, with the village of Praia do Bilene becoming a municipality in 2013. The area was minimally affected by the Mozambican Civil War but faced recovery challenges from the 2000 floods

• Economy: The local economy is driven by agriculture (70% of households), with crops like corn, cassava, cowpeas, peanuts, and sweet potatoes grown on 30,000 farms averaging 1.5 hectares. Tourism contributes significantly, with 165 lodges (102 operational) offering beachfront stays, water sports (kite surfing, fishing, kayaking), and quad biking. The village supports cross-border trade with South Africa, with a GDP per capita of ~$400–500 USD (2023 est.).

• Climate and Environment: Tropical climate with semi-arid interior (500–800 mm annual rainfall) and humid coastal areas (~1,500 mm). Temperatures range from 20–32°C. The district's rivers (Komati and Munhuane) and lagoon face overfishing risks, but conservation efforts protect coastal ecosystems.

• Infrastructure: Amenities include a fuel station, basic shops, a market, and Aeroporto de Bilene for small chartered flights. Electricity access is limited (3% of households), with solar power common. Mobile coverage (Vodacom/MCel) is reliable near the village. Schools serve ~15,000 students district-wide, with one health center in Bilene 180 km by road (2.5–3.5 hours driving, depending on conditions). The route follows the EN1 highway north from Bilene to Macia (32 km), then east to Xai-Xai.

• Tourism and Recreation: Bilene is renowned for its shallow, warm Uembje Lagoon, ideal for swimming, kite surfing, and fishing (kingfish, barracuda). The nearby ocean beach, accessible by speedboat, offers snorkeling and diving. Lodges like San Martinho Beach Club and Tenda Tora provide self-catering stays (~$50–150 USD/night). Annual visitors number ~50,000–100,000, mostly from South Africa. Best time: May–October (dry season).

• Challenges and Recent Notes (as of 2025): The village faces overfishing and coastal erosion risks, with conservation efforts ongoing. Poverty affects ~50–60% of residents, and infrastructure lags (limited healthcare, one clinic). Tourism growth, boosted by South African visitors, supports jobs, with 2024–2025 road upgrades improving access. The area remains stable, unlike northern Mozambique.

Getting There: Distances and Road Access

• Distance to National Capital (Maputo): Approximately 180 km by road (2–3 hours driving). The EN1 highway connects Bilene directly to Maputo via Macia, with two tollgates (Marracuene and Matola, payable in Meticais). The route is well-paved, making it accessible for 2WD vehicles

• Main Road Access: The EN1 highway is the primary route, linking Bilene to Maputo (south) and Xai-Xai (north). From Macia, a 32 km paved road leads to Bilene village, signposted for Praia do Bilene. Secondary roads to the lagoon and beach are passable but may require 4x4 in the rainy season (November–March). Public transport includes chapas (minibuses) from Maputo or Xai-Xai, costing ~5–15 MZN ($0.08–0.24 USD). No rail access; the nearest airport is Xai-Xai (VJB, 45.3 km) or Maputo (MPM, 104.5 km).