Mocímboa da Praia 

Province: Cabo Delgado Province, in northern Mozambique, known for its natural gas reserves, coastal biodiversity, and recent security challenges. The province covers 82,625 km² and has a population of approximately 2,320,261 (2017 census).

Population: Mocímboa da Praia District has a population of 90,421 (2007 census), with estimates suggesting growth to around 100,000–110,000 by 2025. The town itself, a municipality since 1998, had about 65,000 residents in 2017. Population density is approximately 25.5 inhabitants per km² in the district, with the town being denser due to its urban core. Growth is around 2–3% annually, slowed by conflict-driven displacement.<grok:render type="render_inline_citation"

Area: The district spans 3,548 km² (1,370 sq mi). The town itself occupies a smaller coastal area, centered around its port and administrative functions.<

Location: Located at approximately 11°20′S 40°21′E in northern Cabo Delgado Province, Mocímboa da Praia lies on the Indian Ocean coast, 127 km south of the Tanzanian border by road. It borders Palma and Nangade Districts to the north, Mueda District to the west, and Macomia and Muidumbe Districts to the south, with the ocean to the east.

History: A key port during Portuguese colonial rule, Mocímboa da Praia facilitated exports and cross-border trade with Tanzania. It hosted a Portuguese military base during the Mozambican War of Independence (1964–1974) and was a safe haven for displaced people during the Civil War (1977–1992). Since 2017, the town has been affected by the Insurgency in Cabo Delgado, with attacks by the Islamic State-linked Ansar al-Sunna, including a major assault in 2020 that temporarily gave militants control. Rwandan forces and regional interventions have since stabilized parts of the area, but risks persist as of 2025.

Economy: The economy relies on fishing, agriculture, and port activities. Fishing yields ~1,000–2,000 tons annually (kingfish, tuna, shrimp), supporting 30–40% of livelihoods. Agriculture includes cassava, maize, and cashew nuts, with ~10,000 small farms district-wide. The port handles trade with Tanzania and supports natural gas logistics. Unemployment is high (~40–50%), with poverty affecting ~60–70% of residents. GDP per capita in Cabo Delgado is ~$500–600 USD (2023 est.), but lower in Mocímboa due to disruptions.

Climate and Environment: Tropical humid climate with annual rainfall of 1,000–1,500 mm, mostly in the wet season (October–April). Temperatures range from 22–31°C. The coastal ecosystem supports coral reefs and mangroves, but overfishing and conflict-related damage pose risks. Conservation efforts focus on marine protection, with ~10% of the coastline under local initiatives.

Infrastructure: The town has a small port handling ~100–200 vessels monthly, a basic airport (Mocímboa da Praia Airport, for small charters), primary schools (~5,000 students district-wide), and a health center. Electricity access is limited (~20–30%, often solar), and mobile coverage (Vodacom/MCel) is inconsistent due to conflict damage. The district has ~500 km of roads, mostly unpaved.

Tourism and Recreation: Tourism is minimal due to security concerns, but the town's coast offers potential for fishing (tuna, kingfish) and beach activities. Nearby islands like Ilha Lipulula have coral reefs for diving. Visitor numbers are low (~1,000–5,000 annually pre-conflict), with basic guesthouses (~$20–50 USD/night). Best time: May–September (dry season). Travel warnings advise caution due to insurgency risks

Distance to Provincial Capital (Pemba): Approximately 230 km by road (4–6 hours driving, depending on conditions). The route follows the N380 highway south through Macomia to Pemba, with sections unpaved and prone to disruption during the rainy season or due to security concerns.

Distance to National Capital (Maputo): Approximately 2,100 km by road (30–35 hours driving). The route uses the EN1 highway south through Nampula, Quelimane, and Beira, then to Maputo. Air travel is preferred, with flights from Pemba to Maputo (via Nampula or Beira, ~3–4 hours). Straight-line distance is ~1,600 km.

Main Road Access: The N380 highway is the primary route, connecting Mocímboa da Praia to Pemba (south) and Palma (north). It is critical for goods and people but has been targeted during insurgent attacks, with occasional closures. Secondary roads to Mueda or the Tanzanian border (127 km) are mostly unpaved, requiring 4x4 vehicles, especially in the rainy season (October–April). Public transport via chapas (minibuses) is limited and costs ~20–50 MZN ($0.32–0.80 USD) to Pemba. No rail access; the nearest airport is in Pemba (POL, 230 km).