Mozambique explained to kids

Mozambique is a country located in southeastern Africa. It is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and Eswatini (Swaziland) and South Africa to the southwest. The capital and largest city is Maputo. Mozambique is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Southern African Development Community. Mozambique has a population of about 30 million people and an area of 801,590 km2 (309,495 sq mi). The official languages of Mozambique are Portuguese and Emakhuwa. Mozambique is a country rich in natural resources, including coal, gas, titanium, and uranium. However, the majority of the population lives in poverty. About 70% of the population is under the age of 30, and Mozambique has one of the highest rates of child mortality in the world. Mozambique was colonized by Portugal in the 16th century. The country achieved independence in 1975, but soon after, a devastating civil war broke out. The war lasted for more than 20 years and left the country in poverty. In 1992, a peace agreement was signed and Mozambique held its first multiparty elections in 1994. Since the end of the war, Mozambique has been working to rebuild its infrastructure and economy. The country has made significant progress in reducing poverty and improving health and education. However, Mozambique is still one of the poorest countries in the world and faces challenges such as high levels of corruption, child mortality, and HIV/AIDS.