April 13, 2024

After a thoughtful visit in Zanzibar, Tanzania I was looking forward to a relaxing day in Maputo, Mozambique.

Like most African nations, Mozambique is not without a troubled past.

The Mozambique Civil War was a civil war fought in Mozambique from 1972 until 1992. This war was between the Frelimo government, which was backed by the Soviet Union and Cuba, and the Renamo rebels, which were supported by the United States, South Africa, and Rhodesia. This war was influenced by the Cold War politics of that era. Unfortunately, 13 million Mozambicans died in the fighting many who starved to death due to interrupted food supplies which plagued the country; and an additional 5 million were displaced across the nation. In spite of that past, Mozambique is regarded as one of the friendliest nations in Africa, and the people of its major city, Maputo, greet visitors with open arms.

I know, I have been to Maputo before and have felt firsthand its resident’s warm hospitality.

This easily walkable city greets you with The Maputo Central Rail Station. Known as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world it was designed by Gustave Eiffel, who designed the epic structure of France, The Eiffel Tower.

If you would like to see more of this beautiful structure watch the movie, Blood Money, staring Leonardo Di Caprion, which tells the story of the corrupt diamond industry in Africa. You will never buy a piece of jewelry the same way again!

Maputo is lined with beautiful parks, and as it was Saturday, they were busy with families and just married wedding parties. One was kind enough to pose for a photo.

And I also got a picture of the most stylish guy at the wedding reception.

My ultimate destination was the Feima Market a big, busy well-known “flea market” known for its array of items crafted by local artisans. As I shared, Chongae and I try to avoid souvenir shops, which merchandise offered cannot compare with the rare items found at local markets. Unfortunately, or maybe luckily, many of the items are too large to pack otherwise I would be way too tempted.

Of course, we are surrounded by the young boys trying to sell home grown peanuts. I am certain it is because we are the novelty that pays the $2.00 for the bag of peanuts, but don’t take the peanuts. It was a busy Saturday for these young entrepreneurs, but I was told they were there every day instead of being in school. A very unfortunate reality of being born in a Third World country. Also, I know we were popular because I saw my sweet, generous wife, unbeknownst to her, giving extra money whenever she could along the way. She was like the pied piper of the Femia Market.

As we turned one of the many windy paths, we were both actually startled by someone running toward us. With a big hug, we realized it was Enrique, a vender I had befriended last year. We both could not believe he remembered me! This is one of the many seemingly random connections that delight me during my travels.

Chongae decided to buy a t-shirt to remind us of our day in Maputo, Mozanbique.

Thanks for traveling with us.