In this context, the concept of a museum is that of a space for conservation, research and
communication of our cultural and natural heritage. In addition to conservation work, this concept
encompasses the scientific interpretation of the informative value of our natural and cultural heritage,
as well as its communication by means of documented exhibitions of interest to the community and
activities such as publications, lecture series, audiovisual sessions, workshops and other educational
programs.
The Government’s policy shall encourage the improvement and expansion of the network of
national, regional and specialized museums, whether or not they are under the administrative
supervision of the State. Moreover, one particular priority within the framework of the Government’s
Cultural Policy shall also be the institutionalization of existing museums that have not yet been
institutionalized. Efforts will also be made to support initiatives launched by the various economic
and social sectors to set up new museums and at provincial level, an information and coordination
system shall be created between the bodies which carry out activities in the field of museology, and
the standards to be upheld shall be established.
3.2.3. Archives
The function of archives is to collect, process, conserve and disseminate documents, chiefly
primary documents stored on different kinds of media.
The Government shall support the activities of the existing archives and shall encourage the
creation of other archives, both general and specialized, at the national and local levels.
3.2.4. Distinctive elements of local culture: folklore, typical costume and cuisine
Style of dress and eating habits are among the most striking of a people’s distinctive
characteristics. Owing to Mozambique’s vast expanse of territory and the intermingling of different
peoples and civilizations there over the centuries, Mozambique boasts a wide variety of costumes and
cooking styles.
The Government shall foster research on and the promotion of local costumes, and shall
encourage their use both as a source of inspiration for stylists and as a product for the national and
international markets.
The Government shall likewise encourage and support initiatives designed to develop and exploit
Mozambique’s national food and drink, including by means of their industrial production.
3.2.5. Traditional rituals, beliefs, medicine and power
Traditional medicine is an area in which therapeutic, ritual, symbolic and magical and religious
aspects interact. These practices also contribute to the maintenance and restoration of social
equilibrium. A large proportion of the population depends on these practices, often employing them in
tandem with modern medicine.
The traditional authorities, together with the priests of magical and religious cults and the holders
of knowledge concerning traditional medicine, are among the guarantors of social stability and
harmony in many communities.
The Government shall acknowledge and develop the participation of the traditional authorities in
the management of cultural heritage and shall promote research into these areas of knowledge and
their inclusion in public administration and in modern medicine.
3.2.6. National languages
National languages are an important heritage as they are the main repository of national traditions
and the main vehicle for their expression. They are the communication tool of the majority of
Mozambicans and a crucial element in the involvement of citizens in social, economic and political
life.
The actions to be undertaken in this field, based on close cooperation between the relevant
institutions and departments, include the following: the development of the social value of languages;
supporting existing and future centers for the study of Mozambican languages; codifying and