standardizing the spelling of Mozambican languages; and selecting the languages that, in each
province or region, shall be introduced into the National Education System and into political, social
and economic life.
Incentives shall be given to projects to produce dictionaries, grammars, manuals and literary and
scientific works in national languages.
The development and expansion of the teaching of Portuguese, as the official language of
Mozambique, shall continue to be encouraged.
4. Artistic creation and performance
Artistic creation and performance are excellent ways of promoting and improving ongoing
communication and dialogue between the various strata of society. They also help to promote the
expression of a people’s identity and to project its image.
The people’s love of their country, spirit of solidarity and creative initiative can be strengthened
in part through the use of their different means of expression, forms and styles, artistic creation and
performance.
Priorities in this area include music, dance, theater and the visual arts.
4.1. Music, dance and theater
Our country has a rich heritage in the fields of music, dance and theater and has produced a
number of renowned artists.
In tandem with research into the various forms of cultural expression, the Government shall
encourage the development of artists and of music, dance and theater in Mozambique, in their various
styles and genres, and shall support their inclusion in the production of modern musical,
choreographical and theatrical works.
The Government’s policy shall encourage the promotion of festivals, competitions and prizes for
the various forms of artistic expression.
4.2. Handicrafts and visual arts
Handicrafts, as a tangible part of the history and culture of the Mozambican people, represent a
valuable heritage that must be protected and developed. The Government shall encourage the setting
up of centers for the production of handicrafts and the continual improvement of techniques and
products, with a view to exhibiting and marketing handicrafts both within and outside the country.
Drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics and other forms of plastic arts shall also be encouraged
and supported. The Government shall therefore support initiatives to set up workshops and art and
handicraft galleries throughout the country.
5. Cultural industries
5.1. Cultural and recreational performances
Performances constitute a form of leisure and entertainment which also contributes to the civic
and patriotic education of citizens. Thus, the Government shall encourage and support the
organization of cultural and recreational performances, as well as the existence of bodies organizing
performances and promoters.
5.2. Cinema and audio visual works
The moving image is an art form and plays an important role in citizens’ education and entertainment.
It is also used as a means of recording, disseminating and conserving images of historical and cultural
interest.