Xai-Xai

Xai-Xai () is a city in the south of Mozambique. Until 1975, the city was named João Belo. It is the capital of Gaza Province. As of 2007 it has a population of 116,343.

History

Portuguese rule

Xai-Xai, formerly João Belo, developed in the early 1900s, under Portuguese rule, as a companion port to Lourenço Marques (now Maputo), though its economic significance was never on par with Mozambique's largest city. Before independence from Portugal in 1975, Xai-Xai was known as João Belo, in the Overseas Province of Mozambique. João Belo grew and developed under Portuguese rule as a port, agricultural and industrial centre (rice and cashew were harvested and processed), a provider of services, including a district hospital and banking, and an administrative centre. Tourism was also important with beaches and hotels. In 1970, the city had 63,949 inhabitants.

Post-independence from Portugal

It was hit hard by the 2000 Limpopo floods, caused by four weeks of heavy rainfall accompanying Cyclone Leon-Eline, leaving some buildings under water. However, shortly after the waters receded the town was opened for business again. and in a wide, fertile plain where rice is grown.

Attractions

Xai-Xai is a bustling town with markets, shops, restaurants, bars, petrol stations, banks, and a post office. Xai-Xai Beach, approximately 12 km from Xai-Xai, has been a popular tourist attraction since Mozambican tourism, originally under Portuguese administration, was first developed before 1975.

Demographics

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Xai-Xai Chongoene Airport was inaugurated in 2021 and is served by one airline, LAM Mozambique.

Gallery

Beach in xaixai.jpg|Praia do Xai-Xai

Xai-Xai train station (9493131901).jpg|Xai-Xai train station

Prawns at Xai-Xai market.JPG|Prawns at Xai-Xai market

</gallery>

Sister city

Cascais, Portugal