Mozambique: Central bank governor attends inauguration of Metical Square in Quelimane

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Mozambique: Central bank governor attends inauguration of Metical Square in Quelimane

8:07 CAT | 11 Aug 2025

Photo: Banco de Moçambique

On Friday, 8 August, the Governor of the Banco de Moçambique, Rogério Zandamela, attended the inauguration of the Metical Square in Quelimane City, built in partnership with the City Council.

On the occasion, Zandamela stated that “this ceremony carries a particularly special meaning, as it takes place in the same year in which we celebrate the 45th anniversary of our national currency, the Metical, making Quelimane the stage for a living tribute to our sovereignty, economic history, and the wealth that defines us as a Nation.”

The Governor described the construction of the Metical Square in Quelimane, the eighth to be built in the country, as a significant milestone in one of the central bank’s most prestigious social responsibility projects, which aims to establish similar spaces in all provincial capitals. “This initiative sets out to honour the Metical as one of the pillars of our financial and economic autonomy and as a symbol of our national identity,” Zandamela noted.

He further explained that the space was designed to be a true community hub, making it a place for socialising, leisure, and well-being, where cultural and community events, financial literacy activities, physical exercise, reading, or simply relaxing. Every element, he said, was carefully integrated to ensure functionality, safety, and user comfort. “We believe that, for its clear value, the harmony of its spaces, and the comfort it renders, this Square will grow into one of Quelimane’s landmarks, a place for all that fosters interaction, reflection, sharing, and pride in our currency,” Zandamela underscored.

Zandamela wrapped up his address by renewing the Banco de Moçambique’s commitment to its mission of preserving the value of the national currency and promoting a sound, modern, and inclusive financial system. He urged Quelimane residents to make the Square a true symbol of belonging and local pride, to value, preserve, and use it responsibly, ensuring that future generations find in it a venue of remembrance, connection, and collective pride.

Governador-discursando

De-araújo-discursando

For his part, the Mayor of Quelimane, Manuel de Araújo, expressed his appreciation to the Banco de Moçambique, and particularly to the Governor, for the decision to build the Square in the “City of Bicycles.”

Araújo outlined that the project is not only a physical space but also a tribute to national sovereignty and currency, a gift to the people of Quelimane in a year that marks both the 50th anniversary of the country and the issuing bank, as well as the upcoming 83rd anniversary of Quelimane’s elevation to city status on 21 August. He expressed satisfaction with the amenities provided, the historical legacy it conveys about the national currency and the central bank’s role for communities and future generations, and equally called for its preservation.

The Metical Square of Quelimane spans just over 4,000 m² and is strategically located along one of the city’s main avenues, surrounded by historical buildings that give it privileged access. It includes, among other features, public restrooms, a community hall, concrete benches and tables, a fully equipped exercise area, internal walkways paved with blocks, ramps and stairs, landscaped green areas with grass and trees, enhanced public lighting, waste bins for solid refuse, perimeter sidewalks, and continuous red paving to facilitate circulation and universal accessibility.

In attendance at the event on behalf of the Banco de Moçambique were Board Members Gertrudes Tovela and Silvina de Abreu, Adviser and Director of the Governor’s Office Luísa Navele, as well as managers and technical staff. The Quelimane City Council was represented by senior officials and technical staff.

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