Introduction

Bristol signed a friendship agreement with Beira in Mozambique on 11 December 1990. Developed from the Anti-Apartheid movement in the 80s, the Bristol-Beira partnership has been established with the aim to promote lasting peace and development, and enhance understanding between the two cities.

During the past 15 years, Bristol and Beira have established a strong link through education programmes, cultural events and development work.

Bristol Link with Beira organises projects and activities, promoting understanding of Beira in Bristol and contributing to the development of Beira.

[back to top]

Education

Four local schools Luckwell Primary, Colston Primary, Clifton High School and Henbury Secondary schools are linked with their sister schools in Beira, and carry out initiatives such as teacher exchanges, developing resource materials and joint projects.

[back to top]

Cultural Exchange

Many Mozambican writers, artists, musicians and story-tellers have visited Bristol to bring us the flavour of Mozambican culture and art. For instance, international youth music award winner Djakaa dance group worked with local schools and dance agencies, and renowned author Mia Couto has delivered a talk about his work and the current situation in Mozambique. 

The Throne of Weapons Exhibition at the city museum, featuring a "throne" made of decomissioned weapons collected after the civil war in Mozambique, as well as a series of cultural and educational events around town, was a big sucess in October 2005. 

Bristol welcomed the Beira band Mussodji at the EDF Energy Bristol Harbour Festival in 2007.

[back to top]

Development

A development worker based in Beira is employed by the Bristol Link with Beira to support the development work on the ground. In Bristol, a fundraising walk for Southern Africa takes place annually to support international development project in Beira and the region. Beneficiaries over the past years include grassroots women’s organisation “Amai Musananhi” in Beira, and an HIV/AIDS project in South Africa. The link has also raised funds for the emergency and rehabilitation work in response to the devastating flooding in the Sofala province in 2000. Containers of resources including computers, education and health equipment, school bags have also been collected and delivered to those in need in Beira.

[back to top]

About Beira

Beira, the capital of Sofala province, situated at the eastern end of the “Beira corridor”, is Mozambique's second city. It is an important port, and features beautiful beaches and old architectures. Beira has a population of 500,000 and is the dynamic and vibrant city.

Mozambique has a rich mix of ethnic and cultural backgrounds with 16 languages being spoken. Portuguese is the official language.

Despite the legacy of colonisation and civil war that has left Mozambique one of the poorest countries in the world, the country is experiencing unprecedented economic growth in recent years. Nonetheless, the issues of HIV/AIDS, unpayable debt and the unfair global trade rules are hindering the country’s development.

[back to top]

Contact

Dave Spurgeon

Bristol Link with Beira
Tel: 0117 902 5009
Email: davespurgeon@blueyonder.co.uk

Picture caption: Students and Luckwell Primary school was fascinated by Celso Paco, as the Mozambican musician and story teller impressed the school with his traditional music and stories . Credit: Luckwell Primary School.  Photograph courtesy of Luckwell Primary School.

[back to top]