Health in Mozambique - Provinces, Districts, and Postos

Provinces, Districts, and Postos

Mozambique is divided into ten provinces (provincias) and one capital city (cidade capital) with provincial status. The provinces are subdivided into 129 districts (distritos). The districts are further divided in 405 "Postos Administrativos" (Administrative Posts) and then into Localidades (Localities), the lowest geographical level of the central state administration. Since 1998, 43 "Municípios" (Municipalities) have been created in Mozambique.

The districts of Mozambique are divided into 405 postos.

Postos administrativos (administrative posts) are the main subdivisions of districts. This name, in use during colonial times, was abolished after independence and was replaced by localidades (localities). However, it was re-established in 1986.

Administrative posts are headed by a Secretários (secretaries), which before independence were called Chefes de Posto (post chiefs).

Administrative posts can be further subdivided into localities, also headed by secretaries.