Mozambique

This chapter examines religion and health care in Mozambique. The two basic questions are (1) “How does religion factor into the Social Determinants of Health?”; and (2) “What is its connection to outcomes?” The political, economic, health, and religious contexts of Mozambique are reviewed. The country is challenged by persistent poverty and underdevelopment. Mozambique had a Marxist government that suppressed religion. Religion nonetheless influences health care quite significantly in contemporary Mozambique. Christian and Muslim Faith-Based Organizations play an important role in fighting HIV/AIDS and the provision of health care in general. Pentecostalism is rising and plays a controversial role in its engagement with modern medicine. People often seek traditional health care and even combine such visits with more Western-style treatments from health centers and hospitals.