1992. 15. Since the establishment of a multiparty democracy four presidential and parliamentary elections have been held. There were three local government elections as part of the decentralization program. 16. It is appropriate to underline the fact that the gains from the 1990 Constitution were further strengthened by the constitutional amendments of 2004. In addition to widening the scope of human rights, the amendments expanded the democratic exercise by providing for provincial assemblies. The first provincial elections were held simultaneously with the fourth general elections in October 2009. C. Demographic Composition 17. Demographic data shows that Mozambique has a population of about 21 854 people.1 Children represent about 50% of the country’s total population. 18. Mozambique’s population is predominantly rural. In cities, population density varies, the city of Maputo recording the highest with about 4 509 inhabitants per square kilometer. The Province of Niassa has the lowest population density with about 9 inhabitants per square kilometer. The country’s average population density is 27 inhabitants per square kilometer. D. Culture and Religion 19. In general, Mozambique’s cultural identity reflects the customs, practices, beliefs and traditional values of each region and population group. To a large extent, in rural areas the population follows traditional beliefs, practices and cults. 20. Culture is an instrument for promoting patriotic awareness and national unity. Songs, dances, poetry, writing and paintings and other cultural manifestations have always played a relevant role in mobilizing Mozambicans in their quest for dignity and development of Mozambican culture. 21. Portuguese is the official language of Mozambique. There is a diversity of national languages consisting of about 40 native languages. The most widely spoken national languages are Emakhuwa, Xichangana, Elomwé, Cisena and Echuwabo. 22. As for religion, a considerable portion of the population follows Catholicism (23.8%) and other religious practices as a result of contacts with the outside world. Islam (17.8%) is also predominant, particularly in the northern region of the country, including the coastal area. It is worth mentioning that Article 12 of the Constitution provides for the principle of secularity and the separation between the State and denominations. Article 12 says denominations shall be free to organize themselves and to worship in compliance with State laws. 1 Information available on the National Statistics Bureau webpage: www.ine.gov.mz Combined Report from the Republic of Mozambique to the ACHPR, 1999-2010 7