Today, June 17, the Governor of the Banco de Moçambique, Rogério Zandamela, and the Chairman of the Pemba City Council, Florete Motarua, inaugurated the Metical Square in Pemba.The construction of this square falls under the initiative of the Banco de Moçambique (BM) of contributing to the appreciation of the Metical, one of the symbols of our achievements, history and national identity.

In his speech, the GBM stated that, given the infrastructure's seaside location, it demanded strict observance of environmental sustainability standards, noting that corals and natural soil unevenness had been maintained. Zandamela added that the erection of the square comprised the “setting up of a cushion of stones under the paths, so as to improve drainage of rainwater, and the planting of palm trees, casuarinas, cacti and other local vegetation, in order to prevent erosion”.

The GBM also noted that the ceremony took place one day after the celebration of the Metical, and stressed that “our currency is one of the symbols of our sovereignty, so we must take this opportunity to urge all to continue to conserve the currency properly, so as to save the already scarce financial resources used for its production”.

Wrapping up, Rogério Zandamela stated that the appreciation and regional competitiveness of the national currency will depend on the selfless devotion and hard work by all, for only this way will it be possible to keep increasing levels of production, productivity and the quality of our products and services, fostering financial inclusion and the desired sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

For his part, the Pemba Mayor, Florete Motarua, said that the majestic Metical Square represents the seamless relationship between the city council and the central bank, founded on the end goal of preserving and appreciating the Metical, while providing a recreational and leisure space for citizens. Motarua then stated that the act also represents the commitment with the preservation of history and, ultimately, with developing Mozambique.

It should be noted that the square was erected at a location which found itself in an advanced state of degradation, and the Metical Square construction works contributed towards providing it with greater resilience to the effects of climate change.

BM Board Members, Felisberto Navalha and Silvina de Abreu, and Advisors, Graça Chongo and Esperança Majimeja, the City's Administrator, Joaquina Nordino, Directors, Managers and Staff Members of both entities, as well as other guests, attended the event.