Xai-Xai is a city in the south of Mozambique. Until 1975, the city was named João Belo. It is the capital of Gaza Province. As of 2007 it has a population of 116,343.HistoryPortuguese ruleXai-Xai, formerly João Belo, developed in the early 1900s, under Portuguese rule, as a companion port to Lourenço Marques (currently Maputo), though its economic significance was never on par with Mozambique's largest city. Before independence from Portugal in 1975, Xai-Xai was known as João Belo, in the Overseas Province of Mozambique. João Belo grew and developed under Portuguese rule as a port, agricultural and industrial centre (rice and cashew were harvested and processed), a provider of services, including a district hospital and banking, and an administrative centre. Tourism was also important with beaches and hotels. In 1970, the city had 63,949 inhabitants.Post-independence from PortugalIt was hit hard by the 2000 Limpopo floods, with some buildings 3m under water. However, shortly after the waters receded the town was opened for business again.GeographyXai-Xai is located close to the Indian Ocean, on the Limpopo River. It is from the capital, Maputo, and is in a wide, fertile plain where rice is grown. It is at an elevation of.Xai-Xai is situated away from Donguene, away from Macandene, away from Chiluane and away from Tavene.
