How to Pronounce Beira

Meaning and Context

Beira is a pivotal coastal city in central Mozambique, situated in the Sofala Province where the Pungwe River meets the Indian Ocean. Founded as a fortified Portuguese trading post in the late 19th century and officially elevated to city status in 1907, Beira grew into one of Africa's most significant strategic ports, serving as a crucial gateway for landlocked neighbors like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The city is celebrated for its unique architectural heritage, including iconic Art Deco buildings from its colonial past, and its vibrant cultural diversity reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. Despite facing severe challenges from tropical cyclones, such as Cyclone Idai in 2019, Beira remains a resilient economic hub and a key access point for tourists exploring natural attractions like Gorongosa National Park and the pristine beaches of Macuti. Its ongoing urban revitalization and climate adaptation projects underscore its enduring importance to Mozambique's economy and regional trade networks.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The spelling "Beira" is standard and consistent in English and Portuguese, the official language of Mozambique. Common misspellings and typographical errors often arise from phonetic misinterpretations or autocorrect, such as "Biera" (transposing the 'e' and 'i'), "Beirah" (adding an unnecessary 'h'), or "Beiraa" (duplicating the final vowel). In some historical or regional contexts, one might encounter older Portuguese colonial-era references that use diacritics or combined forms, but these are not standard for the modern city. Searches may also be confused with the Portuguese word "beira" meaning "edge" or "verge," though context typically clarifies the reference. Ensuring correct spelling is crucial for effective research, especially regarding disaster reporting and aid coordination following major weather events.

Example Sentences

After the container ship docked at the bustling Port of Beira, the goods began their overland journey to Harare.

Tourists often use Beira as a base before embarking on a safari in the renowned Gorongosa National Park.

The city's iconic Macuti Lighthouse stands as a weathered sentinel overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Following the devastating impact of Cyclone Idai in 2019, international aid agencies coordinated much of their relief efforts through Beira.

The annual Festival da Praia showcases Beira's rich cultural tapestry with vibrant music and dance performances along the coastline.

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