The Quirimbas Islands, situated in the western Indian Ocean off northeastern Mozambique, near Pemba, the capital of Cabo Delgado province, consist of around 32 islands, including Ibo, Matemo, Medjumbe, Quirimba, Metundo, Quisiva, Vamizi Island, and Rolas Island, extending to the border of the Tanzanian region of Mtwara. Originally inhabited by Makonde fishing communities, the islands' population grew due to Swahili trading posts and later declined under Portuguese influence during the 16th century. The Portuguese control persisted until Mozambique gained independence in 1975, and today, many of the islands are inhabited. The Quirimbas Islands are renowned for their diving sites, with some reaching depths of up to 400 meters. The Quirimbas National Park, covering an area of 7,500 square kilometers, includes the 11 southernmost islands and was established in 2002 as a protected area. These islands are currently on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, a proposal submitted in 2008.

Quirimbas Islands - Wikipedia