Limpopo, province, South Africa

Limpopo, province (2011 pop. 5,404,868), 48,554 sq mi (125,754 sq km), NE South Africa. In 1994, under South Africa's post-apartheid constitution, Limpopo was created from the northern portion of the former province of Transvaal. First known as Northern Transvaal, then Northern Province, it was given its present name in 2003. It is bounded by Zimbabwe (N), Mozambique (E), Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and North West provinces (S). and Botswana (W).

The province, which named after the Limpopo River, is in the far northeast of the country. It is in an area of subtopical mixed grasslands and trees, commonly known as “bushveld.” Polokwane is the capital and largest municipality.

Limpopo has abundant mineral resources, including platinum, gold, diamonds, copper, emeralds, and coal. Along with mining, agriculture and tourism are the other economic mainstays. Cattle ranching is important, as is forestry and the raising of fruits and vegetables, coffee, nuts, cotton, and tobacco. The northern portion of Kruger National Park is in the province. The principal languages are Northern Sotho, Tsonga, and Venda.

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