Maputo - An earthquake of a magnitude and epicentre not yet determined hit the district of Angoche, in the northern Mozambican province of Nampula on Friday, injuring 59 people.

According to the independent television station STV, besides the injured people, the quake also damaged several buildings, including the local registry office.

Angoche mayor Americo Adamugy, cited by Radio Mozambique, said the earthquake had caused no fatalities.

This earthquake comes a few days after a small tremor hit Chimoio, the capital of the central province of Manica, and some surrounding districts.

Recorded at about 14:00 hours on 30 March, the Manica quake lasted 30 seconds, and was of a magnitude of four on the Richter scale. It did no significant damage, but shook some buildings and caused panic among local residents.

There are seven seismographic stations in Mozambique, but breakdowns in equipment mean that they not working adequately. The spare parts needed are expensive and must be imported from South Africa.