On February 2, 1895, Marracuene was the site of a decisive battle between Portuguese commander António José Enes and Ronga emperor Gungunyane; the Portuguese defeated the larger Ronga forces by means of repeating rifles and a machine gun.
However, it faced has strong opposition since the late 19th century from Portuguese colonialists and businessmen, notably Theodorico de Sacadura Botte in the provinces of Marracuene and Magude, in Moçambique.
On February 2, 1895, Marracuene was the site of a decisive battle between Portuguese commander António José Enes and Ronga emperor Gungunyane; the Portuguese defeated the Ronga forces by means of repeating rifles and a machine gun.