Experiencing the uncertainty of development: ethnographic notes from central and northern Mozambique

Abstract

In this paper, we critically evaluate the insertion of anthropologists in the field in two locations in central and northern Mozambique, focusing on the negotiation and production of ethnographic data in contexts of uncertainty. The anthropologists entered the field sites of Micaúne and Cóbuè via non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and their existing development projects. During the fieldwork, the researchers developed a relationship of proximity with several participants who positioned the anthropologists as agents of change at the same level as NGO officials. We explore the partnership and negotiation between anthropologists and research participants, reflecting on the challenges of collaboration at a critical time when the economic development of Micaúne and Cóbuè was at stake. This enquiry goes beyond the political or ethical dimension of development to focus on the management of expectations for future change.