About Book

Beyond Peacebuilding" delves into the concept of empowerment within the context of Mozambique's post-conflict reconstruction. The author traces the evolution of 'empowerment' from its grassroots origins to its adoption in mainstream development discourse. Utilizing a multi-level analytical framework, the book examines how state formation and peacebuilding initiatives have influenced local empowerment opportunities in Mozambique. A focal point is the District Development Fund, commonly known as the '7 million' policy, aimed at poverty alleviation through decentralization. The analysis provides insights into the policy's design, implementation, and its impact on local communities, offering a nuanced understanding of empowerment in post-war settings. Relevance with the Current Era In today's global landscape, where the effectiveness of international aid and development policies is increasingly scrutinized, this book offers valuable perspectives on empowerment and local agency. The critical examination of top-down versus bottom-up approaches in peacebuilding resonates with ongoing debates about sustainable development and the importance of context-specific strategies. Mozambique's experiences, as detailed in the book, serve as a case study for other nations navigating post-conflict recovery, emphasizing the need for policies that genuinely empower local populations rather than imposing external frameworks. "Beyond Peacebuilding" is a significant contribution to the fields of peace studies and international development. Its in-depth analysis of empowerment within Mozambique's post-conflict context challenges conventional peacebuilding paradigms and advocates for more inclusive and locally informed strategies. While the book is academically rigorous, its clear structure and real-world case study make it accessible to both scholars and practitioners. However, readers without a background in development studies or African politics may need to familiarize themselves with certain concepts for full comprehension.