Six Months in Mozambique: Lessons from the Field
There are experiences that shift the way we see the world, and my time in Mozambique, working with NOVAFRICA, was one of them. Over six months, I had the privilege of stepping out of academic theories and into the daily realities of local small businesses—witnessing firsthand the struggles of survival, job search, and entrepreneurial decision-making in an environment shaped by uncertainty. It was an intense journey, full of challenges, insights, and moments that will stay with me for a lifetime.
A Hands-On Approach to Research
One of the most demanding yet rewarding aspects of the project was assembling and training a Mozambican field team. We recruited, trained, and worked side by side with 28 incredible individuals, ensuring not just accurate data collection but also a continuous presence on the ground. From visiting bustling markets to analyzing over 1,800 surveys, every step of the process required adaptability, patience, and teamwork.
It quickly became clear that research isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. The micro-entrepreneurs we met weren’t just data points; they were individuals navigating complex decisions about their businesses, their families, and their futures. Their stories added layers of depth to the research, reminding me why development economics must be rooted in real-world experiences, not just statistical models.
The Power of Collaboration
None of this would have been possible without an extraordinary team. A special shoutout to Veronica Guerra—this project would have been impossible without you. And to Priscila De Oliveira, Cátia Batista, Alberto Arlindo, Yolanda Mucavele, Andrea Bellini, and Sarah Istepanian—thank you for your dedication, expertise, and for turning challenges into achievements. This was truly a team effort, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside such talented individuals.
An Unexpected Invitation
Beyond the project itself, one of the most unexpected moments of this journey was receiving an invitation to speak live on SIC Notícias. I had the chance to share my experience witnessing Mozambique’s complex electoral and social crisis unfold. Speaking about it on national television reinforced just how interconnected economic challenges and political instability can be—and how important it is to bring these conversations to a wider audience.
Moving Forward
This experience left me with more than just insights into data and fieldwork—it deepened my understanding of resilience, opportunity, and the challenges of economic development. It showed me the power of research that doesn’t just analyze problems but engages with them directly. As I move forward, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that true impact happens when we step beyond theory and into the realities of the people we seek to understand.
João Carvalho Msc Economics, Nova School of Business and Economics
