Paper short abstract:

This paper explores memories and counter-memories of the liberation struggle (1964-1974) in northern Mozambique, and the ways in which these become locally relevant at times of political and social tension.

Paper long abstract:

The Mozambican liberation struggle (1964-1974) fought mostly in the province of Cabo Delgado, in Northern Mozambique, left strong memories and became a part of the imagination and the construction of the country. Part of the population of Cabo Delgado joined Frelimo and fought the Portuguese, while others stayed in Portuguese controlled areas, or escaped to Tanzania. The different experiences of the war are alluded to at present and suggest explanations for past and present group dynamics and diverse experiences of/responses to colonialism. It has been more than 35 years since independence with large numbers of the population being too young to remember the liberation struggle. Consequently, recreating the struggle has become an important part of remembering, re-telling and passing on of national and local history to the younger generation. The representation of the past is often appropriated by the state, and has excluded/silenced alternative perspectives and experiences of those who, while living in the province, did not take part in the struggle.

Based on fieldwork conducted in Northern Mozambique, drawing on participant observation of public celebrations and extensive interviews with Makonde veterans (male and female) of the liberation struggle, and with Mwani who lived in Portuguese controlled towns, I will discuss the importance of memory and story telling in the understanding of past. I will also address tensions surrounding questions of belonging linked with claiming or refusing ownership of local histories.