ABSTRACT
This article explores the impact of contextual fragility on development in practice in the context of partnership working. The utilisation of oppressive legislation and stringent registration for CSOs by a state fearful of losing political hegemony resulted in limited community participation and CBO reluctance to engage in advocacy activities deemed political despite northern partner eagerness. Financial distress led to a partnership termination, partial and non-implementation of some development activities. Utilising contextual analysis to unmask the heterogeneous nature of fragile contexts can be a valuable starting point in capturing unique complexities and irregularities in each context to inform programme planning.
Notes on contributor
Cathrine Madziva is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at London Metropolitan University. She has an interest in North-South development partnerships, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.