Abstract

Accounting for one third of the world's mineral reserves, Africa currently attracts one quarter of the world's foreign direct investment. However, the high concentrations of natural resources can in turn provide fuel for underlying conflict, particularly in countries with already weakened governance systems. Unequal distribution of profits, frustration at environmental damage or boundary disputes triggered by resource exploitation can lead to a vicious cycle of conflict and insecurity. Furthermore, in situations of insurgency, the struggle by each party to take control of ...