Regional Natural Resource Governance in Africa : The Political Economy of Sustainable Development

Timely and incisive, this volume explores why the abundant mineral resources of Southern Africa have failed to translate into broad-based development and proposes a new approach to natural resource governance. Focusing on the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the book examines the region’s potential to overcome national-level regulatory weaknesses through stronger regional collaboration. Rich in analysis yet accessible to readers with a basic understanding of the issues, this collection investigates the key challenges facing the extractive sector: illicit financial flows, environmental harm, and insufficient government oversight. It argues that national institutions alone often lack the capacity to hold powerful mining interests accountable, but regional governance could fill this gap. Drawing on comparative insights from East and West Africa, the contributors show how robust, stakeholder-driven regional protocols, designed with input from civil society, communities, governments, and the private sector, can enhance transparency, equity, and sustainability in natural resource management. It underscores the significance of an inclusive, multi-stakeholder governance framework that integrates both state and non-state actors to promote effective and sustainable natural resource management. This book is essential reading for policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, and anyone interested in how Africa can leverage its natural resources for long-term, inclusive growth. It is both a call to action and a roadmap for reimagining natural resource governance through regional cooperation.