| | Thoughtful political science analysis of the plunder of Africa's natural resources is increasingly being taken hostage by journalistic interpretations and NGO reporting and 'expert' commissions. This is particularly true with respect to the DRC. Recent reliable evidence from the Congo is scarce and research policy tends to be dictated by policy agendas. As a consequence, two crucial analytical considerations are often masked. One pertains to regional power politics. The vacuum left by the death of president Mobutu was filled by the Congo's neighbours. Their operations have not resulted into a clear new balance of forces, even if Angola, South Africa and Uganda seem to be the new regional patrons. Diplomatically, Tanzania is an essential 'behind the scenes' player. Because of its mining economy successes, its role may become increasingly important in the future. |
