Resource Wars in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Introduction

This book demonstrates how Afrocentric approaches, enshrined in African Indigenous knowledge systems, particularly the various expressions of Ubuntu (humanism) – can contribute to engendering peace, security, development, and effective natural resource governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Arguments and Approach

Drawing on over 450 interviews conducted in the DRC, this book argues that neoliberal approaches to peace, security, development, and the governance of minerals and metals have failed. Instead, it contends that transformation should be home‑grown, rooted in people’s cultures and worldviews. By treating those directly impacted by violence and human rights violations as protagonists, this book lays out a path towards de‑escalating violence and advancing national reconstruction processes grounded in Congolese cultures and Indigenous knowledge systems.

Focus and Audience

Afrocentric by design, this book holds the narratives and perceptions of people from the DRC’s battle fronts at its heart. It will be an important read for researchers of African peace, conflict, and security, as well as for policymakers and all those interested in peace and security in Congo and the entire Great Lakes Region of Africa.

About the Author

Evelyn M. Birabwa Namakula is Associate Professor at the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Carleton University. A key aspect of Dr Namakula’s research focuses on resource‑based wars, peace, security, and natural resource extraction.