The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Central Africa from an Indigenous Perspective

Natural resource extraction in Central Africa has been a subject of significant interest for decades, with varying impacts on local communities and national economies. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival data analysis to document and analyse indigenous perceptions and experiences related to natural resource management and governance. Indigenous communities in the study region expressed strong dissatisfaction with the lack of meaningful participation in decision-making processes concerning resource exploitation activities. This was evident in a proportion of 75% of interviews conducted. The study highlights the need for greater inclusivity and transparency in natural resource management policies to ensure equitable benefits for local populations. Policy makers should prioritise community engagement strategies that incorporate indigenous knowledge, thereby fostering sustainable development outcomes.