The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Postcolonial Gambia: Insights from Central Africa's Experience

Recent studies in Central Africa have highlighted the complex interplay between natural resource extraction and political dynamics in postcolonial states. This article aims to draw parallels with similar processes observed there, focusing specifically on The Gambia’s experiences. This analysis employs a comparative case study approach, integrating secondary data from academic sources and government reports to trace the evolution of policies related to natural resource extraction in Gambia over recent decades. Significant themes emerge regarding how centralization versus decentralization affects revenue distribution and environmental protection measures. For instance, there is evidence that decentralized management can lead to more equitable local benefits but may result in less effective regulation. The findings suggest that optimal governance models for natural resource extraction must balance efficiency with sustainability, particularly in the face of potential conflicts between economic development and social welfare. Based on these insights, policymakers are advised to adopt a hybrid approach combining elements from both centralized and decentralized regimes to enhance accountability, transparency, and equitable distribution of resources.