The Political Economy of Natural Resource Extraction in Central Africa: An African Perspective on Mauritius' Experience

This article examines the political economy of natural resource extraction in Central Africa, with a specific focus on Mauritius as an African case study. A qualitative approach was employed to gather insights from literature reviews, expert interviews, and case study analysis of Mauritius' experience with natural resources. The findings indicate that while Mauritius has experienced significant economic growth due to its resource-rich environment, there is a notable trend towards over-reliance on mining activities which leads to environmental degradation and social inequality. This study concludes that robust regulatory frameworks and equitable stakeholder engagement are essential for achieving sustainable development in Central African countries facing similar challenges. Recommendations include strengthening legal protections, promoting diversified economic strategies, and enhancing community participation in resource management decisions.