– Edited by Busani Mpofu & Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni
Africa has long struggled with conflict and insecurity, problems that still jeopardize its growth and stability. The book Security, Conflicts, and Peacebuilding in Africa delves deeply into these topics, offering an in-depth discussion of the causes of insecurity alongside tactics for enduring peace. This volume, which was edited by Busani Mpofu and Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni, integrates critical perspectives on identity-based conflicts, governance, and the function of both classic and modern conflict-resolution approaches to resolving Africa’s safety concerns.
The book examines the historical and modern aspects of African conflicts by drawing on a variety of case studies from across the continent. It explores how colonial legacies, political marginalization, ethnic rivalries, and competition for natural resources all contribute to ongoing tensions. Governance failures continue to be a significant problem, with corruption and weak institutions frequently escalating already-existing divides.
This volume’s critique of foreign intervention in Africa’s security environment is one of its major contributions. Although the African Union, the United Nations, and regional organizations like SADC and ECOWAS have all taken part in peacekeeping missions, their shortcomings are evident. The book looks at cases where outside actions have increased power imbalances or prolonged instability. It makes the case that rather than being dependent on outside parties whose interests might not always coincide with that of the afflicted populace, African countries should assume more responsibility for their security policies and peace initiatives.
The economic aspect of conflicts is another important aspect. Conflicts over precious natural resources like diamonds, minerals, and oil are the main cause of many African wars. The book shows how, as local and foreign actors contend for control, these resources can turn into catalysts for conflict rather than becoming engines of progress. The case studies of the oil-fueled civil war in Sudan, the Niger Delta crisis in Nigeria, and the blood diamond conflict in Sierra Leone highlight the necessity of more robust governance frameworks that guarantee equitable resource distribution and economic inclusion.
The importance of women, young people, and marginalized groups in conflict and rebuilding is also highlighted in the book. Although women have traditionally played a crucial role in African peace initiatives, formal negotiations usually ignore their contributions.
In the same way, young people who are frequently drawn to armed groups as a result of economic deprivation have the capacity to effect change if given the proper opportunity. The authors support policies that emphasize community involvement, work, and education as essential elements of long-term peacebuilding plans.
The writers make the case for a change from reactive conflict management to proactive peacebuilding throughout the entire book. In addition to tackling the direct causes of violence, this calls for the development of robust institutions, inclusive political structures, and regional collaboration. In order to develop long-lasting solutions, the book persuasively argues that African countries must regain their agency in peacebuilding by fusing conventional mediation techniques with modern governance approaches.
About the Editors
Busani Mpofu is a senior researcher at the Archie Mafeje Research Institute (AMRI), College of Graduate Studies, University of South Africa, and a Research Associate in the Human Economy Program, University of Pretoria. His research focuses on African economic history, urbanization, development discourse, and land reform.
Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni is a Professor and Acting Executive Director of the Change Management Unit at the University of South Africa. He is also the founder and coordinator of the Africa Decolonial Research Network (ADERN) and has published extensively on African history, politics, and decolonial thought.
