Towards A Fluid And Multiscalar Governance Of Extractive Resources In Africa

Abstract

Political geographies of oil investigate extractive value chains with an emphasis
on governance and scales, analysing the role that territories and especially
spatial networks play in these dynamics. While underlining the limits and
gaps of territorial governance, as it is nowadays theorized and used in the
academic literature, extractive resources, particularly in developing contexts,
call for fluid networks, and multiscalar governance; more flexible and adapted
to changing contexts. This approach leads to networked justice, as a consequent
adaptation of spatial justice to these specific situations. This article points
out, for instance, the geopolitics of pipelines in Africa and its critical role in
transforming the continent, despite its related challenges and conflicts. It
advocates a better governance of extractive resources in Africa. Scholars
have a role to play in this process, helping to analyse critical phenomena and
sensitive dynamics, as well as provide sound policy recommendations.