The extractive industry in Africa has a long and complex history. For better and for worse, the business of exporting of the continent’s minerals, fuels, and other natural resources is an inextricable component of many African economies – and continues to be a major driver of political events in the region. Lately, it seems the news hasn’t been 100% positive. South Africa, a bellwether of African mining, is navigating major economic challenges, with GDP shrinking by -3.2% in the first quarter, representing the biggest drop since the global economic crisis ten years ago. For the past two years, Tanzania has been ... (full story)