The Black Gold Rush: an opportunity to get Africa out of its impasse?

The article examines the African oil scene set upon by contradictory forces. Oil exploitation stimulates corruption and human rights abuse that hamper development of diversified economies. However, worldwide increase in demand and political uncertainties of the Middle East region are encouraging competition between regimes and oil companies for control of resources. It is concluded that oil must also bring direct benefits to Africa encouraging access to energy sources and by reducing the costs.