Merchants of African conflict: More than just a pound of flesh

Initiatives aimed at addressing the involvement of PMSCs in conflict theatres have thus far also proved to be ineffective.

Despite their tarnished image, private military and security companies (PMSCs) continue to feature in almost every African conflict. Their presence in conflict zones presents a plethora of challenges, as they generally remain unregulated and uncontrolled. Initiatives aimed at addressing the involvement of PMSCs in conflict theatres have thus far also proved to be ineffective. The engagement in vigorous multidisciplinary approaches aimed at championing and improving these initiatives remains critical in addressing the insecurities posed by these merchants of conflict, particularly in Africa. This monograph is intended to make a modest contribution to this complex yet interesting discourse, through various authors presenting diverse and fascinating perspectives.

Edited by: Sabelo Gumedze