The Private Security Sector in Africa

Abstract

In this monograph, three country case studies are featured: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), South Africa and Uganda. These states present very interesting perspectives of the private security industry, particularly its growth, impact and regulatory frameworks. The contexts in which the industry operates in these countries differ because they are informed largely by social, economic, political and security dynamics. While the case studies cannot be conclusive in their findings for many reasons, they cover the private security industry in these countries, thus enhancing an understanding of the role that its actors play there. These reports are focused on the internal dimension of the private security industry rather than the external one. The findings are therefore country-specific and not necessarily confined to thematic areas. More research is needed, for instance, in understanding the involvement of the industry in African conflicts, peacekeeping missions and...