Threats to the exploration, production and supply of Africa's energy resources

Since the turn of the 21st century, Africa has attracted the attention of policymakers from all over the world, notably the United States, the European Union, China, India, Brazil and Russia. This attention stems from several factors but the most crucial is economics. There is a growing belief among corporate and political decision makers that Africa's largely untapped energy resources could lay the foundation for a long-lasting and mutually beneficial partnership between the continent and the energy markets in Asia, Europe and North America. Africa has thus become the new frontier for the exploration, production and supply of energy. However, the energy industry faces several threats which could individually or collectively undermine the continent's chances of becoming a leading player in the highly strategic global energy market. This article focuses on the dangers facing Africa's burgeoning energy industry. The analysis focus on two key energy resources: crude oil and natural gas.