The Effects of External Influence on Intra-State Conflicts in Africa: A Case Study of the Democratic Republic of Congo (1996-2005)

This study explored the evolution and trajectory of the effects of external influence on intrastate conflicts in Africa. It sought to reveal the causes of external forces intervention, the social, political and economic effects of external influence in African conflicts and wars. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used in this study. Library and the internet literature were also used to complement the research findings. The study showed that African states have been subject to the West’s exploitation to the extent that the West has developed at the expense of Africa who has been the provider of most of their materials to fame. It is because of what Africa possesses, that ranges from natural resources to minerals that has perpetuated colonialism and prolonged monopoly from such countries as America, Britain, France and Belgium, among others. More so, these countries have since deceased from operating as countries per se, but rather fund opposition parties, insurgent groups and even use multinational companies to rub the show, causing stirs within their target countries. The end result however, is to loot the available resources at the expense of the host country. Therefore, the study recommends a great deal of diplomatic effort to be invested in attempts to settle conflicts in Africa. Notable successes have been achieved in ending some wars. Wars of liberation from the control of colonial settlers, who after protracted armed struggles, were forced to concede political power and were seeking favourable transition in economic and political arenas. Such examples include Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. This study also recommends that the governments of Africa and that of DRC in particular should put in place social programs aimed at alleviating poverty so that the citizenry is not enticed by monetary rewards and ending up being recruited to join rebel movements. It is as such because it was noted that recruitment of locals by foreign handlers to take part in overthrowing the governments of Africa is based on their disadvantaged social conditions. The improvement of these social conditions therefore helps in eliminating this vulnerability that is exploited by foreign powers.