The New Colonialism: Britain's scramble for Africa's energy and mineral resources

The report reveals the degree to which British companies now control Africa’s key mineral resources, notably gold, platinum, diamonds, copper, oil, gas and coal. It documents how 101 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) — most of them British — have mining operations in 37 sub-Saharan African countries. They collectively control over $1 trillion worth of Africa’s most valuable resources. The UK government has used its power and influence to ensure that British mining companies have access to Africa’s raw materials. This was the case during the colonial period and is still the case today. 

While the scale and scope of the UK’s involvement in the exploitation of Africa’s mineral resources is staggering, so too is the trail of social, environmental and human rights abuses left in its wake.