Escalation and Resolution of Border Disputes and Interstate Conflicts in Africa: The Malawi-Tanzania Case

Abstract

Border disputes cause strife worldwide, especially in underdeveloped countries. In Africa, border disputes are commonplace, and they produce bitter conflicts and tribulations. This thesis investigates the border dispute between Malawi and Tanzania over Lake Nyasa. It argues that the protracted dispute is the result of inaction and poor leadership, rather than colonial legacy. Using game theory, this thesis demonstrates that partial sum games produce the best path for resolving this border dispute through communication and cooperation. Furthermore, the thesis argues that the establishment of democracy and rule of law, responsible leadership, and strong political will should create the conditions for successful compromise between the two countries. Without a negotiated settlement, Malawi and Tanzania's border dispute will continue to affect relations between the two countries and deplete natural resources in and around the lake.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA547890

Entities

People

  • Fulgence S. Msafiri

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
  • East Africa
  • Environment
  • Failed States
  • Game Theory
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • Intergovernmental Organizations
  • International Law
  • International Relations
  • National Politics
  • Political Systems
  • Recreation
  • Sociopolitics
  • Topography
  • Treaties
  • United States

Readers

  • East Asian Political and Security Studies within the Soviet Union
  • International Relations, focusing on Korea-Africa and North Korea-South Korea relations, and Nigeria-Latin American Relations.
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.