Damtew Teferra, Ph.D.

Introduction

Multinational corporations are expanding in Africa, attracted by massive raw material reserves and burgeoning business and economic opportunities. Africa is the most naturally endowed continent in the world and the list of organizations engaged in exploring her resources is long. Oil, diamonds, gold, coltan, and copper, among other resources, draw diverse business interests from around the world. At the same time, Africa represents an expanding market, importing everything from books to electronics, beverages to textiles, automobiles to arms.

As part of their corporate responsibilities, multinational corporations are known to commit considerable resources to institution building in their respective “home” countries. Their motivations include tax benefits, enhanced public image, and a bona fide desire to contribute to social and economic advancement.

To what extent have these organizations been willing and interested to fulfill their corporate social responsibilities beyond their home countries?