Theoretical framework on the oil leadership of multinationals TOME2: Dependence eastern DRC Mombasa and Dar es Salaam corridors

By synthesising all the theoretical concepts - dependency, resource curse, energy sovereignty - and identifying the shortcomings in the literature, this chapter provides a coherent overview of the mechanisms at play in the oil sector in the Great Lakes region. This naturally leads to the development of research hypotheses, the main one being that dependence on corridors is maintained by transnational economic interests and that regional instability benefits those involved in controlling logistics infrastructure. Sub-hypotheses can then specify the dimensions relating to state policies, the influence of private actors, and regional interdependencies. Shamavu summarises the main theoretical contributions and lessons learned from previous studies, while establishing a smooth transition to the empirical analysis and methodology that will be developed in the following chapters. Shamavu thus provides a robust and critical theoretical basis, which is essential for understanding and analysing in depth the issues of energy dependence and petroleum product supply.