  This study reevaluates the traditional understanding of the "political
resource curse" by examining the unique impact of energy transition metals,
specifically cobalt, on local-level conflicts in Africa. Contrary to previous
studies that primarily focus on high-value minerals and their political
outcomes resulted from substantial economic revenues, this study investigates
cobalt's influence on local conflict. Despite its strategic importance,
cobalt's limited commercial value presents a unique yet critical case for
analysis. Different with the prevailing view that links mineral reserves with
increased conflict, this research finds that regions rich in cobalt experience
a reduction in conflict. This decrease is attributed to enhanced government
security measures, which are implemented independently of the economic benefits
derived from cobalt as a commodity. The study utilizes a combination of
georeferenced data and a difference-in-difference design to analyze the causal
relationship between cobalt deposits and regional conflict. The findings
suggest that the presence of cobalt deposits leads to enhanced security
interventions by governments, effectively reducing the likelihood of
non-governmental actors taking control of these territories. This pattern
offers a new perspective on the role of energy transition metals in shaping
conflict and governance, highlighting the need to reassess theoretical
frameworks related to the political implications of natural resources with the
ongoing energy revolution.
