I know that this is a little old, but I still thought it was important to mention. So why is a document about clarifying the rules for private military and security companies important? My answer is because it helps to legitimize the industry and gives us all a framework of rules to operate by in the various war zones out there. Wether or not this document is effective in keeping the companies in line is up for debate, but it is a start. And I think what this document is really useful for, is getting the various companies and countries and agencies talking about the subject and consolidating the rules that apply to the industry. In essence, to make everyone happy so they can talk about the next step of utilizing the services of these companies. So talking is good for everyone.
There is no question that the industry would like to be more involved in Africa, and especially with the advent of AFRICOM(US Africa Command). But Africa has some history with shady mercenary operations. The international community has had some resistance to allowing anything that resembles a mercenary force to operate in Africa because of this history, and that is what the industry is up against now.