Somalia : instability, conflict, and federalism

Abstract

This study examines genesis of the Somali instability and causes of the protracted conflicts in the country. It also explores the compatibilty of clan and state in Somalia. In the proposed federalism state of the country is analyzed as to wether it can advance peace in Somalia. Qualitative interviews were conducted for answering these questions. The study argues that genesis of continued instability in Somalia to lie in the colonial legacy in the country, Ogaden war debacle, cold war politics, and proxy wars perpetuated by external actors. Meanwhile, clan and clannism contestation over power and resources, illiteracy as well as ideology of (Al-Shabaab) combined have contributed the sustainability of conflicts in Somalia