WDM Editorial: Who Can Extinguish the Flame of Violence in Somalia?

Warsame Digital Media
December 18, 2024

From Mogadishu to Jubaland State to Erigavo, a disputed city in the central Sanaag Region of Northeast Somalia, the flames of violence continue to engulf the nation. This chaos is largely instigated and perpetuated by irresponsible authorities at both national and local levels. The absence of a central authority committed to addressing these simmering tensions has led to devastating instability in a country already crippled by decades of conflict. Somalia, under the grip of tinpot dictators who refuse to learn from history, remains a failed state teetering on the brink of collapse.

The modest gains achieved through the resilience of the Somali people and the concerted efforts of the international community are being squandered. Corruption, petty personal politics, and selfish interests have taken precedence over the nation’s survival. Alarmingly, some actors seem intent on returning Somalia to the 1991 mayhem that destroyed the Somali state and displaced hundreds of thousands into refugee camps worldwide. History is repeating itself, with even soldiers of the Somali National Army now seeking asylum in neighboring Kenya. The new warlords of Somalia are profiting immensely from the misery of their people.

If the current leadership of the fledgling Federal Government is not held accountable, the pain and suffering of Somali citizens will only intensify, causing irreversible damage to the nation’s future. The survival of Somalia as a functional state is at stake. The time for action is now.

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Recommendations Moving Forward

1. Strengthen Governance and Accountability
   • The Somali Federal Government must prioritize transparency and accountability at all levels. Independent anti-corruption bodies should be established and empowered to investigate and prosecute corrupt officials.
   • Local and federal authorities must work together to address grievances and ensure equitable resource distribution to prevent regional conflicts.
2. International Community Engagement
   • The international community must reassess its approach to Somalia. Rather than focusing solely on security measures, greater emphasis should be placed on supporting governance reforms, economic development, and humanitarian aid.
   • Donor funds should be closely monitored to ensure they are not siphoned off by corrupt officials or warlords.
3. Empower Civil Society and Media
   • Somali civil society organizations and independent media outlets must be supported to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens and hold leaders accountable.
   • Efforts to protect journalists and activists from intimidation and violence should be prioritized.
4. Address Root Causes of Conflict
   • The government, with international support, should initiate inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders, including clan leaders, regional authorities, and opposition groups, to address the root causes of conflict.
   • Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs for militias and armed groups must be revitalized to reduce the proliferation of weapons.
5. Economic Development and Job Creation
   • Investing in job creation, particularly for youth, is critical to reducing the appeal of joining armed groups.
   • Infrastructure projects and support for local businesses can help rebuild the economy and provide stability.
6. Regional Cooperation
   • Somalia’s neighbors, particularly Kenya, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, must play a constructive role in supporting peace and stability in Somalia.
   • Cross-border initiatives to combat arms smuggling and human trafficking should be strengthened.
7. Protect Displaced Populations
   • The government and international partners must prioritize the protection and support of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees.
   • Long-term solutions, such as resettlement programs and access to education and healthcare, should be implemented to reduce dependency on aid.

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Conclusion

The flames of violence in Somalia will not extinguish themselves. It will require a concerted effort from the Somali government, civil society, the international community, and regional actors to address the root causes of conflict and build a sustainable peace. The Somali people have shown remarkable resilience, but their patience is not infinite. Without urgent and meaningful action, the country risks descending into another cycle of chaos and destruction. The time to act is now—before it is too late.

Warsame Digital Media
December 18, 2024