Abstract
This article examines the negative consequences of clan (or tribal) divisions in Somalia, particularly their contribution to a lack of unity and social cohesion as a national society. After being framed by scholars and practitioners in academia, it discusses the causes, impacts, and enduring fixes to clan-based conflicts, with ensuing policy recommendations for political restructuring, inclusive governance, and Somali identity rebuilding through education, reconciliation, and equitable economic opportunity.
1. Introduction
After the collapse of the Somali central government in 1991, clan-based politics and clan-based conflict drastically hampered the reconstruction of the Somali state. Clans reinforce the quality of interpersonal relationships and well-being (as social security) the Somali community has always relied on and prioritized clan identity over national identity (and damaged the peace, democracy and economic development being sought). This article explores the consequences of tribalism in Somalia and presents educated recommendations for the issues involved.
2. Implications of Clan Violence
2.1 Political Disaggregation Clannism undermines centralized authority and governance. The 4.5 sharing power sharing system of political representation by clan representation entrench entrenched inequality by structurally excluding minority stakeholders (WardheerNews, 2024).
2.2 Economic
Inequity Economic inequity exists along clan lines. Dominant clans disproportionately monopolize access to resources and development opportunities. This systemic exclusion has marginalized resource-poor clans across the landscape and perpetuated inter-clan resentment and hostility.
2.3 Reoccuring acts of Violence
Clan rivalry facilitates cycles of revenge and violence. Inter-clan grievances often escalate to armed confrontations, destabilizing communities and allow for insurgent group formation (e.g., al-Shabaab) based on intra-clan grievances across divided community landscapes (Atlas Institute, 2025).
2.4 Social Identity
Shift Youth born into fragmented social politics have largely adopted ethnocentric views. There is no national narrative to unify citizens, collective identities have been replaced with wrecked suspicion and tribalism.
3. Expert-Supported Options
3.1 Political change
Experts are urging the end of the 4.5 political system and changing to a merit-based, democratic political state. Political reform that moves to one-person-one-vote-type election models will take away the room for broader clan-based favoritism (The Africa Report, 2025).
3.2 Traditional justice and reconciliation
Support strong traditional mediation processes, such as “xeer” (customary law), with respected elders. Support community reconciliation processes to promote healing from longstanding grievances (WardheerNews, 2024).
3.3 Education and civic participation
Explore civic education for schools to support building a national identity and mutual respect for differences. Educational and other programs for young people should promote civic identities and stress the importance of unity while rejecting clan-based discrimination (Atlas Institute, 2025).
3.4 Equitable economic development
Economic development must more equitably promote development for marginalized communities/clans. Developing infrastructure, agriculture, and employment will help close the wealth gap.
3.5 Strengthening civil society
Youth and civil society organizations can offer sustainable measures towards influencing behavior by promoting transparency, accountability, and promoting non-violent discussion across clan lines.
4. Conclusion
Clan divisions in Somalia continue to be one of the key impediments to peace and prosperity. However, it is possible to go beyond tribal affiliations and create a unified Somali state through dedicated reform, broad-based participation in governance initiatives, and continued reconciliation. The way forward requires balancing established customs and contemporary governance to restore trust and collaboration among all Somalis.
References
• WardheerNews. (2024). Tribalism and its challenges to state formation in Somalia.
• The Africa Report. (2025). Somalia: Rising tensions from proposed revisions to the constitution.
• Atlas Institute. (2025). Somalia’s silent struggle: youth, identity, and the future of national unity.
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