Journal of Power, Politics & Governance

Grassroots to Government: Examining Peacebuilding, Conflict, Traditional Leadership, and Security Dynamics in Somaliland and the Horn of Africa
Abdisamad H. Mohamed

Abstract
This paper investigates into the complex path of peacebuilding and conflicts in Somaliland, a self-proclaimed sovereign state without international recognition, situated in the volatile Horn of Africa. Through rigorous secondary data analysis and a detailed review of relevant literature, it investigates the contributions of Traditional Leaders, Political Leaders, and Community Participation to the processes of achieving peace and reconciliation after periods of conflict. Indigenous mechanisms and grassroots initiatives are shown to be pivotal in establishing stability and governance, wandering significantly from neighboring approaches. Somaliland’s peace and security approach is divided through an exploration of its historical context, clan dynamics, and local customs. The paper discusses conflict-contributing factors like clan rivalries, resource competition, and colonial legacies. Innovative strategies leading to stability and democratic governance are outlined. Findings disclose a unique blend of traditional conflict resolution and modern state-building efforts. This study advocates for context-specific peace processes, particularly in regions lacking formal recognition and conventional state-building. It enriches the discourse on peace and conflict resolution by providing a detailed case study of Somaliland's navigation from post-conflict recovery to relative peace and stability. The insights from Somaliland's experience contribute to a nuanced understanding of peacebuilding and conflict resolution globally.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jppg.v10a2