Fragmented Governance in Somalia: Understanding Justice and Security through Galkayo and Kismayo

Authors: Nisar Majid, Khalif Abdirahman and Marika Theros

This policy brief examines justice and security in Somalia through the lens of fragmented peace-conflict spaces, drawing on the PeaceRep PA-X Local database analysis by Christine Bell and Laura Wise. Their research highlights how failed national peace processes have led to new sub-national dynamics of peace and conflict, necessitating more nuanced policy responses.

Focusing on Kismayo and Galkayo, two key urban centres with distinct political and security landscapes, this brief explores their governance structures, justice mechanisms, and broader regional and transnational influences. Kismayo, under Jubbaland administration, exhibits centralised control with a structured security apparatus, whereas Galkayo remains a contested space requiring ongoing negotiation between Puntland and Galmudug authorities. Both towns also serve as strategic trade corridors, further shaping their justice and security dynamics.

This brief, based on research conducted under PeaceRep Somalia and its predecessor, the Conflict Research Programme (CRP), underscores the importance of localised peace and security interventions. By understanding these fragmented spaces, policymakers can develop more effective strategies that go beyond elite-level settlements to foster sustainable stability and governance in Somalia.

This policy brief accompanies a longer report on the same topic: Mapping the Fragments – Justice and Security in Somalia: Galkayo and Kismayo

Explore all PeaceRep Somalia research