The Somali conflict and its security implications to the horn of Africa Between 1990 and 2004.
Abstract
This paper is set to analyze Somalia as a collapsed state between 1990 and 2004 and explore the
protracted conflict situation despite diverse conflict management efforts in the relatively
homogeneous community. The Somali people live in an egalitarian society and are inherently
individualistic with little regard for amorphous communal authorities and initiatives. This study
wishes to connect this view with elements of capitalists' modernity, which includes urbanism,
individualism, and private enterprise in fierce competition for survival. It is interesting to try
attributing this to reasons why no solution has been reached considering that 14 conferences have
so far been held about the Somalia Peace process. Thus, is the Westphalian nation-state still
relevant to the individualistic society?
Identifying key issues and actors pertinent to the conflict and review is to be tried. Further
interrelations between these a ctors and interested parties are c on'[lict prone and t his as expected
adversely impacts on security concerns of the Horn of Africa. The Horn of Africa region is in the
process of regional security co-operation through IGAD initiatives that conform to setting the
ultimate environment for global security. The Somalia conflict has a spill over effect that frustrates
these security initiatives and sets issues that require to be addressed urgently and collectively.
Internationalization of conflict recognizes the spill over effect of conflict and resultant security
implications in the Horn of Africa. Should IGAD initiate moves th•r..ough the recently established
CERWARN (Conflict Early Warning System) mechanism to identify " potential sources of insecurity
\I
and to facilitate collective and timely pre-emptive action?
Citation
Post Graduate Diploma in Strategic StudiesPublisher
University of Nairobi College of Humanities and Social Science