Formally established as one of the Federal Member States (FMS) in Somalia in 2014, the Southwest State of Somalia has since been facing multifaceted state-building challenges, including persistent political instability, electoral process disputes, economic hardships, insecurity, governance and decentralization hurdles, and conflicts among clans over power struggles and resource allocation, which frequently lead to violent confrontations, impeding state development.

In 2023 and 2024, several areas within the state witnessed clashes among inhabitants and clans, resulting in armed conflicts and losses. Additionally, the state faces recurring natural disasters such as droughts and floods, exacerbated by climate change. Access barriers between districts, due to the widespread presence and control of most parts of the state by al-Shabaab, further complicate governance and development efforts, as well as the state’s ability to deliver necessary services.

Thus, the IRAD Institute conducts a series of studies to examine and analyze the underlying causes of these multifaceted challenges and conflicts in the state. The first of these studies addresses the conflicts that erupted in Diinsoor from August 2023. The study revealed that similar patterns and motives underlie all reported conflicts in the state, albeit with different actors involved, necessitating urgent attention. The paper recommends promoting community-led initiatives for reconciliation and conflict resolution by maintaining and sustaining an effective district formation process.

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