Institutional Linkages Between Government Institutions and Traditional Leadership in Maroodi Jeex Region, Somaliland

Mohamed Farah Tahar
Independent Researcher | Traditional Elder | Governance Analyst
Hargeisa, Somaliland

Abstract

This article examines the institutional relationship between formal government structures and traditional leadership in the Maroodi Jeex Region of Somaliland. Drawing on qualitative data from interviews with government officials, traditional elders, and civil society actors, the study explores the extent to which traditional authorities are integrated into governance processes beyond conflict resolution. The findings reveal that while traditional leaders play a central role in maintaining social cohesion and legitimacy, their engagement in policy formulation and development planning remains informal and inconsistent. The paper proposes the Somaliland Framework, a hybrid governance model designed to institutionalize collaboration between traditional leadership and government institutions while safeguarding political neutrality. The study contributes to the broader literature on hybrid governance and post-conflict state-building in Africa.

Keywords: Traditional leadership, hybrid governance, Somaliland, Maroodi Jeex, decentralization, institutional integration

1. Introduction

Across much of Africa, traditional leadership continues to coexist with modern state institutions, particularly in post-conflict and fragile governance contexts. Somaliland presents a distinctive case in which customary authority has played a foundational role in peacebuilding, reconciliation, and state formation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Maroodi Jeex Region, the political and administrative heart of Somaliland.

Despite the historical importance of traditional leaders—such as Sultans, Akils, and elders—their role within formal governance structures remains weakly institutionalized. This paper argues that the absence of a clear framework for collaboration limits both governance effectiveness and sustainable development.

1. Literature Review and Theoretical Framework

2.1 Traditional Leadership and Hybrid Governance

Scholars of African governance increasingly recognize hybrid governance systems, where formal state institutions operate alongside customary authorities. Traditional leaders often possess local legitimacy, dispute-resolution capacity, and social trust that formal institutions lack, particularly in rural and peri-urban contexts.

2.2 Somaliland’s Governance Experience

Somaliland’s peacebuilding process relied heavily on clan elders and customary law (xeer), producing a relatively stable political order without extensive external intervention. However, as state institutions expanded, traditional leadership became increasingly marginalized from development planning and policy processes.

2.3 Analytical Framework

This study adopts a hybrid governance framework, analyzing how traditional authority can complement formal institutions through structured cooperation rather than parallel or ad hoc engagement.

1. Methodology

3.1 Research Design

The study employs a qualitative case-study approach, focusing on the Maroodi Jeex Region as a representative administrative and political center.

3.2 Data Collection

Data were collected through:

Semi-structured interviews with 70 stakeholders, including:

Traditional elders

Local and regional government officials

Civil society representatives

Document analysis of governance policies and customary practices

3.3 Data Analysis

Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns related to institutional engagement, legitimacy, political interference, and capacity constraints.

1. Findings

4.1 Limited Institutional Inclusion

Traditional leaders are predominantly engaged during crises—such as land disputes or security incidents—rather than during planning, budgeting, or implementation stages of government programs.

4.2 Political Interference and Neutrality Concerns

The study found increasing politicization of traditional leadership, often driven by electoral competition. This undermines elders’ perceived neutrality and erodes public trust.

4.3 Capacity and Knowledge Gaps

Many traditional leaders lack exposure to constitutional law, decentralization policies, and administrative procedures, restricting their effective participation in formal governance.

1. The Proposed “Somaliland Framework”

To address these challenges, the paper proposes the Somaliland Framework, a structured hybrid governance model based on two institutional pillars:

5.1 Council for Government–Traditional Liaison (CGTL)

A permanent advisory body at regional and district levels tasked with:

Facilitating dialogue between communities and government institutions

Advising on culturally sensitive development policies

Supporting early conflict prevention and mediation

Enhancing public accountability and trust

5.2 Capacity Building and Legal Orientation Program

This program aims to strengthen traditional leadership through:

Training in constitutional law and governance principles

Orientation on public administration and decentralization

Ethical leadership and political neutrality guidelines

1. Discussion

The findings support existing literature on the value of hybrid governance systems in fragile states. Institutionalizing collaboration with traditional leaders—rather than relying on informal engagement—can improve service delivery, reduce conflict, and enhance state legitimacy. However, this must be carefully balanced to prevent elite capture and political manipulation.

1. Limitations of the Study

The study is limited to one region and relies primarily on qualitative data. Future research could incorporate comparative regional analysis or quantitative assessments of governance outcomes.

1. Conclusion

Traditional leadership remains a critical yet underutilized governance resource in Somaliland. By formalizing cooperation through the Somaliland Framework, the Maroodi Jeex Region can strengthen inclusive governance, enhance social cohesion, and promote sustainable development. The study underscores the importance of context-sensitive institutional design in post-conflict governance settings.

References (Sample – Journal can require specific style)

Boege, V., Brown, A., & Clements, K. (2009). Hybrid political orders, not fragile states. Peace Review.

Bradbury, M. (2008). Becoming Somaliland. James Currey.

Logan, C. (2013). The roots of resilience: Exploring popular support for African traditional authorities. African Affairs.

Menkhaus, K. (2006). Governance without government in Somalia. International Security.

Author Note

Mohamed Farah Tahar is an independent researcher and traditional elder with academic training in public administration and governance, specializing in peacebuilding, customary institutions, and state–society relations in Somaliland.