This edition of the HORN Bulletin presents four insightful analyses exploring governance, security, and regional integration challenges in the Horn of Africa. The first article, “Federalism and Somalia’s State Building and Nation Building Process: Challenges and Prospects,” critically evaluates federalism’s role in Somalia’s efforts toward governance stabilization and nation-building. It assesses how federalism addresses historical clan divisions and political instability while highlighting obstacles like weak institutions, resource allocation disputes, and inter-clan rivalries, which complicate its implementation and efficacy.
The second article, “From Past to Present: How Leader Personality Shapes Politics and Conflict in the Horn of Africa,” investigates the often-overlooked influence of individual leaders’ personalities on state behavior and conflict dynamics in the region. Through the case study of the 1998 – 2000 Ethiopia Eritrea boarder war and theoretical insights, it underscores how leader-specific traits significantly affect political decision-making processes, conflict escalation, and resolution.
The third article, “AUSSOM and the Future of Somalia: Navigating Challenges Towards Stability,” analyzes the strategic role of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in guiding the nation toward security and political stability. It critically assesses AUSSOM’s current strategies, potential operational gaps, and proposes pathways to enhance Somalia’s long-term stability and sovereignty.
The fourth article, “The Role of Regional Economic Communities on Integration and Cooperation: A Case Study of COMESA – Prospects and Constraints,” examines the effectiveness of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in promoting regional economic integration. It identifies structural challenges, explores opportunities for enhancing trade and economic collaboration, and provides strategic recommendations to strengthen regional economic partnerships and cooperation.
