Somalis face constant fear and danger as unsettling reality looms over their daily lives

Somalia, located in the Horn of Africa, remains one of the worlds most perilous regions, largely due to the activities of terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda. These groups continue to wreak havoc, terrorizing the local population through extortion and violence. Recent reports by Human Rights Watch indicate that hundreds of lives were lost in 2024, either due to terrorist acts or internal clan conflicts. In many areas, Somalis are confronted with armed checkpoints where terrorists or government soldiers demand bribes, further fueling lawlessness and corruption that is rampant throughout the country.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Somalias situation, calling it "a place where people are just killing each other," and expressed his skepticism about the country's future. He remarked, Somalia is considered by many to be the worst country on Earth, but I havent been there, and I dont plan on visiting anytime soon."

Escalating U.S. Military Actions

Despite the grim reality, the U.S. has ramped up military operations against terrorists in Somalia. U.S. Africa Command, under the Trump administration, has significantly increased airstrikes, surpassing the efforts seen in 2024 under the Biden administration. Notably, on November 25, ISIS-linked militants in the Puntland region were targeted by joint U.S. and Somali forces using drones and helicopters. Additionally, al-Shabab, the al-Qaeda-affiliated group, was struck in the south near Kismayo.

Al-Shababs Control Over Somalia

Bill Roggio, an expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, noted that al-Shabab controls substantial portions of southern and central Somalia. In 2019, reports indicated the group controlled about 25% of the country. As security continues to deteriorate, its likely that this percentage has increased. Within these regions, al-Shabab enforces its radical interpretation of Sharia law, levying taxes, indoctrinating young men, and subjecting civilians to harsh rule.

While larger cities like Mogadishu remain somewhat secure, life in Somalia can vary drastically depending on the region. According to Samatar Talliye, a Mogadishu resident, while the city is booming with new businesses and projects, many areas still suffer under the control of militant groups and lack proper governance.

Improvement in Some Areas, Ongoing Threats in Others

Abdisamad Artan Ahmed, another Mogadishu resident, expressed a different view, claiming that Somalia, especially in urban centers, is currently one of the safest countries in East Africa. However, Human Rights Watch points out that terror attacks are still a frequent occurrence, with high-profile incidents such as an attack on a beach restaurant in August 2024, which left 37 dead and over 200 injured.

Though some improvements have been noted, particularly in Mogadishu, progress is uneven. Rural and southern regions continue to experience regular al-Shabab threats, making day-to-day life in these areas dangerous and uncertain. As Anna Mahjar-Barducci from the Middle East Media Research Institute stated, Somalias safety is fragile, with urban areas showing signs of cautious progress, while rural areas suffer from ongoing instability.

The Daily Struggles of Somalis

Corruption within government institutions exacerbates the situation. Bribery and the need to pay additional fees for basic services are commonplace. According to Mahjar-Barducci, government power is often concentrated in the hands of local leaders, such as governors or mayors, with those in power frequently abusing their positions for personal gain. The widespread influence of armed militias further complicates matters, making it nearly impossible to function without encountering some form of extortion.

Al-Shabab's Financial Grip

Al-Shababs influence is not only military but also financial, as it continues to extract funds from various sectors of Somali society. According to the European Unions Agency for Asylum, al-Shababs annual revenue exceeds $150 million, sourced from extorting businesses, taxing imports, kidnapping for ransom, and even collecting fees on everyday activities such as vehicle registration and water usage.

Tricia Bacon, a former State Department counterterrorism analyst, highlighted that in Somalia, people dont have the luxury of choosing not to fund al-Shabab. The government's inability to protect its citizens from such extortion means that supporting the group is often an unintended consequence of daily life.

Hope Amid Chaos

Despite the overwhelming challenges, many Somalis continue to hold onto hope for change. Talliye noted that people are accustomed to the chaos but are optimistic about the potential for political reform, particularly as Somalia moves towards a one-person, one-vote system. While government corruption remains an issue, some believe that holding politicians accountable could pave the way for a more stable future.

For many in Somalia, the ultimate goal is a life free from fear the ability to live without the threat of militant attacks, to engage in business without intimidation, and to send children to school without concern for their safety. Mahjar-Barducci emphasized that while Somalia may still face substantial challenges, its people demonstrate remarkable resilience, maintaining strong community networks despite the ongoing turmoil.

For now, Somalia remains a country defined by contradictions: urban centers like Mogadishu may show signs of growth and stability, but vast swaths of the country remain under the shadow of violence, corruption, and fear.

Author: Lucas Grant