Peacekeeping and SSR in Somalia

SSR/DDR is Key to Reverse the Cycle of Violence in Somalia

The African Mission in Somalia/AMISOM/ conducts limited civil-military assistance projects including the delivery of water, and medical services to the population in the war ravaged capital of Somalia. Indeed, AMISOM’s major achievement is in the area of civil-military relations than actual combat in the context of peacekeeping operations. This is both thrilling and discomforting. Thrilling simply because AMISOM is providing support to the civilian population in Mogadishu. Discomforting because the African force is not engaged in SSR and DDR in a serious and meaningful way. A major weakness in the strategic planning of peace support operation in Somalia is the lack of a strong SSR, particularly DDR component.

In Somalia, there has been a dire need for Security Sector Reform/SSR/and Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration/DDR/ which arises from the imperative of restoring security, a prerequisite for sustainable peace and development. There is always a propensity towards violent conflict when there has been violence before. Chad and Somalia are perfect examples. This is not only about weaponry or logistics; it is also about militarized political culture. One of the first and most important things needed in a protracted conflict such as Somalia was DDR. DDR, mainly reintegration of former combatants facing livelihood crisis is key to the restoration of security and successful transition in Somalia.DDR could be a tipping point.