Corruption and the Challenges of Good Governance in Somaliland

Corruption is commonly defined as the misuse of public office for private gain, and encompasses a range of practices, including bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, patronage, and state capture. In contrast, good governance refers to the transparent, accountable, equitable, and participatory management of a nation’s resources and affairs to promote development and public welfare. This article investigates the nature, causes, and consequences of corruption in Somaliland, highlighting its profound implications for achieving good governance. Drawing on an extensive review of secondary literature, government reports, and empirical evidence, the study situates Somaliland’s experience within the broader governance-corruption nexus characteristic of fragile and hybrid political systems. The findings reveal that corruption in Somaliland is both a manifestation and a driver of weak governance, arising from limited accountability mechanisms, politicized appointments, fiscal opacity, resource constraints, and the enduring influence of clan-based networks. The coexistence of formal and traditional governance institutions further complicates governance, producing to overlapping mandates and blurred lines of accountability. Consequently, corruption erodes public trust, undermines the rule of law, diminishes transparency, and hampers effective service delivery. The study concludes by recommending comprehensive anti-corruption and institutional reform strategies, that emphasize capacity building, fiscal transparency, participatory accountability, and the harmonization of formal and customary governance frameworks as foundational pillars for advancing sustainable good governance in Somaliland.