22/04/2026
Sahan Research and Studies Center is pleased to announce the publication of a research article titled "The Role of Climate Change in Shaping Resource Conflicts among Somaliland’s Pastoralists.”
Climate-change-induced droughts, shrinking rangelands, and increasing resource scarcity are intensifying conflicts among pastoralist communities in Somaliland. This study examined how these pressures shape resource-based conflicts, with a particular focus on the Sanaag region.
Using an in-depth qualitative research approach, data were collected over a period of 47 days. A total of 17 experts with extensive knowledge of climate change were purposively selected, including traditional elders, cooperative representatives, local officials, and government authorities such as officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, as well as staff from non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis conducted using MAXQDA software generated seven key themes; four emerged from the interview questions, while three arose from the participants’ responses.
The findings reveal that climate change is intensifying conflicts through increasing water scarcity, deteriorating grazing lands, and community displacement. Many displaced individuals move to nearby settlements, where some become exposed to various social challenges, including substance use. Traditional coping mechanisms, such as seasonal migration, are also weakening due to environmental degradation and fragile social systems.
Some communities have adopted adaptation strategies such as constructing water reservoirs and migrating to areas that still receive rainfall or remain less degraded. However, these movements often lead to disputes between incoming groups and host communities. Others are forced to cut tree branches to feed livestock or undertake involuntary displacement. Water scarcity has also led to violent disputes over wells, reservoirs, and remaining water sources. These pressures are increasing inter-clan tensions and insecurity.
The study concludes that pastoralist adaptation remains fragmented and vulnerable. It calls for integrated responses that strengthen traditional mechanisms while incorporating modern interventions, such as investing in water infrastructure, supporting local conflict resolution, raising climate-change awareness, and enhancing cooperation between government and non-governmental organizations.
This research provides a deeper understanding of the socio-environmental impacts of climate change in arid pastoral regions. It contributes to advancing knowledge on pastoral livelihoods and climate-related conflicts, supporting evidence-based policymaking to address the growing challenges facing rural communities.
PUBLICATION DETAILS:
✨ Authors: Abdulaziz Bashir & Mohamed Abdilahi
Journal: Local Environment: The International Journal of Justice and Sustainability
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Published: 20 April 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2026.2660917
indexed: Scopus and Web of Science
