The 9th Heritage Somalia Policy Conference is currently underway in Dhusamareb, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders in a highly organized public forum. The conference, organized by Heritage Institute for Policy Studies (Heritage Somalia), has attracted politicians, traditional elders, religious leaders, civil society members, professors, and legislators from both federal and federal member state levels, reflecting broad national participation.
The main agenda of the conference focuses on shaping Somalia’s political process and governance structure, which has long been affected by conflict, mistrust, and misunderstandings between the federal government and federal member state leaderships. Participants are examining the roots of these tensions and exploring ways to strengthen cooperation, political dialogue, and institutional trust among key stakeholders.
A central theme of the discussions is the reorganization and modernization of Somalia’s political system, including issues of decentralization and external and local political intervention. While some participants support new reconciliation frameworks and regulatory reforms, others have expressed opposition, arguing that certain proposals may not fully reflect local realities or traditional governance structures.
Both opposition figures and government representatives emphasized the need for a new political roadmap, particularly in preparation for future elections in Somalia. Speakers highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue, agreed electoral timelines, and credible institutions to ensure peaceful and legitimate elections that can strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.
Heritage Somalia organizes such policy forums annually to address political conflicts, promote civic engagement, and advance social and governance research. Each year, the institute publishes policy papers and hosts structured discussions, debates, panel sessions, and question-and-answer forums. As a private, non-partisan think tank, Heritage Somalia aims to foster democracy, federalism, transparency, and accountable leadership in support of Somalia’s long-term unity and stability.