Complex Solutions to Local Problems

Constructed Narratives and External Intervention in Somalias Crisis

By (author) Jude Cocodia

Publication date:

05 November 2024

Publisher

Anthem Press

Dimensions:

229x153mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781839988196

This book examines Indigenous alternative solutions to the conflict in Somalia that were available prior to the African Union’s (AU) peacekeeping operation – AMISOM. Bearing the long-standing stalemate with Al-Shabaab, this book contends that the AU should retrace its steps and utilise these Indigenous approaches else it would lose out in a protracted war. AMISOM was a product of the extremely biased mainstream/Western narrative that has done great harm on the continent. So it is high time Africans tell their story of what the issues really are and encourage its IGOs to do the same in addressing issues on the continent, Somalia inclusive. The Single Story Thesis was the method of analysis adopted for this book.

Preface; Acknowledgements; List of Abbreviations; 1. Introduction; 2. The International Media and Security in Africa: Doctored Reportage and Dire Outcomes; 3. The Miscalculation of the AU, the Radicalisation of Al-Shabaab; 4. What Should Have Been; 5. Charting Its Course; Post Script. Reflections on Peace in Somaliland 2022–2023; References; Index

“This timely book is based on a critique of international and regional intervention in the Somali crisis by the AU, UN and neighbouring states. Its strength lies in its analysis of the limitations of international intervention in Somalia by pointing to its inability to resolve the crisis. The book poses a critical challenge to the dominant paradigm of conflict resolution and peace intervention, by raising fundamental questions about the hegemonic interests underlining external intervention in Somalia. This forms a well-informed basis for advocating an effective and more viable homegrown alternative to the problematic external interventions. It offers a brilliantly articulated Pan-African perspective on the salience of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms to the quest for building sustainable peace on the continent.” —Cyril Obi, Programme Director, African Peacebuilding Network, Social Science Research Council (SSRC), New York, USA.