Somalia Needs Constructive International Assistance

Mogadishu, 04 Jan 2014 (SDN) – Recent bombings in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu seem to indicate that even though Al Shabab, the banned terrorist group, does not have the support of the people its writ continues to run by the use of terror and mayhem. It is now a source of worry for Somalis, that this outfit which announced its association with Al Qaida in 2012, has now turned its focus from the rural areas of the southern and central parts of the country to focus on wreaking havoc on the cities.

Somalia has ceased to function as a state. To deliver itself from the current problem, it must focus on working with international aid and financial organisations and haul itself back on track to create an environment for change — both for the people and for a stable state. The youth of the country, disillusioned with the apathy of the state, can easily fall prey to terrorist and fundamentalist forces who are looking to recruit to bolster their numbers.

Poverty, unemployment, conflict and basic access to services and infrastructure can prove to be great drivers of the conflict. It tests the resilience of the country and its people. Somalia needs constructive international assistance. The world needs to introduce confidence-building measures for the Somalians and provide them with tools to forge their identity and pursue a stable and prosperous future. Only then will the forces of destruction be kept at bay.

Source: gulfnews