Asian Journal of Public Administration and Law

The Somali shilling: Causes of public distrust and potential solutions

Dayah Abdi Kulmie — 2025-03-14

A weak currency increases trade costs, causing inflation, reducing purchasing power, deterring foreign investment, and causing economic instability and financial uncertainty. A robust local currency strengthens national economic sovereignty. This paper examines the challenges facing the Somali Shilling and explores strategies for rebuilding public trust in the national currency, and analyzes the factors contributing to the currency's depreciation, such as excess currency circulation, limited financial oversight, and the widespread use of foreign currency. The paper reviews the existing literature and highlights that the collapse of Somalia's central government in 1991 destabilized the economy, causing currency devaluation, hyperinflation, and counterfeit activities. It also illustrates the effect of dollarization on the economy and its impact on the Somali Shilling. The paper states that modern money is backed by public trust, indicating that modern currency reflects government trust and citizen credibility. The study recommends restructuring the central bank, promoting economic stability, and addressing counterfeit currency issues. Central banks can strategically manage local currency to stimulate economic growth. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of fostering trust in government institutions and implementing effective policies to enhance the currency's value and stability. By addressing these challenges, Somalia can strengthen its economy and reduce its reliance on foreign currencies.

Prevalence of fraud in private sector of Somalia: Case Mogadishu business firms

Mohamud Dahir Hilif — 2025-03-17

Fraud constitutes a significant challenge within the small business sector, often stemming from personal, group, or organizational incentives. Recent economic instability has likely exacerbated the occurrence of fraud among businesses. This study investigates the prevalence of fraud within the private sector of Mogadishu, Somalia, with the aim of identifying key risk factors and exploring potential mitigation strategies. The primary data was collected from 93 respondents using a questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software. The majority of respondents, 75% men, aged 31-40, and educated, agreed that fraud is unethical and can damage an organization's reputation, with 67.8% expressing it as a major concern, while 93.3% agreeing it's unethical. Additionally, 88.8% believed fraud severely harms an organization's reputation. Further, factors contributing to fraud include personal and institutional pressures, improper management, unsuitable documentation, unclear responsibilities, and abuse of power. Fraud significantly impacts SMEs, affecting profitability, growth, and business credibility, emphasizing the need for improved accountability. The study recommends robust anti-fraud legislation, clear penalties, whistleblower protection, improved governance, and a regulatory body. It also emphasizes public awareness campaigns, internal controls, and improved management practices. Technology can help identify suspicious patterns and secure communication channels to protect sensitive information while fostering a culture of integrity and ethical behavior.

A review on the essential role of judicial training: Objectives, impact, and barriers

Dayah Abdi Kulmie — 2025-06-25

The judiciary stands as a cornerstone of democratic governance and development, entrusted with the critical task of interpreting laws, safeguarding rights, and ensuring justice. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the essential role of judicial training in contemporary societies. It examines the core objectives of such training, including the enhancement of legal competence, the reinforcement of ethical integrity, and the cultivation of adaptability to evolving socio-technological landscapes. Through a critical review of existing literature, the study elucidates the multifaceted impact of judicial training on judicial performance and public trust in the justice system. Furthermore, the paper identifies significant barriers to effective training implementation, encompassing systemic, political, and resource constraints, as well as workplace-specific and individual challenges. These obstacles are often amplified in resource-constrained and post-conflict settings, where judicial training serves a critical role in rebuilding trust and fostering societal stability. The analysis concludes by advocating for sustained investment in and strategic implementation of judicial training initiatives, particularly within contexts characterized by limited resources and the enduring legacy of conflict. Such efforts are deemed essential to ensure that justice systems remain responsive, equitable, and capable of upholding the rule of law amidst the complexities of an ever-evolving global landscape.

Public views on Somalia's East African community membership: A perceptual study

Sharmaarke Abdikadir Ismail — 2025-06-25

This study examines public perceptions in Somalia regarding the nation’s potential membership in the East African Community (EAC), with a focus on awareness, perceived benefits, and anticipated challenges of integration. Using a quantitative cross-sectional descriptive research design, data were collected from 200 respondents through structured questionnaires. The study assessed public awareness of the EAC, perceptions of its significance, and factors influencing attitudes toward membership. The findings indicate moderate public awareness of the EAC; however, a majority of respondents expressed favorable views, recognizing the organization’s potential to promote regional integration, security, and economic development. Simultaneously, concerns were noted regarding possible impacts on political sovereignty, economic inequality, and socio-cultural dynamics, which may hinder effective integration. The study concludes that Somalia’s accession to the EAC holds considerable promise for advancing regional economic growth and political stability. Nonetheless, realizing these benefits requires addressing structural trade barriers, regulatory misalignments, and socio-political obstacles. Accordingly, the study recommends targeted interventions to support successful integration. These include prioritizing infrastructure development, strengthening security cooperation among member states, enacting governance reforms within Somalia to align with EAC standards, and implementing comprehensive public awareness campaigns to build informed public support for regional cooperation and sustained engagement in the integration process.