This survey was conducted based on a request from the Durable Solutions Unit (DSU) at the Ministry of Planning, Investment, and Economic Development (MoPIED) of Galmudug State of Somalia. The extensive intentions survey fosters a better understanding of the needs, intentions, and plans of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Galmudug. Somalia, including Galmudug State, faces a severe displacement crisis due to decades-long political instability, armed conflicts, and climate-related disasters. As of 2023, the country had over 3.8 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) – and 395,000 of these live in Galmudug. Comprehensive efforts are needed to address the root causes, enhance resilience among affected communities, and promote durable solutions.
The survey draws on responses from 650 households across the districts of Abudwak, Adado, Guri’el, and South Galkacyo and employs a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative household-level data with qualitative insights from focus group discussions and community validation sessions. It provides a robust evidence base that can inform the development of effective policies and programs that promote durable solutions.
The survey findings emphasise the need for comprehensive, context-specific interventions that address the root causes of displacement and bolster the resilience of both IDPs and host communities. Key challenges identified include coordination gaps among stakeholders, socioeconomic vulnerabilities related to land tenure issues, and limited access to livelihood opportunities.
To address these challenges, the report outlines several concrete recommendations for MoPIED and other stakeholders. Among these are the promotion of livelihood opportunities through skills training and support for small businesses, which are expected to improve economic conditions and foster peaceful coexistence. The establishment of a comprehensive Galmudug Housing Policy is also recommended to address shelter and land tenure issues, ensuring displaced populations have access to adequate housing and are safeguarded from forced evictions.
The findings further suggest the development of local integration strategies to enhance social cohesion between IDPs and host communities, which is crucial for fostering community resilience. There is also an emphasis on tailoring programming to the specific needs of displacement-affected communities, with careful consideration of the risks of evictions and vulnerability to secondary displacement.
MoPIED plans to implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework that includes clear indicators, regular data collection, and feedback mechanisms to track progress and inform ongoing interventions. Additionally, MoPIED underscores the importance of further research to gain deeper insights into factors influencing eviction risks, the impact of clan dynamics on social cohesion, and the marginalisation of minority groups in displacement areas.
JIPS assisted the MoPIED of Galmudug State on the intentions survey exercise through remote technical support and advice, including for the formulation of a comprehensive analysis plan and report structure, development of a sampling strategy and methodological approach, facilitation of the validation process, and reviewing the analysis and report. According to the Ministry, JIPS’ support proved instrumental:
“The support provided by JIPS was transformative. The structured analysis plan and report framework enabled us to present our findings effectively, driving actionable insights. The validation workshops, underpinned by JIPS’ expertise, ensured inclusive participation and comprehensive feedback, which enhanced the credibility and acceptance of our outcomes.”
– Director of the Durable Solutions Unit about the value added by JIPS support in conducting the survey
