The Somali diaspora has played a pivotal role in shaping the religious, political, and social landscape of Somalia, with Salafism emerging as a significant influence. Over recent decades, diaspora networks have channeled ideas, funding, and religious teachings into Somalia, contributing to the spread of Salafist ideology. This trend has had wide-ranging effects on Somali society, impacting governance, community values, and security dynamics. Politically, Salafism intersects with the country’s fragile state institutions, influencing local leadership and policy decisions. Socially, it has redefined norms, education, and community structures, while also fueling debates around identity and tradition. Security-wise, the ideology has been linked directly or indirectly to tensions between different factions and increased radicalization risks. Across the Horn of Africa, these changes resonate beyond Somalia’s borders, shaping regional stability and international relations. Understanding the diaspora’s role in promoting Salafism is essential for policymakers, researchers, and community leaders seeking to address both the opportunities and challenges it presents. This analysis sheds light on the complex interplay between migration, religion, and political transformation in Somalia today.
Somalia’s diaspora, estimated at over two million people (12.5% of the population), plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and politics. Remittances alone reached $2 billion in 2019, sustaining millions of households, funding small and medium-sized enterprises, and revitalizing local economies. The return of skilled diaspora professionals, through programs like MiDA, has contributed to rebuilding key institutions such as the Central Bank. However, the political influence of the diaspora has sparked growing controversy. While some technocrats have improved governance, others have been sidelined, co-opted into politics, or promoted into ineffective roles. Under Farmaajo’s administration, diaspora dominance in parliament and the cabinet raised concerns about an emerging “diasporacracy.” Public perception surveys indicate rising tensions, with fears that diaspora elites could deepen social divisions. Despite their exposure to democratic systems abroad, many diaspora politicians have failed to foster transparency or reform, often perpetuating corruption and political dysfunction. Drawing lessons from Afghanistan’s experience with a self-serving diaspora elite, Somalia faces a critical challenge: harnessing the diaspora’s economic and intellectual strengths while curbing the political risks. Achieving this balance requires enlightened leadership, strategic planning, and governance reforms that prioritize inclusivity, accountability, and national unity.