In his New Year address, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud pledged to advance constitutional review, improve governance, and strengthen Somalia’s development trajectory. Despite decades of political instability, Somalia’s economy, driven by livestock exports, diaspora investment, and resilient entrepreneurship, has managed to function. However, the benefits remain unevenly distributed, with the wealthy and well-connected reaping most gains while social development, healthcare, education, and environmental conservation lag behind. Somalia’s political landscape remains dominated by fragmented sovereignties and self-interest among elites, undermining inclusive governance. Hybrid governance structures combining elected authorities, clan elders, religious leaders, business figures, and informal brokers deliver some services but often exclude women and minorities. Opportunities exist for cooperation when constituencies align on shared needs such as education, health, and professional development.