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Impediments and Opportunities for Enhancing Civil Registration Systems in Post-Conflict Somalia (1991- present): A Case of Mogadishu (Data Collected in 2020)

Abstract

This study examines the key impediments to and opportunities for enhancing civil registration systems in Somalia, focusing specifically on the capital city of
255Impediments and Opportunities for…
Mogadishu. Civil registration plays a crucial role in good governance, providing vital population data necessary for policymaking, and ensuring access to essential services such as health, education, and social security. The Somalian civil registration system has been severely hindered by decades of conflict, political instability, and lack of infrastructure, leaving millions without legal identification. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study identifies the institutional, security, and technological challenges impeding civil registration efforts. The findings revealed significant disparities in access to registration services and success across Mogadishu districts, influenced by factors such as security conditions, infrastructure availability, and community engagement. By contrast, this study highlights several opportunities for improvement, including the use of mobile registration units, biometric technology, and community-driven awareness campaigns. The study concluded that a comprehensive strategy is required to address both short-term challenges, such as mobile registration and public education, and long-term investments in digital infrastructure and legal frameworks. Partnerships with international organizations and the private sector are vital for strengthening the civil registration system and ensuring a universal legal identity for all citizens.

Keywords

Civil registration mobile registration public awareness legal identity

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