Introduction and Context
Somalia has been plagued by extremist violence for decades, with Al-Shabaab and other militant groups staging deadly attacks that terrorise civilians. Markets, schools, mosques, and public gatherings are frequent targets, leaving ordinary people in constant fear. Despite counter-terrorism efforts, extremist networks remain entrenched, creating insecurity that disrupts daily life and development.

The climate of fear has eroded trust in public institutions and fractured communities. For many Somalis, safety is never guaranteed, as the threat of violence looms over every aspect of life. This article explores the roots of extremist attacks, their impact on civilians, and the urgent measures needed to restore peace.


Roots of Extremist Violence
The rise of extremist groups in Somalia is closely linked to the state collapse of the early 1990s, which left a power vacuum exploited by militias and warlords. Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda affiliate, has since established itself as the most powerful insurgent force. Drawing on radical ideology, but also tapping into local grievances, the group recruits among impoverished and marginalised youth.

Clan rivalries, corruption, and foreign intervention have further fuelled extremism. Militants justify attacks as resistance to external influence, but in practice they prey on civilians and exploit instability to expand their control.


Human Impact on Civilians
The human cost of extremist attacks is staggering. Civilians are killed in bombings, caught in crossfire, or displaced from their homes. Markets and schools destroyed by explosions disrupt livelihoods and education. Hospitals and aid workers are also frequent targets, depriving communities of vital care.

Women and children suffer disproportionately. Many are subjected to forced marriages, sexual violence, and indoctrination. Children are recruited as fighters or used as spies, robbing them of their childhoods.

The ever-present threat of violence forces communities to live in fear, limiting freedom of movement and opportunities for normal life.


Regional and International Dimensions
Extremist violence in Somalia destabilises the entire Horn of Africa. Kenya and Ethiopia have experienced deadly cross-border attacks, while piracy linked to extremist networks has threatened international shipping lanes.

The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), recently transitioning to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), has been central in containing Al-Shabaab. However, progress is fragile, with militants adapting quickly to military pressure.

International support remains vital, but without stronger Somali institutions, external interventions risk being unsustainable in the long run.


Accountability, Protection, and Conclusion
Extremist attacks continue to hold civilians hostage in their own country. Protecting the Somali people requires more than military solutions. It demands accountability, governance reform, and community resilience.

Key steps include:
- Strengthening Somali security forces to operate independently of foreign support.
- Expanding education, employment, and youth programmes to reduce vulnerability to recruitment.
- Ensuring justice for victims by prosecuting extremist crimes and addressing corruption.
- Supporting civil society and community-led peacebuilding initiatives.

Until civilians can live without fear, Somalia’s fragile state will remain locked in conflict. Addressing the roots of extremism while protecting human rights is essential to building lasting peace.