Gabooye marginalization in Somaliland: Root causes, legacies and social mobility prospect

This thesis examines the underlying causes, and legacies of Gabooye marginalization, and prospects for the social mobility of the Gabooye community in Somalilan. Despite the country's homogeneity in terms of religion, ethnicity, language, and culture, the Gabooye face significant marginalization, emphasizing the necessity for a nuanced understanding of their unique social challenges. Using a qualitative approach grounded in grounded theory methodology, this study collected and analyzed data through interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary analysis. This methodology enables a deep, theory-based comprehension of the marginalization experienced by the Gabooye, focusing on their perspectives and experiences. The marginalization of the Gabooye community can be traced back to historical factors, such as the loss of their societal structures and the adverse consequences of colonial rule. Sociocultural factors include the perpetuation of sacred and evil myths about the Gabooye and widespread clannism that excludes them from social networks. Systemically, they face educational deprivation, occupational marginalization, and urban segregation. These root causes have resulted in enduring legacies, including entrenched social stigmas that isolate the Gabooye and economic disenfranchisement from mainstream economic activities, further perpetuating their poverty and limited access to resources. Politically, they are marginalized, with scarce representation in decision-making processes, reinforcing their lack of influence in public affairs. The prospects for social mobility are constrained by these legacies. However, there is potential for improvement through targeted educational opportunities, economic empowerment initiatives, and enhanced political participation, which could collectively help to break the cycle of marginalization. There is also seemingly social acceptance from other clans towards Gabooye. The marginalization of the Gabooye in Somalilan is a complex issue influenced by historical, sociocultural, and systemic factors that interlock to sustain their exclusion. Addressing this requires comprehensive and inclusive policies that tackle these dimensions simultaneously to enhance the Gabooye's integration and mobility within society.