Theoretical and Practical Frameworks of Analysis of Pastoral Common Property Regimes in Somalia

Abstract

"The purpose of this paper is to consider an alternative assumption which involves cooperation in individual pastoral behaviour. This approach offers completely different policy implications than the usual Defection Dominant Strategy models, which advocates privatisation of the commons or state control of these resources. This alternative theoretic-game is known as the Assurance Problem. We give a brief presentation of the salient features of this model. This analysis is covered by section II of the paper.

"Secondly, the paper presents an overview of pastoral common properties in Somalia (Nugaal region) as an empirical example of successful efforts to manage such resources. The technical and physical characteristics of Nugaal, a typical dryland area in Somalia, as well as the difficulties and options open to the pastoralists and their livestock are presented. This part is presented and discussed in sections III and IV of the paper.

"Thirdly, the paper offers a useful practical framework of analysis of the pastoral customary common property regimes in Somalia. This framework of analysis is based on the strategies of the above Assurance Problem model. The paper contends that the Assurance Problem's strategies of interdependence, coordination, cooperation, and expectations, found among the pastoralists in Somalia, are necessary to cope with the difficulties of their environment. This analytical framework is presented and discussed in section V of the paper."