World Happiness Report for Somalia 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Somalia: na
- Happiness Score Somalia:na
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of Somalia. SO.
Somalia is a country located in the horn of Africa
- known for its nomadic and pastoralist population
- experiencing political instability and conflict
Somalia – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History
Somalia traces its roots to the ancient civilizations that flourished in the Horn of Africa, including the Somali maritime kingdom of Punt, which engaged in trade with ancient Egypt and the Mediterranean region. The region was home to various Cushitic-speaking peoples, including the Somali ancestors who inhabited the northern coastal regions.
Kingdoms and Empires
Over the centuries, various sultanates and kingdoms emerged in Somalia, such as the Ajuran Empire (13th-17th centuries), which dominated the region and facilitated trade across the Indian Ocean. The Adal Sultanate (15th-16th centuries) was a prominent Muslim empire that engaged in conflicts with the Christian Ethiopian Empire.
Colonial Period
In the late 19th century, European powers, including Italy and Britain, established colonial rule over parts of Somalia. The Italian Somaliland and British Somaliland territories were formed, shaping the modern boundaries of Somalia.
Independence and Modern Era
Somalia gained independence in 1960, uniting the former Italian and British Somaliland territories. However, the country faced significant challenges, including a military coup in 1969, the Ogaden War with Ethiopia in 1977-1978, and a devastating civil war that began in 1991, leading to the collapse of the central government and widespread instability.
Current Political Situation
Somalia has been working to rebuild its government and establish stability. The Federal Government of Somalia, formed in 2012, has been striving to extend its authority and address the ongoing conflict with the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab. The country has held several elections, with the latest presidential election occurring in 2022.
International Relations
Somalia has strained relations with its neighbors due to territorial disputes and conflicts. However, it maintains diplomatic ties with various countries and is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union. Somalia has received international aid and support for its efforts towards peace and stability.
Human Development and Economy
Somalia faces significant challenges in human development, with high poverty rates, limited access to education and healthcare, and widespread insecurity. The economy is largely based on agriculture, livestock, and remittances from the Somali diaspora. However, efforts are underway to rebuild infrastructure and promote economic growth.
Cultural Highlights
Somalia boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a predominantly Somali ethnic group and a variety of clans and sub-clans. Islam is the predominant religion, and the Somali language, an Afro-Asiatic language, is widely spoken. Somalia is known for its vibrant oral tradition, including poetry and storytelling.
Challenges and Opportunities
Somalia faces ongoing challenges, including political instability, armed conflicts, poverty, and environmental issues such as droughts and famine. However, the country also has opportunities for growth and development, particularly in sectors like agriculture, livestock, and renewable energy. With continued efforts towards peace, good governance, and international support, Somalia has the potential to overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable development.
Travel Tips for Somalia
Visit with Caution: Due to ongoing security concerns, travel to Somalia should be undertaken with extreme caution and only if necessary. Consult with your government’s travel advisories and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Main facts
1. Location
Somalia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, situated in the easternmost part of the African continent. It borders the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, with geographic coordinates of 10°00′N 49°00′E. Somalia is strategically positioned along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, with a coastline that extends along the Somali Sea.
2. Map References
Somalia is located in Eastern Africa, within the Horn of Africa.
3. Area – Comparative
With a total area of 637,657 sq km, Somalia is slightly smaller than the state of Texas.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Somalia shares land borders with the following countries:
5. Coastline
Somalia has a total coastline of 3,025 km, with its shores along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
6. Maritime Claims
Somalia claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 200 nm
- Contiguous zone: 24 nm
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
7. Climate
Somalia has a hot and arid climate with a tropical monsoon coast in the northeast. The country experiences a dry season from December to March, while the hot and humid rainy season lasts from April to November.
8. Terrain
Somalia’s terrain is predominantly a flat plateau, with a narrow coastal plain along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden. The northern part of the country is dominated by rugged mountains, while the south features a vast semi-arid plateau.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Somalia is Shimbiris (2,416 m), while the lowest point is the Indian Ocean (0 m).
10. Natural Resources
Somalia’s natural resources include uranium and largely unexplored reserves of iron ore, tin, gypsum, bauxite, copper, salt, natural gas, and petroleum.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The major bodies of water in Somalia include:
- Indian Ocean
- Gulf of Aden
- Juba River (shared with Ethiopia)
- Shebelle River
12. Natural Hazards
Somalia is prone to the following natural hazards:
- Recurring droughts
- Frequent dust storms over eastern plains in summer
- Floods during rainy season
13. Geography – Notes
Somalia is strategically situated along the Gulf of Aden, serving as a gateway to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The country’s arid climate and limited natural resources have contributed to challenges in economic development and food security.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 10.00%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 645. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 70.30%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 5.15214946.199616.
- Capital: The capital of Somalia is Mogadishu
- Major Cities:
- Mogadishu – Population: 2,120,000
- Hargeisa – Population: 1,200,000
- Kismayo – Population: 900,000
- Baidoa – Population: 610,000
- Population: 15,442,905
- Area(Km2): 637657
- Population Density( P/Km²):25. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:252
- Official Language(s):Somalia is Somali (official) with 98.9% of the population speaking it.
- Currency: SOS
Main Economic Indicators
Somalia has an economic system driven primarily by agriculture, livestock production, and telecommunications. The country’s economy remains extremely fragile and faces numerous challenges, including widespread poverty, inadequate infrastructure, limited economic opportunities, and persistent conflict. Key economic policies have focused on rebuilding the war-torn nation and establishing a stable economic environment.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 8.2% (Source: CIA World Factbook)
2020: 4.3% (Source: CIA World Factbook)
Credit Ratings
Somalia does not currently have credit ratings from major agencies like Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s.
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 60.2%
Industry: 7.4%
Services: 32.5% (Source: CIA World Factbook, 2017 estimates)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Bananas, sorghum, corn, coconuts, rice, sugarcane, mangoes, sesame seeds, beans, fish
Industrial Products: Light industries (including telecommunications, fishing, textiles, agro-processing)
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 3.89 million (2022 estimate, CIA World Factbook)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Current Account Balance
2021: -$719 million (Source: CIA World Factbook)
2020: -$660 million (Source: CIA World Factbook)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Exports and Imports
Exports: $819 million (2021 estimate, CIA World Factbook)
Key Partners: United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Oman
Main Commodities: Live animals, bananas, meat, fish
Imports: $2.87 billion (2021 estimate, CIA World Factbook)
Key Partners: China, United Arab Emirates, India, Turkey
Main Commodities: Manufactured goods, petroleum products, foodstuffs, construction materials
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $177.9 million (2021 estimate, CIA World Factbook)
Gold Reserves: Not available
- GDP (Current US$):$4,720,727,278. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 0.00%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): . This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $1.41. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 11.35%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
1. National Identity
Nationality: Somali(s)
Adjective: Somali
2. Ethnic Groups
Somali 85%, Bantu and other non-Somali 15% (including Arabs 30,000)
3. Religions
Sunni Muslim 99.8%, other 0.2%
4. Age Structure
0-14 years: 42.79% (male 3,092,495/female 3,022,958)
15-64 years: 54.79% (male 3,898,696/female 3,913,943)
65 years and over: 2.42% (male 149,467/female 194,789) (2020 est.)
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 87.1
Youth dependency ratio: 82.3
Elderly dependency ratio: 4.8
Potential support ratio: 20.8 (2020 est.)
6. Median Age
Total: 18.6 years
Male: 18.3 years
Female: 18.9 years (2020 est.)
7. Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity – adult prevalence rate: 8.3% (2016)
Alcohol consumption: Data unavailable
Tobacco use: Data unavailable
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 57.1. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 37.8%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:41.75. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:12. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 6.3. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 1.7%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 7,034,861. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
Somalia’s military consists of the Somali National Army, which includes land forces, air force, and navy branches. The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) serves as the country’s primary intelligence service. Somalia also has local forces known as Darwish, which act as regional security units.
National Police and Paramilitary Forces
The Somali Police Force is responsible for maintaining law and order within Somalia. Additionally, the government operates the Custodial Corps, a paramilitary force tasked with providing security and protection services.
Military Expenditures
Somalia’s military expenditure as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2018: 0.9%
- 2017: 0.9%
- 2016: 0.9%
- 2015: 0.9%
- 2014: 0.8%
Somalia ranks among the countries with the lowest military spending globally.
Personnel Strengths
Somalia has approximately 24,000 active-duty military personnel, with the breakdown as follows:
- Somali National Army (Land Forces): 20,000
- Somali Air Force: 2,000
- Somali Navy: 2,000
The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has an estimated strength of 5,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Somalia’s military equipment primarily consists of small arms and light weapons, with limited heavy equipment. The inventory includes:
- Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs)
- Towed artillery
- Attack helicopters
- Transport aircraft
Somalia relies heavily on military aid and equipment donations from international partners, with limited domestic production capabilities.
Military Service Age and Obligation
The minimum age for voluntary military service in Somalia is 18 years. There is no mandatory military service obligation.
Military Deployments
Somalia has a contingent of troops deployed as part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), a peacekeeping operation aimed at supporting the Federal Government of Somalia.
Strategic Military Notes
Somalia’s defense strategy primarily focuses on counter-insurgency operations against the militant group Al-Shabaab and securing territorial control. The Somali National Army plays a crucial role in these efforts, supported by AMISOM forces.
Somalia cooperates with international partners, particularly the United States and the United Nations, in combating terrorism and piracy in the region. The country’s military also contributes to regional security efforts through participation in peacekeeping missions.
- Armed Forces Size: 15000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 0.02
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 47.40%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.