Al-Shabaab’s Financial Fortitude: The Link between Funding Strategies and Organizational Resiliency

Abstract

Al-Shabaab poses a serious threat to regional stability and security. Its financial resilience is notable, as the group has maintained its operational capabilities despite increased global counter-terrorism efforts. The ongoing political instability in Somalia, combined with weak governance structures, has created an environment that allows the group to survive and adapt. Theoretical frameworks such as the Reach Theory, the Terror-Crime Nexus Model, and the Market Model provide important insights into Al-Shabaab’s strategies. A critical factor in Al-Shabaab’s effectiveness is its ability to diversify funding sources. The results of this research indicate that the organization’s territorial control is the major source of its funding. A comprehensive understanding of Al-Shabaab’s financial mechanisms is vital for informing policy decisions aimed at disrupting its funding networks.