Research & Diagnostics

In the complex landscape of a recovering state, anti-corruption efforts cannot succeed on intent alone; they must be guided by rigorous, localized data. Our Research & Diagnostics act as the “Intelligence Unit” of TSI. We move the national discourse from anecdotal criticism to evidence-based advocacy. By diagnosing the structural root causes of corruption, we provide the Federal Government and international partners with the roadmap required to transition from fragile governance to institutional stability.

Core Strategic Workstreams

1. Political Economy & Root Cause Analysis

We look beyond surface-level bribery to investigate the underlying incentives that fuel the “political marketplace.” Our research identifies how informal power structures and resource distribution patterns create systemic vulnerabilities. Utilizing multi-methodological approaches, including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with local communities to capture ground-level perceptions often missed by quantitative data.

2. Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (IACC) Strengthening

We provide the technical diagnostics needed to build a functional IACC. This involves “Capability Audits” that assess legislative mandates, staffing, and budget autonomy. We compare local performance against regional peers to provide a roadmap for achieving international compliance standards.

3. Sectoral Deep Dives

We conduct specialized vulnerability mapping in high-risk sectors:

Humanitarian Aid: Mapping “gatekeeping” and diversion risks.
Extractives: Ensuring transparency in the “Blue Economy” and emerging oil/gas licensing.
Infrastructure: Identifying choke points in public works and land management.

Our Research & Diagnostics ensures that every legislative reform and policy brief published by TSI is irrefutable, scientifically grounded, and tailored to the unique Somali context.

We conduct in-depth studies and analysis to understand the root causes, patterns, and mechanisms of corruption in Somalia. Our rigorous, evidence-based reports identify systemic vulnerabilities, providing government and partners with actionable data and insights. By transforming complex information into clear, policy-relevant knowledge, we drive informed decision-making and measure progress toward accountability.

Scroll to Top