Title: Public Service Motivation And Employee Engagement In A Post-Conflict State: A Systematic Literature Review And Research Agenda For Somaliland's Public Sector
Authors: Mustafe Mahamoud Abdillahi
Volume: 9
Issue: 11
Pages: 162-179
Publication Date: 2025/11/28
Abstract:
This study undertook a systematic literature review to explore the interplay between Public Service Motivation (PSM) and Employee Engagement (EE) within the unique context of Somaliland's public sector. The review confirmed the universal relevance of core PSM dimensions but highlighted their inadequacy for capturing motivation in a non-Western, post-conflict, and clan-based society. The research identified a significant gap in empirical studies on this subject, specific to Somaliland. Consequently, the study theorized a context-specific Hybrid PSM Model that integrated established dimensions with unique local antecedents: Clan Accountability, Islamic Service Ethic, and Patriotic Nation-Building, underpinned by the cultural norm of Maatufaynimo (communal self-help). The model proposed that Employee Engagement is maximized when a strong values congruence exists between these hybrid motivations and an organizational environment characterized by supportive leadership, perceived organizational justice, adequate job resources, and reduced patronage. The study discussed the implications of this model for attracting, retaining, and motivating a high-performing workforce in Somaliland, emphasizing values-based strategies over financial incentives. It concluded that a deep understanding of local socio-cultural drivers is essential for effective human resource management in Somaliland's public administration. The paper concluded by outlining an agenda for future empirical research to validate the proposed model.