Digital governance and integrity in Somalia: examining how citizens’ perceptions of E-service efficiency and government transparency shape attitudes toward corruption in post-conflict Somalia

Abstract

This study examines the impact of Somali citizens’ perceptions of e-service efficiency and government transparency on their attitudes toward corruption in a post-conflict setting. Utilizing theories of transparency, digital governance, and institutional accountability, this study employed a quantitative approach, using a structured questionnaire administered to 488 respondents in Mogadishu. Structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to assess the relationships between variables. The findings indicate that both perceived government transparency (β = 0.507, p < 0.001) and e-service efficiency (β = 0.189, p < 0.01) significantly affect citizens’ attitudes toward corruption, with transparency exerting a more substantial influence. These results suggest that enhancing transparency and optimizing digital service delivery can promote public intolerance of corruption even in fragile state contexts. However, the 43% variance suggests that other institutional and sociopolitical factors also contribute. This study recommends prioritizing transparent governance, improving digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and incorporating citizen feedback mechanisms to bolster public integrity and trust in Somalia.