Puntland has made significant progress in establishing functioning institutions, decentralized governance and direct local elections. However, these achievements remain under pressure from political tensions, climate shocks, displacement, competition over land and water, youth exclusion, and the limited financial and administrative capacity of district authorities. This policy brief examines the relationship between social cohesion and local governance in Puntland. It finds that communities with trusted, representative and capable local councils are better able to resolve disputes, distribute services fairly, participate in public decision-making and recover from shocks. Where local councils are contested, under-resourced or unable to deliver services, grievances and mistrust can grow. The brief recommends strengthening inclusive political dialogue, conflict-sensitive development, community reconciliation, accountable local governance, women’s and youth participation, institutional coordination, and evidence-based early-warning systems. Consolidating Puntland’s governance gains will require credible local institutions, adequately financed district authorities and meaningful community participation. Social cohesion, accountable governance, climate resilience and sustainable development should therefore be addressed as one interconnected agenda.