Overview of Djibouti

Profile

The Republic of Djibouti, though only about 23,000 km² (smaller than Japan''s Shikoku), faces the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the entrance to the Red Sea and has prospered from ancient times in trade as a maritime traffic junction. Port services, transit trade for neighboring Ethiopia, and income from multiple foreign military bases support the economy. Most of the country consists of rock desert and salt lakes, with Lake Assal (Africa''s lowest elevation) and Great Rift Valley volcanic topography creating unique landscapes. Official languages are French and Arabic, but most residents use Somali or Afar in daily life. The hot, dry climate and Islamic culture shape people''s lifestyles, and the culture of chewing khat leaves remains strong.

Official name: Republic of Djibouti
Common name: Djibouti
Numeric code: 262
Alpha-3 code: DJI
Alpha-2 code: DJ
Population: 1.22 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 48 people/km²
Primary languages: French, Arabic
Major religions: Islam, Christianity
National anthem: Djibouti
Calling code: +253
Internet TLD: .dj

History

Established as French Somaliland in the late 19th century and gained independence in 1977 following a referendum.

After France leased Obock at the mouth of Tadjoura Bay in 1859, colonial rule progressed as a key point on the Red Sea route. It became French Somaliland in 1896, and the railway connecting Djibouti port to Ethiopia boosted the economy. Amid independence momentum and ethnic conflict, it gained independence as the Republic of Djibouti on June 27, 1977. Conflict between Issa and Afar residents led to civil war in the early 1990s, but after peace, the country has maintained relatively stable politics under President Ismail Omar Guelleh. With Somali piracy countermeasures, militaries from various countries deployed, and overseas bases from France, the United States, Japan, China, and others concentrated, it has become an international security hub.

Geography & climate

Country of rock desert with rift valleys and basalt plateaus created by Great Rift Valley tension, and below-sea-level salt lakes connected

Hot desert climate (BWh)

Area: Africa / 23200 km²
Capital: Djibouti City
Largest city: Djibouti City
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Assal, Lake Abbe
Bordering countries: Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia

Natural resources

Salt, Gypsum, Limestone, Silica sand, Geothermal energy, Solar power, Wind power, Fishery resources, Tourism resources, Strategic port

Politics

Government: Republic (presidential system, unicameral parliament)

Economy

Currency: Djiboutian Franc (DJF)

GDP (nominal): 3.7 billion US dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 8 billion International dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: French, Arabic

Time zone: East Africa Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Issa (Somali), Afar, Arab, French, Ethiopian and others, Eritrean

Life expectancy

63 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 70%

National sports

Football, Marathon, Athletics, Camel racing, Basketball, Traditional wrestling