Little country. Small country Where is the city of Djibouti

Djibouti is located on the continent of Africa and the occupied territory of Djibouti is 23,000. The population of Djibouti is 879,000 people. The capital of Djibouti is located in Djibouti City. The form of government of Djibouti is a Republic. In Djibouti they speak: Arabic, French. Who does Djibouti border with: Eritrea, Somalia, Ethiopia.
The special charm of the state of Djibouti lies in the fact that it is still a relatively little-explored place by tourists. Desert lakes are unforgettable when the hot African sun just rises over them and bright flamingos take wing. The black lava fields, volcanic chimneys, which are a completely common sight in the Great Rift region (from which volcanic gases and hot steam are carried to the surface), as well as the endless expanses of the famous “Martian landscape” - this is a short list of those that look truly fantastic. amazing monuments nature that can be seen in this tiny piece of land called Djibouti. And at the same time, there are coastal strips of sand, azure waves, and beautiful landscapes that are completely familiar to the European eye. undersea world Red Sea, which makes diving and snorkeling incredibly exciting.
Most of the state of Djibouti is the port city of the same name, which is the capital. The main architectural attraction of the city is the majestic Presidential Palace, built in the neo-Moorish style. Also worthy of attention are the very picturesque buildings with typical colonial features. The local Central Market is very popular. It is located south of the central part of the capital and is attractive, among other things, because here you can legally purchase fresh branches of the so-called “khat” - a mild drug that is very popular in the East.
Also of particular interest is the Tropical Aquarium of Djibouti. This beautiful place, where you can freely stroll past the Presidential Palace, along shady sidewalks past the famous L'Escale theater, and see some of the best yacht moorings in the world.
Most good beaches, located near the city, are considered to be Hor Ambado and the more accessible Dorale. Here you can easily rent a boat and go on a trip to protected islands Musha and Maskali, located in the Gulf of Tadjoura. In addition, the picturesque desert area of Ali Sabieh has a special charm. It is located almost a hundred kilometers from the capital of Djibouti and is a wide salt plain - real paradise for lovers of sand windsurfing.
The road connecting Djibouti and Ali Sabieh is crossed by two perfectly flat, truly unique desert plains - Grand Bara and Petite Vara. They are a kind of “sea” for windsurfing on wheels.
Ten kilometers from Tadjoura you can see another natural attraction of the state - several mountain peaks rising into the sky to a height of more than one thousand three hundred meters. In addition, there are excellent places for diving underwater, where you can admire the incredibly beautiful coral reefs.
The Gulf of Aden also boasts a very picturesque underwater world: due to the peculiarities of the local currents, these places are considered very dangerous and difficult for diving, but nevertheless they are the dream of any diver. Many scuba divers visit these places, and the reason for this is not the best reputation of the local waters: at the bottom of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait lie from one and a half to six thousand once sunken ships.
The country's lakes are also very unusual and interesting. For example, Assal is located in a basin (more than one hundred and fifty meters below sea level) and is a picturesque wilderness surrounded by extinct volcanoes and lifeless lava fields. And completely different, but no less beautiful lake called Lac Gube is separated from Assal by an intricately twisted isthmus. It is filled with salt water and among local residents it has a very strange name - “Pit of Demons”.

The former French colony of Djibouti gained independence in 1977. But unlike other African countries, this state has retained its desire for civilization without abandoning its traditions and customs. The bizarre interweaving of the main religion - Islam and local pagan beliefs - has created the unique, original beauty of this country. Which, despite its poverty, offers vacationers good service and excellent conditions for a relaxing holiday on the seashore. However, its proximity to Somalia and Ethiopia makes this country not very popular for mass tourism - there are often clashes in the border areas.

Features of culture

They are carefully guarded here centuries-old traditions, which do not change even under the influence of Sunni Islam. However big influence provided western civilization, under whose influence this country was for many decades. As a result, most of the buildings are a unique cocktail between Arabic, European and African styles. Many cultural works are preserved orally and passed on from older generations to younger ones. People here enjoy playing at national musical instruments, which color every national holiday with the sounds of tom-toms and rhythmic dances.

Sights of Djibouti

Unfortunately, the unique historical and cultural monuments not preserved here. But there is a lot of natural beauty here, which attracts sophisticated tourists. Most likely, your journey around the country will begin from its capital - the city. There are a lot here interesting places where you can have a good time. For example, the Tropical Aquarium is one of the best on the entire African continent. We also recommend visiting the dormant Ardoukoba volcano, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which separates Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, and the Gulf of Tadjoor. In the capital there is an amazing Le Marche Central market, which attracts, first of all, with the legal sales of fresh branches of “khat” - a natural stimulant, a soft drug, very popular in this country.

After exploring the sights of the capital, go see the natural beauty of the state. This:

Lake Assal is a crater reservoir located at 155 meters below sea level. Lowest point in Africa.
National Park Day Forest, home to the Goda Mountains. The unique East African juniper also grows here.
Mount Hemed - You can climb to its flat top for great views. If you are going to spend the night here, then take warm clothes, as at night the temperature here drops to +10 Celsius.
The Garbes fumarole field is a unique collection of volcanic basalt rocks.

Many travelers prefer beach holiday in Djibouti. And not in vain, the sea here is warm, clean, and the beaches are well-groomed and attractive with their solitude. All conditions for rich fishing have been created here, yachting and surfing are organized. You can also take an underwater excursion to the wrecks of the Mandeb Strait. In a word, Djibouti is a vacation for every taste and budget.

When is the best time to go to Djibouti

Although the country has warm weather all year round, best time for a trip here - from November to mid-April. During these months it is relatively dry and comfortable. In the mountains, temperatures are much lower than average, so when planning to travel through the mountain ranges, stock up on warm clothes.

Safety regulations

It is recommended not to travel independently in the border regions with Somalia and Eritrea. The safest places for tourists to relax are the area of Lake Assal, the White Sands beach and some islands. Most cases of theft and robbery are associated with the influx of refugees who have flooded the country from Somalia and other African countries. Travelers are strongly advised to drink only bottled water, carefully observe hygiene rules, and be vaccinated against meningitis, Dengue fever, polio, and hepatitis A and B.

Republic of Djibouti

The Republic of Djibouti is located in northeast Africa (Horn of Africa), between Ethiopia and Somalia, on the coasts of the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects Indian Ocean with the Red Sea. The area of the state is 22,000 square meters. kilometers - in fact, the country consists of the capital of the same name with a population of 300,000 people and several other small settlements(in total there are 540,000 inhabitants in the state). By the way, this is the most important port in Africa, so Djibouti can be called a small maritime power. Available in the country and international Airport, which is easiest to reach from Moscow via Dubai or Paris.

Official language State - Arabic, although French is also widely spoken, and part of the population speaks the Afar language. Udachnoe geographical position and political stability have made this country extremely convenient for observers and representatives of various international organizations, primarily the UN, as well as spies of all stripes and foreign military garrisons (note to young ladies: most of all there are American soldiers). Which, however, does not at all interfere with free movement around the country foreign tourists.

Urban aesthetics

Once in Djibouti, it is worth visiting the presidential palace in the neo-Moorish style (you can walk freely around it, which is rare for Muslim countries); the Hamouli mosque, the L"Escale theater, the tropical aquarium and the Le Marche Central market (here, in particular, you can legally buy khat, a weak natural stimulant very popular in the East). The city is famous for its restaurants of Arabic and Pan-African cuisine; be sure to try local dishes- for example, raw ground beef, stuffed with all sorts of oriental seasonings with fiery Berber sauce.

There are only two hotels in the city so far: Sheraton Djibouti 4* and Djibouti Palace Kempinski 5*. Both hotels have swimming pools, and Kempinski also has its own sandy beach and Spa center& Wellness, which offers visitors all kinds of facial and body treatments and Ayurvedic massage. In hotels you can book excursions, air trips, fishing in the open sea; they own football and golf fields, and Kempinski has a disco and even a casino.

Ecotourism

The typical landscape of the country consists of mountain ranges, extinct volcanoes and lava plateaus, there are hot springs and unique salt lakes - because of the white coating of salt, sometimes it seems that you are at the North Pole. The most famous lake- Assal, which lies at an altitude of 153 meters below sea level (this is the most low point Africa!). And Lake Lac Gube local residents nicknamed the “pit of demons” - because of the mysterious, fear-inducing volcanic terrain.

There are still few tourists in Djibouti. Here you can still find virgin shores and wild flamingos, with the first rays of the sun soaring into the sky like a pink curtain; and dolphins are not afraid to swim almost to the very shore.

It seems that the noisy industrial world remains somewhere in a past life, but in Djibouti there is peace and quiet, a volcanic “Martian” landscape unchanged for many centuries with gray streams of steam emerging from under black lava, and cleanest beaches with white sand. So divers, surfers, lovers of snorkeling and yachting will find freedom here. In the area of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait there are coral reefs, dangerous due to underwater currents, but very popular among divers from all over the world: according to various estimates, from 1,500 to 6,000 sunken ships of different countries and eras rest at the bottom of the strait.

The best beaches near the city limits are Dorale and Hor Ambado. You can rent a boat and take a voyage to the protected islands of Maskali and Musha in the Gulf of Tadjoura to dive and swim with whale sharks (don’t worry: humans are not part of the diet of these animals) or go fishing in the open sea. A hundred kilometers southwest of the capital lies the exotic desert area of Ali Sabieh - a large salty plain favored by sand windsurfers.

Expert opinion

Elena Atakhanova,
Deputy general director travel company"A-CLASS"

"If you are enough experienced traveler and you want new impressions, you want to take a break from the noise, bustle and other costs of civilization, feel like Robinson Crusoe, or you are interested in the underwater world and high-quality diving - then you should go to Djibouti. This African country at the junction of ocean and sea will leave you with a lot of exotic impressions. If Djibouti used to be popular among European and American travelers who prefer “wild” tourism, recently conditions have appeared here for those who are accustomed to comfort and appreciate good service. By the way, the local population is very friendly and hospitable towards tourists.

In addition to contemplating the unique natural landscapes and wildlife, in Djibouti you can take a course of SPA treatments or play in a casino. Business tourism is also a success - various companies are happy to hold seminars and conferences in Djibouti. And air travel via Dubai allows you to organize combined tours of the UAE - Djibouti."

Helpful information

Visa

necessary for Russian citizens. There are no diplomatic missions of Djibouti in Russia. You can obtain a visa in advance at Djibouti embassies in European countries (for example in Paris or Berlin) or directly at the point of entry into Djibouti. To do this, you must present a passport and a completed immigration card (issued on site). The cost of a visa for 10 days is 12 euros, for 1 month - 20 euros. At Djibouti Airport, departing passengers are charged a fee of 20 euros.

Currency

Djiboutian franc ( international designation- DJF, domestically - DFr). 1 euro = 254 DJF.

Hotels

Sheraton Djibouti, BP 1924 Plateau de Serpent, Djibouti. The cost of accommodation is from 98 euros per day per room.
Djibouti Palace Kempinski, Ilot du Heron, P.O. Box 1960, Djibouti. The cost of accommodation is from 190 euros per day per room.

Maria Zhelikhovskaya

The official name is the Republic of Djibouti (Ripublique de Djibouti).

Located in northeastern Africa, in the Horn of Africa. Area 23.2 thousand km2, population 820.6 thousand people. (est. 2003). Official languages: French and Arabic. The capital is Djibouti (547.1 thousand people, 2003). Public Holiday- Independence Day June 27 (since 1977). The monetary unit is the Djiboutian franc (equal to 100 centimes).

Member of the UN (since 1977), OAU (since 1972), AU (since 1972), LAS (since 1977), AfDB, ICAO, OIC, IMF, IBRD, FAO, CGT, WHO, etc.

Sights of Djibouti

Geography of Djibouti

Located between 43° east longitude and 11° 30′ north latitude, washed by the waters of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden of the Indian Ocean, the coastline is slightly indented, the only bay is Tadjoura. It borders on Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the north, west and south, and Somalia to the southeast. The terrain is mountainous and consists of alternating mountain ranges with low lava plateaus. Nai highest point Mount Musa Ali (2028 m). The most big lake- Assal, 155 m below sea level, salty. All rivers are drying up. The climate is tropical, dry. Permanent vegetation cover (forests) is on the basalt mountain spurs north of the Gulf of Tadjoura. The vegetation is varied on a strip up to 5-6 km wide along the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Tadjoura and Aden. Here and in the oases there are large mammals, antelopes, hyenas, jackals, and monkeys in the forests. Lots of butterflies, insects and reptiles. Coastal waters are rich in commercial fish. The subsoil is practically unexplored. There is gypsum, large reserves of clay, limestone High Quality and sea salt, there is a large deposit of perlite and pumice deposits. There is a fairly high probability of the presence of gold, silver, copper, lead and zinc.

Population of Djibouti

Population growth - 2.59%. Population density - 27 people. per 1 km2. Fertility rate 40.33%, mortality 14.43%, infant mortality 99.7 people. per 1000 newborns. Life expectancy - 51.6 years, incl. men - 49.73, women - 53.51 (2002). Economically active population - 282 thousand people. (2000). The share of the urban population is 60-70%, with slightly more than half of the country's population living in the capital. Among the population over 15 years of age, 46.2% are literate (1995). The republic is inhabited by two main peoples - the Issa and the Afar. The Issa are one of the major Somali tribes and speak Issa, a dialect of the Somali language. The Afars speak the Afar language. Ethnic composition (in%): Issa - 45, other Somali tribes (Isaq, Gadabursi) - 15, Afars - 35, Europeans, Arabs, Ethiopians, etc. - 5%. The Afars, Issa and other indigenous people are Sunni Muslims.

History of Djibouti

From the 7th century with the penetration of Islam into the territory of Djibouti, Arab sultanates emerged. In the 16th century As a result of the rivalry between the Turks and the Portuguese, the Portuguese seized power over the territory. From the 17th century power again passed to the Muslim sultanates. From ser. In the 19th century, especially with the beginning of construction of the Suez Canal (1856), European powers seized territories along the Horn of Africa in the struggle for control of the entrance to the Red Sea. France has been seizing the current territory of Djibouti since 1862, and in 1896 its possessions were named the French Coast of Somalia. The colonial authorities for a long time gave preference to the Afars, with whose sultans they entered into agreements when expanding their possessions, which caused conflicts between nomadic tribes not only over nomadic territories, but also on ethnic grounds. In 1946, the colony received the status of an overseas territory of France. 2nd World War contributed to the development of the national liberation movement. In 1967, the colony received expanded autonomy and the name French Territory of Afars and Issa (FTAI). Since 1972, the leader of the struggle for independence was the African People's League for Independence (LPAI), the majority of which were Issa. As a result of the referendum on June 27, 1977, the country became independent. The leader of the LPAI, Hassan Goulid Aptidon, became the President of the Republic of Djibouti. Since 1981, a one-party system was introduced.

In the beginning. 1990s Tensions between the Afars and the Issa resulted in armed clashes. In 1991, the Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy (FWED) was created, uniting three Afar organizations. In 1991-94, the Front led an armed struggle against the government. The 1992 Constitution allowed the activities of a maximum of four political parties. In March 1994, the FWED split into two factions. One of them cooperated with the government party POP (People's Union for Progress). The opposition faction advocated the continuation of armed resistance. In February 1999, Gulid announced his retirement from politics. In April 1999, Ismail Omar Guelleh, the only candidate from the NOP, won the presidential elections. In May 2001, the government signed a peace treaty with the rebels of the anti-government FVED faction, who resumed hostilities against the Gulid regime back in 1997. Parliamentary elections took place on January 10, 2003. The NOP received 62.2% of the votes, the FVED - 36.9%. In parliament, the NOP won all 65 seats and became the ruling party.

Government and political system of Djibouti

Djibouti is a unitary presidential republic. The new Constitution has been in force since September 15, 1992. The country is divided into 5 districts (2003, people): the capital itself, Ali Sabie (13,300), Tadjoura (13,300), Dik Kil (10,800), Obok (8300).
The highest legislative body is the National Assembly, consisting of 65 deputies elected by universal suffrage for a period of 5 years. The right to vote - from the age of 18, the right to be elected - from the age of 23. The head of state is President Ismail Omar Guelleh (since May 8, 1999). The president of the country is elected by popular vote for a term of 5 years, is the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, and appoints the prime minister and cabinet of ministers. Prime Minister - Dileita Mohamed Dileita (since March 4, 2001).

The judiciary represents Supreme Court, established in 1979. There is also a Supreme Court of Appeal and a Court of First Instance. The districts have criminal court, customary law and Islamic law courts.

Main parties: NOP, created in 1979 on the basis of LPAI, in 1981-92 - the only legal party, leader - Ismail Omar Guelleh; National Democratic Party (NDP), legalized in 1992, leader - Roble Awale Aden, in June 1996 the NDP formed a common front with dissidents from the NOP led by Mumin Bahdon Farah; FWED, founded in 1991, in March 1994 the Front split into two factions, one of them cooperates with the NOP, in 1996 it received legal status, the chairman is Ali Muhamed Daoud, the leader of the opposition faction is Ahmed Dini Ahmed; Democratic Renewal Party (DRP), legalized in 1992, opposition, small in number, divided due to internal contradictions, chairman - Gelle Abdillahi Hamareiteh; The Group for Democracy and the Republic (NOP-GDR), formed in May 1996 by an opposition group that left the NOP.

Public organizations - the General Association of Labor (GUT), created in 1979, until 1992 it was called the General Association of Workers of Djibouti, part of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity, chairman - Azmed Jama Egueh.

In the beginning. 21st century Djibouti is developing in conditions of relative political instability and the need for structural economic reforms. After the essentially authoritarian rule of President Gulid, the country moved to a multi-party system. Long-existing contradictions between the two main ethnic groups led to open armed confrontation. However, the contradictions that have existed and are taking place between them are not as antagonistic as the contradictions between military-political groups, as conflicts at the level of the political elite of society.

In foreign policy Djibouti adheres to the principles of non-alignment and supports peace and stability in the Horn of Africa region and a peaceful resolution of the situation in Somalia. It was Djibouti that played an important role in the creation of the Intergovernmental Council on Drought Management and Development. Relations with Ethiopia have been steadily developing, especially since the Ethiopian-Eritrean border conflict, as a result of which all Ethiopian maritime traffic is carried out through the port of Djibouti. The same conflict led to the severance of diplomatic relations with Eritrea, which were restored in 2000. In 2002, Germany and Djibouti signed an agreement on the deployment of German troops on the territory of Djibouti to combat international terrorism. Since 1977, there has been a treaty of friendship and cooperation with France. France has obligations for the military defense of the country. Her military base- the largest in Africa.

The National Army of Djibouti was created in 1977. The law on universal conscription was adopted in 1979. According to the 1992 Constitution, there is universal conscription for men aged 18 to 25 years. Total number Armed Forces 9600 people, in addition, 1200 people. serve in gendarmerie detachments and 3000 people. - in the national security forces.

Djibouti has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established with the USSR in 1978).

Economy of Djibouti

The basis of the country's economy is trade carried out through international port Djibouti and its associated service sector. The seaport is of international importance, being the most important in the western part of the Indian Ocean. A special role is played by the railway connecting Djibouti with Addis Ababa, and modern airport, capable of receiving heavy-duty jetliners. The financial sector is of great importance, which is determined primarily by the free convertibility of the Djiboutian franc. Serving the French military garrison and other foreigners living in the country also provides significant income. GDP 586 million US dollars. GDP per capita - $1,400, inflation 2%, unemployment 50% (2001). Sectoral structure of the economy by contribution to GDP: agriculture 3%, industry 10%, services 87%.

Djibouti has very little cultivable land; the country meets only 3% of its food needs. The population, engaged in breeding goats, sheep and camels, leads a nomadic lifestyle. Fisheries and the extraction of pearls, corals, and sponges are developed. IN agriculture, including hunting, forestry and fishing, employs 75% of the working population.

Industrial production is poorly developed and is represented by small enterprises producing food products, leather goods, building materials, as well as mechanical and sewing workshops. Evaporation of salt from sea water has been developed. The public sector owns power plants, an oil company, transport (partially), communications, several processing plants, e.g. mineral water in Tadjoura. The conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea in 1998-99 increased the load on the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway line, which served as an incentive to renew the carriage and locomotive fleet. Increased use of the port of Djibouti by Ethiopia initiated a port expansion program from 2000.

The Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway, founded in 1909, is jointly owned by the two countries, with a length of 781 km, of which 106 km runs through the territory of Djibouti. There are only 2890 km of roads, of which 364 are paved (1996). There are 12 airports, of which 3 have a runway with a special coating, and one is international, in the capital.

Telephones - 10,000, mobile phones - 5,000 (2002), radios - 52,000 (1997), televisions - 28,000 (1997), Internet users - 3,300 (2002).

Djibouti is heavily dependent on foreign assistance, which it is willing to provide due to its special strategic location. The main donors are the UAE, France and Saudi Arabia.

Foreign trade (millions of US dollars, 1999): exports 260; import 440. Main export goods: animal skins, coffee. Re-export is developed. Export partners: Somalia (53%), Yemen (23%), Ethiopia (5%) (1998). Main imported goods: food, drinks, transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum products. Import partners: France (13%), Ethiopia (12%), Italy (9%), Saudi Arabia (6%), Great Britain (6%) (1998).

External debt US$366 million (2002 estimate). Foreign exchange reserves US$69.10 million (1999).

Political instability in recent years and economic difficulties have worsened the socio-economic situation of the population. Massive influx of refugees from neighboring countries increases the percentage of the unemployed population. Djibouti's failure to reform its fiscal policy led to the adoption of an additional fiscal law in 1998 to satisfy the IMF's demands for a $9 million reduction in the budget deficit. The law included wage cuts for public sector workers, measures to improve tax collection, and an increase in the gasoline tax. and khat (a plant with a mild narcotic effect).

The 1999 government budget was (USD million): revenues 135, expenses 182. In October 1999, Djibouti agreed to accept an IMF loan of $26.5 million to support the government's three-year economic reform program (1999-2002). Achieving balance was the main condition of the reforms: these included tax reform, review of administration revenues and budget allocations; completion of the army demobilization program by the end. 2000; reform of the state civil service, incl. wage reduction; promulgation of the privatization program for 6 major state-owned enterprises. Reduction of contributions by wages and a significant increase in tax collection allowed the total amount of the 2002 budget to increase by 3.9% compared to the 2001 budget.

Tourism is developed in Djibouti. Deserted areas of the sea coast and the rich underwater world of the coral reefs of the Red Sea make snorkeling and diving in these places an attractive activity. Interesting for tourists: the Tropical Aquarium of Djibouti, yacht moorings, some of the best in the world, perfectly flat desert plains - Petit Vara and Grand Bara, which serve as a “stadium” for windsurfing on wheels. IN national parks Dai, Maskali Musha, Lac Abbe you can see nature that is unique even by African standards. The number of tourists in 1998 was 20 thousand people.

Science and culture of Djibouti

In 1996, 26% of all school-age children (31% of boys and 22% of girls) were enrolled in primary and secondary school education, and 35% were enrolled in primary education only (36% of boys and 27% of girls). According to official data, in the 1999/2000 academic year, school education in the country covered approx. 1/2 school age children. There are 70 primary schools (including three technical schools) and three lyceums in the country. There are several dozen Koranic schools where Arabic is taught. Since there are no higher educational institutions in Djibouti, those wishing to continue their education go abroad, mainly to France. The Higher Institute of Scientific and Technical Research (VINTI) was founded in 1979, created to study nature, natural resources, archeology and traditional culture of the peoples of the country. The Punt magazine, published by the section of social and human sciences of VINTI together with the Society for the Study of East Africa, covers issues of history, culture, literature and art, and also publishes articles about the traditions, customs, stories and legends of the Afar and Somali tribes. Under the auspices of the People's Palace, built in 1985, the Committee for the Development of Culture and Art of Ethnic Groups operates, studying and promoting the oral creative heritage of the Afars and Issa. Popular among Djiboutians are works of oral folk art, legends, myths, fairy tales and traditions passed down from generation to generation, often in poetic form, as well as traditional folk music with the widespread use of tom-toms. There are 5 cinemas and the Salin Theater in the capital.

Republic, state on S.-V. Africa. Independence declared in 1977 G. During the colonial period - French ownership, until 1967 G. Somalia (French) or, officially. French Coast of Somalia, then French Afar territory and. Issa, after the name of the two main nationalities of this territory. With the declaration of independence, the name was adopted for the main city of the country -. The city was founded in 1883 G. on Cape Rae-Djibouti (Arabic race "cape") composed of small coral reefs. The explanation for the name is associated with the uneven surface of the cape and the adjacent coast.

Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. - M: AST. Pospelov E.M.

2001.

(Djibouti), 1) Djibouti state in the NE. Africa, on the south coast of the Gulf of Aden. And French Coast Somalia ; since 1946 - an overseas territory of France, since 1967 - French Afar and Issa Territory . Since 1977 – independent Republic of Djibouti ; the head of state is the president, legislative power belongs to the National. meeting.
The landscape is dominated by mountain ranges and lava plateaus with cones extinct volcanoes, which are located within the depression Afar . On the NE. spurs of the ridge Danakil (Musa-Ali city, 2022 m). IN deep depression salty lake Assal (156 m below sea level). High seismicity. The climate is tropical, desert (one of the hottest places in the world). In summer there are sandstorms from Arabia - khamsin, but in May and September there is 100% humidity on the coast. There are no permanent rivers. B.h. deserts and semi-deserts; in the oases there are palm trees (dum and date). National parks, reserves. Population 461 thousand people. (2001); of which 35% are Afars, 60% Issa, 5% Europeans and Arabs. Official Language – Arabic and French. Among believers, 94% are Muslims and 6% are Christians. City dwellers 83% (1996). Nomadic and semi-nomadic cattle predominate (cattle are a symbol of wealth for the Afars and Issa). Fish, marine crafts (crabs, mother of pearl, pearls, sponges, corals). Coffee, date palm, and early vegetables are grown. Up to 90% of food is imported. Small quantities of food, text. and sewing, leather footwear. prom-sti. Extraction of table salt on the lake. Assal and evaporation of it from sea water. Crafts: processing hides and skins, making jewelry from silver with pearls, mother-of-pearl, amber and coral, leather embossing. There are more than 3 thousand km of roads (of which 281 km are paved). French naval base. Cash unit – Djiboutian franc;
2) capital (since 1977), to the south. shore of the hall. Tadjoura (Indian Ocean). 387 thousand inhabitants (1995). Founded in 1888 by the French as a seaport with an artificial harbour. Large French Navy base. Miner production. water, dairy, repair shops. All government, educational and medical institutions of the country are concentrated here. The seaport for servicing transit cargo from Ethiopia is the “gateway to Ethiopia.” The city is divided into two parts: the port on the peninsulas of Marabout and Heron, which extend far into the sea, and trade, business and residential areas. On an elevated cape is the presidential residence (in neo-Moorish style). Mosques, a lot of greenery, streets under canopies of houses (from the sun). Since the 1940s, it has been built in a European style.

Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Ekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of academician. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .

Republic of Djibouti. State in northeastern Africa. Capital– Djibouti (547.1 thousand people – 2003). Territory– 23.2 thousand sq. km. Administrative division– 5 districts. Population– 712 thousand people. (2004). Official language– French and Arabic. Religion– Islam, Christianity. Currency unit– Djiboutian franc. National holiday– June 27 – Independence Day (1977). Djibouti has been a member of the UN since 1977, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) since 1977, and since 2002 its successor - the African Union (AU), the Non-Aligned Movement, the League of Arab States (LAS) since 1977, the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), Common Market Eastern and South Africa(COMESA) since 1994, and also an associate member of the European Union.
Geographical location and boundaries. A continental state located in the Horn of Africa and on the islands of Maskali, Musha and the Seven Brothers. It borders on Eritrea in the north, Ethiopia in the northwest, southwest and south, and Somalia in the southeast. East Coast washed by the waters of the Gulf of Aden of the Indian Ocean. Length coastline– 350 km.
Nature. Djibouti is in a zone of ongoing volcanic activity. Mountain ranges alternate with lava plateaus, and there are many extinct volcanoes. The Gulf of Tadjoura juts out 60 km into the land. The highest point is Mount Musa Ali (2021 m). Minerals - gypsum, clay, limestone, rock and table salt, pumice, perlite and pozzolan. There are geothermal springs.
Climate– tropical, hot and dry. Average monthly air temperatures are +27–35° C. They reach a maximum of +42–43° in July. The average annual precipitation is 45–130 mm per year. The greatest amount of moisture (500 mm) falls in the mountains of Goda and Mabla. There are no permanent rivers. Large lakes– Assal (salt) and Abbe (freshwater). Lack of drinking water is one of the main problems.
Flora mostly desert and semi-desert (cereals, various acacias). In the relict forest of Dai (Goda mountain range) there are juniper, olive tree, boxwood, thuja, ficus dracaena, etc., and in the valleys there are date palms and doum palms. Mangrove forests have been preserved on the coast and islands. Inhabited by kudu and sassa antelopes, warthogs, hyenas, wild cats, mongooses, honey badgers, sea turtles, monkeys, Saharan foxes, jackals, many birds (about 240 species, including rare species of ostriches), reptiles (including monitor lizards) , cobras and pythons), butterflies and insects. There is an abundance of fish, crabs and lobsters in the coastal waters.
Population. The average population density is 29.9 people. per 1 sq. km (2002). The average annual population growth is 2.1%. Birth rate – 40.39 per 1000 people, mortality – 19.42 per 1000 people. Infant mortality is 105.54 per 1000 births. 43.2% of the population are children under 14 years of age. Residents over 65 years of age – 3.1%. Life expectancy is 43.12 years (men – 41.83, women – 44.44). (All data for 2004). More than 45% of the population is below the poverty line (2003).
Djibouti is a multi-ethnic state. OK. 60% of the population are Somali peoples (including 48% - Issa (Abgal, Dalol, etc. peoples)), 35% - Afars (or Danakil), 5% - Europeans (most French and Italians), Arabs (in mostly people from Yemen), Ethiopians, etc. More than 100 thousand Djiboutians lead a nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle. The languages spoken by the vast majority of the population are Afar and Somali.
Djibouti has a high rate of urbanization. Big cities(in thousand people): Ali-Sabiye (8), Tadjur (7.5), Dikkil (6.5), Obok (5) - 2003. Urban population - approx. 70% (2/3 of them live in the capital) – 2003.
The issue of repatriation of refugees and illegal emigrants (100 thousand people - 2003) from Iraq, Yemen, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea and Ethiopia is an urgent issue. Djiboutian refugees live in Ethiopia and Kenya (approx. 20 thousand people - 2001). Since 2000, Djibouti has become one of the new routes for African refugees (via Moscow and Tallinn) to Sweden.
Religions. Djibouti is a secular state. 94% of the population are Sunni Muslims (there is also a small number of Shiites). Islam began to spread in the 9th century. AD Christians make up 5%, approx. 1% of Djiboutians profess Buddhism and Hinduism (2003). Representatives of some nationalities at the same time remain committed to traditional beliefs.
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
State structure. Presidential republic. The 1992 constitution is in force, approved by a referendum on September 4 of the same year. The head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces is the president, who is elected by universal direct and secret suffrage for a 6-year term. The President can hold this office for no more than two terms. Legislative power is exercised by a unicameral parliament (National Assembly), consisting of 65 deputies who are elected by universal and secret ballot for a 5-year term.
The President is Ismael Omar Gelleh. Elected April 9, 1999.
The national flag is a rectangular panel divided into two horizontal stripes of light blue (above) and light green. On the left (at the shaft) a white isosceles triangle is superimposed on the stripes, in the center of which there is a five-pointed red star.
Administrative device. The country is divided into 5 districts, which consist of municipalities. The districts are headed by the commissars of the republic (prefects who are also mayors of the district centers).
Judicial system. Based on modern law, Muslim and traditional (customary) law. The Supreme Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal, the so-called Security Tribunal, Sharia Courts, District Criminal Courts and Labor Courts. Since 2000, the Ministry of Justice has been taking measures to create a unified legal system in the country.
Armed forces and defense. The armed forces were created in 1977. In 2002 they numbered 9.6 thousand people: army - 9.2 thousand people, naval forces - 200 people, air Force- 200 people. There are also paramilitary units of the gendarmerie (1.2 thousand people) and the national security forces (3 thousand people) - 2002. Since 1992, universal military service has been in effect for men aged 18–25 years. Defense expenditures in 2003 amounted to $26.5 million (4.4% of GDP).
The largest French military base in Africa has remained on the territory of the country since colonial times (2850 people - 2004). Franco-Djiboutian military maneuvers are held regularly. Djibouti during the first war Persian Gulf(1990–1991) was used as an operating base for US troops. In the beginning. Since the 2000s, a regional anti-terrorism center has been located here (1,500 US soldiers).
Foreign policy. It is based on a policy of non-alignment and neutrality. The main foreign policy partner is France. Djibouti promotes the development of cooperation between the countries of the Horn of Africa: in 1985–1986, the country took the initiative to create IGAD (Intergovernmental Development Organization) and took part in resolving intra-Sudanese and Somali conflicts.
Diplomatic relations between the USSR and Djibouti were established on April 3, 1978. On January 6, 1992, the government of Djibouti recognized the Russian Federation as the legal successor of the USSR. Agreements on trade (1990) and cultural cooperation (1995) were signed. Universities of the USSR and the Russian Federation trained national personnel for Djibouti.
Political organizations. A multi-party system has emerged (there are more than 20 political parties). The most influential of them: “ People's Union for Progress,NOP"(Rassemblement populaire pour le progrès, RPP), leader - Ismael Omar Gelleh, general. sec. – Mohamed Ali Mohamed The ruling party, the only legal party in 1981–1992, created. in 1979; " Democratic Renewal Party, PDO» (Parti du renouveau démocratique, PRD) Chairman – Abdillahi Hamareiteh, General. sec. – Maki Houmed Gaba. Basics in 1992. Advocates for the creation of a democratic government formed on the basis of a parliamentary majority; " Union of Democratic Alliance, SDA"(Alliance républicaine pour la démocratie, ARD), chairman. – Ahmed Dini Ahmed, (Adan Mohamed Abdou). The main opposition party, created. in 2002; " Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy, FVED"(Front pour la restauration de l"unité et de la démocratie, FRUD), Chairman - Ali Mohamed Daoud, Secretary General - Ougoureh Kifleh Ahmed. Founded in 1991 as an Afar military group , after the split (1994), one of its factions was legalized as a party in March 1996.
Trade union associations. General Association of Labour, HERE (Union Générale du Travail). Created in 1977, until 1992 it was called the “General Union of Workers of Djibouti.” Unites 22 trade unions with 17 thousand members. Chairman - Yussuf Mohamed, Secretary General - Aden Mohamed Ardou.
ECONOMY
Djibouti is one of the least economically developed countries in the world. The basis of the economy is the agricultural sector. Frequent droughts (the last one in 2000) cause serious damage to the economy. A free economic zone has been created near the port of Djibouti.
Labor resources. Economically active population – 315 thousand people, including in the agricultural sector – 248 thousand people. (2000).
Agriculture. Share in GDP – 3.5% (2003). Its structure is dominated by livestock farming - breeding camels, goats, cattle, sheep and donkeys. Agriculture is poorly developed, the area of cultivated land is approx. 1%. They grow vegetables (mainly tomatoes), watermelons and melons. Fisheries are developing (catch of barracuda, loach, trevally, meru, moray eels, tuna, manta ray, etc.). The population also engages in hunting and fishing for pearls, corals and sea sponges.
Industry. Poorly developed. In 2003, its share in GDP was 15.8%. The manufacturing industry is represented by enterprises for processing agricultural products (confectionery factories, flour mills and dairy plants, plants for the primary processing of seafood, as well as for evaporating salt from sea water, a plant for the production of mineral water), paper, leather, construction and pharmaceutical industries are developing.
International trade. The volume of imports significantly exceeds the volume of exports: in 2002, imports (in US dollars) amounted to 665 million, and exports - 155 million. The main imports are soft drinks, oil and petroleum products, food products, transport equipment and chemicals. Main import partners: Saudi Arabia (19.7%), Ethiopia (10.9%), China (9.2%), France (6.5%) and Great Britain (5.1%) - 2003. Main products exports - coffee (transit), re-export, animal skins and tanned leather. The main export partners are Somalia (63.9%), Yemen (22.5%) and Ethiopia (4.7%) - 2003.
Energy. The basis of the fuel and energy balance is imported oil and oil products, as well as charcoal. There are 6 thermal power plants in operation. Research is underway on the use of alternative energy sources (including geothermal waters).
Transport. The transport network is more developed in the southern districts. An important place in its structure belongs to seaport in Djibouti (opened in 1888, its expansion began in 2000) - a transit point on international routes from Europe and the Mediterranean to East Africa and the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Other sea ports- Aden and Jeddah. The maritime merchant fleet in 2004 consisted of 1 vessel. The length of the railways (they are part of the railway shared with Ethiopia) is 121 km. The first line (Djibouti–Dire Dauwa (Ethiopia)) was built in 1902. Total length highways– more than 3.5 thousand km (with hard surface – 500 km). There are 13 airports and runways (3 of them have hard surfaces). Ambouli International Airport (6 km from the capital) is one of the largest in Africa. (All data for 2003).
Finance and credit. The currency is the Djiboutian franc (DJF), divided into 100 centimes. National currency exchange rate: 1 USD = 177.72 DJF (beginning of 2004).
Tourism. The country has potential for development tourism business– the presence of a fairly extensive infrastructure, sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes of the Gulf of Tadjoura, conditions for yachting and spearfishing. In 1998, the country was visited by 20 thousand foreign tourists (mostly French). Attractions: tropical aquarium, central market, Dorale beach (Djibouti), protected islands of Maskali and Musha in the Gulf of Tadjour, national forest park Dai, as well as an exotic desert area reminiscent of a lunar landscape, near the city of Ali Sabieh.
Spearfishing (including sea turtles) is prohibited by law. (However, its meat is included in many dishes local cuisine). Fishing is permitted only with a license. The extraction and export of corals and shells from the country is prohibited.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
Education. The foundations of the education system were laid in the 1910s. A 6-year primary education is compulsory (officially free), which children receive from the age of 6. Secondary education (7 years) begins at the age of 12 and takes place in two stages - 4 and 3 years. In 2001 primary schools 37.9 thousand children of the corresponding age attended. There are several dozen Koranic schools. Secondary technical and higher education Djiboutian youth receive education abroad (mainly in France; in the late 1990s, students from Djibouti also studied at Russian universities). OK. 55% of graduates do not return to their homeland after graduation. From the end 2000 began the implementation of a program to reform the education system. 67.9% of the population is literate (78% of men and 58.4% of women) – 2003.
Healthcare. Infectious diseases (including tuberculosis) predominate. The lack of clean drinking water (about 90% of the population had constant access to it in 2000) leads to outbreaks of intestinal infectious diseases. In 2003, there were 9.1 thousand people with AIDS and HIV-infected people, 690 people died. The growth rate of AIDS incidence is 2.9% per year (2003).
In 2000, 91% of the population had access to health care, and health care spending accounted for 5% of GDP. In terms of infant mortality rate, Djibouti is in the top ten among African countries. According to the UN report on the humanitarian development of the planet (2001), the Republic of Djibouti was in 153rd place in the ranking of countries. Doctors are trained abroad (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, France and Russia). In addition to France, Germany, Iraq and Libya provided financial assistance to the healthcare system.
Architecture. It is characterized by a mixture of Arabic, African and Western European styles. The traditional type of dwelling is a small one- or two-story house under a flat roof, surrounded by a terrace and gallery. Quite thick walls protecting from the heat are built from madrepore blocks (local building material of coral origin). The windows and doors are wooden and decorated with carvings. Among nomadic peoples, their homes are covered with leather tents or huts made of mats. In the city of Djibouti, quarters built in the colonial style have been preserved. Modern construction uses aluminum, reinforced concrete structures and glass.
Fine arts and crafts. Professional painting and sculpture are in the formative stage. The name of the young artist Robert (pseudonym of Mohammed Hussein) is widely known in the country. Artistic crafts are common - weaving products from reeds, making souvenirs (stuffed representatives water world, various shells, stone and coral crafts).
Literature. Based on the traditions of oral folk art of the Afars and Issa, it is significantly influenced by the literature of France. Folklore (legends, myths, traditions and fairy tales) is popular. In the 1990s, several collections of legends and tales of local peoples were published in French, Afar and Somali. The circle of writers is small. Modern writers - Abdurahman Waberi (lives in France, two collections of stories by a young author are included in the compulsory school curriculum in Djibouti), Dagher Ahmed. The poet A. Vais is popular.
Music and theater. Playing musical instruments, singing and dancing are an integral part of the original culture. Traditional music is performed on tom-toms. In the 20th century she was influenced by modern European and Arabic musical cultures. Origin national theater started at the end 1980s Several music, dance and theater groups work at the People's Palace (built in Djibouti in 1985). In the capital there is an amateur theater "Salin", on the stage of which touring foreign artists perform (in 1989 the ensemble "Russian Song" gave concerts).
Development of national literature, music and visual arts promotes active interaction between the country's creative intelligentsia and numerous francophone organizations operating in Djibouti (including the French cultural center named after A. Rimbaud) and the Goethe Institute (Germany), which regularly hold cultural events.
Press, radio broadcasting, television and Internet. Published: in French and Arabic - the weekly newspaper “La Nation de Djibouti” (La Nation de Djibouti - “The People of Djibouti”, an appendix to it is published irregularly in the Somali language), in French– the official gazette of the government “Journal officiel de la République de Djibouti” (Official Newspaper of the Republic of Djibouti), the newspaper “Le Progrès” (“Progress”) - the printed organ of the ruling NOP, weekly “Le Renouveau” (Le Renouveau – “Renewed”) - the printed organ of the PDO, etc.
"Djibouti News Agency, ADJI" (Agence Djiboutienne d'Information, ADJI) was created in 1978, has been operating since 1982. The government broadcasting and television service has been operating since 1956 (a modern multi-storey studio was built in 1991), daily broadcasts are conducted in French, Arabic and Afar languages, as well as the Somali language. Television programs are broadcast only in the city of Djibouti and its suburbs. There are 6.5 thousand Internet users (2003).
STORY
Pre-colonial period. The territory of modern Djibouti was inhabited long before the beginning of the new era. In the 3rd century. BC e. Traders from Greece, India, Persia and South Arabia entered here. In the beginning. 9– con. 14th centuries The territory of Djibouti was part of the Muslim state entity Iifat. The Turkish-Portuguese rivalry for control of Djibouti ended with the victory of Portugal (14th century), but in the 17th century. The sultanates seized power again.
Colonial period. France had been trying to gain a foothold on the coast of the Gulf of Aden since the 1850s. In 1888, the French founded the seaport of Djibouti on the coast. Since 1896, the new colony with the administrative center in Djibouti began to be called the French Coast of Somalia. Trade was actively developing, French colonists created agricultural and cattle breeding farms. Commissioning of the joint Djiboutian-Ethiopian railway(1917) turned the country into an important military-strategic point in the Indian Ocean. In 1946, the colony received the status of an overseas territory of France.
The first political party - the Democratic Union of Somalia (DSU) - was created in 1958. In the 1960s, parties were created on an ethnic basis: the People's Movement Party (PMU), the Afar Democratic Union (DSA), etc. Growth in political activity in the colony forced France in 1967 to grant it expanded autonomy, it also received a new name - “French Territory of Afars and Issas” (FTAI). In 1975, the first interethnic party was founded - the African People's League for Independence (APLN), which initiated the movement for the country's independence. In a referendum held on May 8, 1977, 98.7% of the Djiboutian population supported independence.
Period of independent development. On June 27, 1977, the independent state of the Republic of Djibouti was proclaimed. ANLN Chairman Hassan Gulid Aptidon was elected President of the country. Attempts were made to maintain an ethnic balance between the Issa and Afars (in the first two years of independence, the composition of the government changed three times). In March 1979, on the basis of the ANLN, the People's Union for Progress (PUP) party was created, led by H.G. Gulid. After his re-election to a new presidential term in 1981, a one-party regime was introduced in the country. Tensions between the Afars and the Issa in the early The 1900s led to armed conflicts. In 1991–1994, the Afar opposition military group FVED (Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy) opposed the government.
In 1992, under pressure from the opposition and international financial organizations, a multi-party system was introduced. In the 1993 presidential elections, H.G. Gulid won again. The FVED resumed armed confrontation with the authorities. After lengthy negotiations, the government recognized the FVED as a legal party. The moderate wing of the party leadership acted in a single coalition with the ruling NOP in the 1997 parliamentary elections. The radical part of the FVED continued anti-government protests until the signing of a peace treaty between them in May 2001.
In 1999, H.G. Gulid, having received 74.1% of the votes, was re-elected president for a new six-year term. With financial assistance from the IMF, the implementation of economic reforms began, calculated until 2002. The volume of GDP in 2002 amounted to 619 million US dollars, its growth was 3.5%. The inflation rate in 2002 was 2%.
The next parliamentary elections took place on January 10, 2003. In the conditions of a boycott of the elections by some opposition parties (SDA, FVED, etc.), the ruling NOP party won them.
The country is implementing a macroeconomic development program designed for 2001–2010. One of the priority areas of the government’s modern domestic policy is the fight against hunger and poverty reduction. A serious problem is unemployment (among young people it reaches 60%). The main financial donors are France, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Since 2002, close relations with France began to wind down. In the beginning. 2005 authorities raised France rent for the use of military infrastructure up to 30 million euros per year.
Presidential elections are scheduled for April 8, 2005. The incumbent president is the only official candidate. The FWED issued an appeal to the people of Djibouti with a call to “unite against the presidential elections,” and to France and the United States, which have a military presence in Djibouti, to “support the transition to democracy in the country.”
Lyubov Prokopenko
LITERATURE
Danilov P.P. Republic . M., 1989
Encyclopedia of African Peoples. L., 2000
Alwan, Daoud A., and Mibrathu, Y. Histirical Dictionary of Djibouti. Lanham, MD, Scarecrow Press, 2001
The World of Learning 2003, 53rd Edition. L.-N.Y.: Europa Publications, 2002
Zhuravlev V.L. . Directory. M., Publishing company "Oriental Literature", 2003
Africa South of the Sahara. 2004. L.-N.Y.: Europa Publications, 2003 http://www.pridetour.ru/guide/africa
Refugees in Africa. M., Institute for African Studies RAS, 2004

Encyclopedia Around the World. 2008 .

Djibouti

Djibouti
Djibouti is the capital of the East African state of Djibouti. The city was founded in 1888, and since 1892 it has been the administrative center of the French Coast colony of Somalia. Since 1977, Djibouti has been the capital of an independent state. The city's population is about 417,000 inhabitants (the majority of the country's population).
Djibouti is divided into two parts - the port on the Marabout and Heron peninsulas and the commercial, business and residential areas. The neo-Moorish-style presidential palace stands by the ocean, but most of the city's buildings have typical colonial features.
The capital Djibouti is also a major port on the Gulf of Aden. The city's economy is mainly based on the export of Ethiopian goods (the port serves over half of Ethiopia's foreign trade transactions), as well as on servicing and refueling ships passing through the Red Sea. In addition, there are many companies exporting coffee, leather and salt. There is an international airport.
REPUBLIC OF DjiBOUTI
State in northeast Africa. In the east it is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Aden, in the southeast it borders with Somalia, in the south and west - with Ethiopia, in the north - with Eritrea. The area of the country is about 23,200 km2.
The population (1998 estimates) is about 440,700 people, with an average population density of 19 people per km2. Behind last years Djibouti's population grew sharply due to the influx of refugees from Somalia and Ethiopia. Ethnic groups: Somalis - 60%, Afars - 35%, French, Arabs and Italians - 5%. Language: French, Arabic (both state), Afar, Somali. Religion: Sunni Muslims - 94%, Christians - 6%. The capital is Djibouti (417,000 people). The government system is a republic. The head of state is President Hassan Gouled Aptidon (in office since June 24, 1977, re-elected in May 1993). The head of government is Prime Minister Barkat Gurad Hamadu (in office since September 30, 1978). The currency is the Djiboutian franc. Average life expectancy (as of 1998): 47 years for men, 50 years for women. The birth rate (per 1000 people) is 41.8. The mortality rate (per 1000 people) is 14.7.
WITH late XIX century - a French colony called the French Coast of Somalia, since 1946 - an overseas territory of France. In 1967, it was renamed the French Afar and Issa Territory. Djibouti gained independence on June 27, 1977. The country is a member of the UN, the Organization of African Unity and the Arab League.
The country has a very hot and humid climate: the average January temperature is 26°C, the average July temperature is 36°C.

Encyclopedia: cities and countries. 2008 .

Djibouti is a state (area - 22 thousand sq. km) in northeast Africa, between Ethiopia (cm. Ethiopia) and Somalia. It is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Aden and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Indian Ocean with the Red Sea. Until 1977 it was a possession of France (cm. France). The official language is Arabic. The relief of Djibouti is characterized by alternating mountain ranges, lava plateaus with cones of extinct volcanoes. The area is highly seismic and there are hot springs everywhere. The northeast is occupied by the spurs of the Danakil ridge (the highest point is Mount Musa Ali, 2022 m). The rest of the country west of the Gulf of Tadjoura, which cuts deep into the mainland, lies within the Danakil Depression, covered with almost lifeless lavas. The central part of Djibouti is made up of rocky, sandy and clayey plains, the lower areas of which are occupied by salt lakes. The largest of them - Assal - lies 153 m below sea level. Small rivers dry up every year.
The climate is tropical, very hot: average monthly temperatures range from 27 °C to 32 °C, precipitation in most areas ranges from 50 to 100–150 mm per year. The hottest period is from May to September. The country is dominated by deserts and semi-deserts with sparse cover of cereals and shrubs. Only on the wetter slopes of the mountains do light forests of tree-like junipers, acacias, mimosas grow, and in a few oases you can find palm trees. Just as poor animal world(a few oryx antelopes, hyenas and jackals, monkeys in the forests), but the coastal waters are famous for the richness of coral reefs and an abundance of fish.
The country's population (about 496 thousand people) is made up mainly of two peoples - the Afars and the Issa, who largely preserve the traditional way of life and social organization, but there are also quite a lot of non-indigenous residents - Arabs, Somalis, French and other immigrants from Europe. Although state language is Arabic, French is most commonly used in cities. Djibouti City, home to half the population, is divided into two parts: the port on the Marabout and Heron peninsulas and the commercial, business and residential areas. The neo-Moorish-style presidential palace stands by the ocean, but most of the city's buildings have typical colonial features.

Encyclopedia of tourism Cyril and Methodius. 2008 .

Synonyms:

Jeti-Oguz Modern Encyclopedia

I Republic of Djibouti (République de Djibouti), a state on northeast Africa. 22 thousand km2. Population 603.6 thousand people (1996); Issa, Afar, Arabs, Europeans, etc. Urban population 83%. Official languages are Arabic and French.… … encyclopedic Dictionary

Djibouti- (Djibouti), Republic of Djibouti (Republique de Djibouti), state in northeast Africa. Pl. 22 t. km2. Us. 340 vol. (1982). Capital of Djibouti (210 volume, 1983). Before the declaration of independence in 1977, Denmark was owned (since 1896) by France (French coast of Somalia, ... ... Demographic Encyclopedic Dictionary

Republic of Djibouti (Republique de Djibouti), a state in northeast Africa. 22 thousand km². population 565 thousand people (1993), Issa, Afars, Arabs, Europeans, etc. Urban population 81% (1988). The official language is Arabic and French.… … Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

Djibouti, capital (since 1977) of the state of Djibouti. 450 thousand inhabitants. Port in the Gulf of Aden (also serves over 1/2 of Ethiopia's foreign trade operations); international Airport. Shipyard. Founded in 1888, since 1892 the administrative center of the colony... ... Modern encyclopedia

- (Djibouti), state in East. Africa, formerly part of France. Somalia. OK. In 1888, the French founded a small enclave here, using it as a port; in 1892, they made this port city the capital of France. Somalia. The importance of D,... ... The World History

Djibouti- Territory 23.4 thousand sq. km, population 460 thousand people (1986). This is an agricultural country. The main source of livelihood for the rural population is nomadic and semi-nomadic cattle breeding. Seasonal pastures located in Ethiopia are also used. Main export... World sheep farming Read more

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