What Is The Capital Of Djibouti?

Djibouti City is the capital city of the country of Djibouti. It has the second largest economy in the Horn of Africa after Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Djibouti City, located in the coastal region of Djibouti, has a population of 529,000 people. Due to its location next to the world’s busiest coastal lanes, Djibouti has earned the name “The Pearl of the Gulf of Tadjoura.” Ships are refueled and transshipment is done from this lane. Djibouti is the port used to import and export goods from Ethiopia. Djibouti City was founded by the French in 1888 and was made a settlement for French Somaliland in 1896. Djibouti City covers an area of 26 square miles.

Demographics

Djibouti City has a multi-ethnic community, with Somalis and Afars being the largest communities residing in the city. Besides the two communities, there are other ethnic communities, some from the neighboring countries like Ethiopia, but they communicate in either Arabic or French languages. Other immigrants speak in Hindu, Amharic, Greek, or Omani Arabic. When the French discovered Djibouti, it had no inhabitants. As the railway to Ethiopia was under construction, settlement began in the area where the present-day city of Djibouti is located and grew to exceed the population of neighboring Ethiopia. Djibouti City’s population grew rapidly to become the center of exports from Southern Ethiopia and Ogaden and a trading hub for Harari coffee and khat.

Culture

Djibouti City is multi-cultural city having people from diverse cultures and traditions. Djibouti City does not have a cultural day since there are many diverse cultures. The cuisine offered in the city is also from diverse traditions and culture which also features international dishes. Popular dishes in the city include seafood, meat, and a dish from the Yemen culture called the Mandi which is offered mostly at lunchtimes. Djibouti’s Independence Day is celebrated on June 27th. However, there are religious festivals observed annually like Eid Al-Fitri.

Economy

Since Djibouti City is the capital city, many companies have based their headquarters in the city such as the telecommunication company and the Djibouti Airlines. Djibouti City port acts as the main economic driver for oil products from Ethiopia which are exported from the port. The railway also serves in the transportation of oil from both Eritrea and Ethiopia into the capital city. Djibouti City boasts great beaches which act as tourist attractions. Transport is by public or private means and the main bus hub is the Central Bus Station in Djibouti City.

Transportation

Apart from road transport, Djibouti’s Ambouli International Airport is the second largest airport in the horn of Africa. The sea is also a major transportation system with the container terminal having numerous activities like importing and exporting, refueling, and being a transshipment hub in the region. The railway that serves Ethiopia and Eritrea also helps in the transportation of passengers and goods such as oil products and Khat from neighboring countries.