Country Profile: Djibouti
Djibouti, strategically situated at the crossroads of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, serves as a vital maritime hub for trade, especially for neighboring Ethiopia. With a population of over one million, this small nation exhibits a rich cultural tapestry with a majority ethnic Somali population alongside the Afar. The economy is heavily dependent on services, particularly port activities and military installations from various countries, including France and the US. Djibouti has transitioned from a colonial past to a presidential republic, marked by a history of political tension and recent attempts at democratic governance.
Geography
Djibouti is located in Eastern Africa, bordered by the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. The country features a desert climate, characterized by coastal plains and a central mountain range. Its strategic location near global shipping lanes enhances its importance as a trade hub.
- Total Area: 23,200 sq km
- Elevation: Highest point at 2,021 m (Moussa Ali) and lowest point at -155 m (Lac Assal), the lowest point in Africa.
- Coastline: 314 km
- Natural Resources: Includes geothermal power, gold, and marble.
- Climate: Torrid, dry desert conditions.
People and Society
Djibouti's estimated population is 1,013,703 (2025), with a life expectancy at birth of 65.9 years. The majority of the population identifies as Sunni Muslim, while French and Arabic are the official languages. The nation has a youthful demographic, with a median age of 26.7 years.
- Urban Population: 78.6% (2023)
- Ethnic Composition: Somali (60%), Afar (35%)
- Growth Rate: 1.84% (2025 est.)
- Birth Rate: 21.46 births/1,000 (2025 est.)
- Infant Mortality Rate: 44.3 deaths/1,000 live births (2025 est.)
- Total Fertility Rate: 2.09 children/woman (2025 est.)
Economy
Djibouti's economy hinges on its strategic ports that facilitate 95% of Ethiopia's trade. It is classified as food import-dependent, with a significant military presence bolstering the local economy. The GDP per capita was approximately $6,800 in 2024, reflecting resilience despite recent global disruptions.
- Real GDP Growth Rate: 6% (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 25.9% (2024 est.)
- Exports: $5.25 billion (2024 est.)
- Imports: $4.765 billion (2024 est.)
- Public Debt: 33.7% of GDP (2016 est.)
- Labor Force: Approximately 265,200 (2024 est.)
Government
Djibouti operates as a presidential republic with a history of authoritarian governance transitioning towards multiparty elections. Current President Ismail Omar Guelleh has been in office since 1999, following a series of contested elections.
- Capital: Djibouti City
- Administrative Divisions: 6 districts
- Suffrage Age: 18 years
- Legislature: Unicameral National Assembly with 65 seats.
- Latest Election: April 9, 2021 with Guelleh re-elected for a fifth term.
Military and Security
The Djibouti Armed Forces include land, naval, and air components with a focus on regional stability and counterterrorism. Djibouti hosts multiple foreign military bases, contributing to its role in international security operations.
- Active Personnel: Estimated 10,000-12,000 (2025)
- Military Expenditures: 3.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
- Military Age: Ages 18-26 for voluntary service.
- Deployment: Approximately 1,500 personnel in Somalia (AUSSOM) (2025).
Energy
Djibouti faces challenges in energy access, with about 65% of its population having electricity. The country is working to diversify its energy generation sources.
- Installed Capacity: 210,000 kW (2023 est.)
- Energy Consumption: Approximately 585 million kWh (2023 est.)
- Electrification Rates: 72.8% in urban areas and 36.6% in rural areas.
Environment
Djibouti contends with environmental issues such as water scarcity, deforestation, and desertification. Its participation in international environmental agreements demonstrates a commitment to addressing these challenges.
- Total Water Resources: 300 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
- Municipal Solid Waste: 115,000 tons generated annually (2024 est.)
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 685,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Transportation
Djibouti has a well-developed transportation network, essential for its role as a trade conduit in the region. The country features a significant number of ports and a railway connecting it to Ethiopia.
- Airports: 10 (2025)
- Railway Length: 97 km (segment of Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway)
- Merchant Marine: 40 ships (2023)
- Key Ports: Djibouti and Doraleh.
Communications
The communications infrastructure is developing, with a growing number of mobile cellular and internet users, enhancing connectivity within the country.
- Internet Users: 65% of the population (2023 est.)
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 559,000 (2023 est.)
- Fixed Line Subscriptions: 28,700 (2023 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,013,703 | Est. 2025 |
| Area | 23,200 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $7.995 billion | Est. 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 25.9% | Est. 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 21.46 births/1,000 | Est. 2025 |
| Life Expectancy | 65.9 years | Est. 2024 |
| Electrification Rate | 65% | Total population (2022 est.) |
| Military Expenditures | 3.5% of GDP | 2019 est. |
| Urban Population | 78.6% | Total population (2023) |
| Export Volume | $5.25 billion | Est. 2024 |
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