Djibouti (city)
| Djibouti Jabuuti (Somali) Gabuuti (Afar) جيبوتي (Arabic) |
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| — Capital — | |
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| Nickname(s): Pearl of the Gulf of Tadjoura | |
 Djibouti
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| Coordinates: 11°35′18″N 43°08′42″E / 11.58833°N 43.14500°ECoordinates: 11°35′18″N 43°08′42″E / 11.58833°N 43.14500°E | |
| Country |  Djibouti |
| Region | Djibouti Region |
| Founded | 1888 |
| Area | |
| • Capital | 630 km2 (240 sq mi) |
| • Urban | 100 km2 (40 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 14 m (46 ft) |
| Population (2012) | |
| • Capital | 604,013 |
| • Density | 960/km2 (2,500/sq mi) |
| Time zone | East Africa Time (UTC+3) |
| Area code(s) | +253 |
Djibouti (Arabic: جيبوتي, French: Ville de Djibouti, Somali: Magaalada Jabuuti, Afar: Gabuuti) is the capital of and most populous settlement in the Republic of Djibouti, which is named after it. It is located in the coastal Djibouti Region on the Gulf of Tadjoura. Home to around 600,000 inhabitants, the city contains over 60% of the nation's population. The settlement was founded in 1888 by the French, on land leased from the ruling Somali and Afar Sultans. During the ensuing period, it served as the capital of French Somaliland and its successor the French Territory of the Afars and Issas. The city acts as a gateway between the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, and is a regional and national administrative, cultural, educational and financial hub. Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport is the main airport in Djibouti city, connecting the capital to all major international destinations.
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Overview [edit]
Djibouti City is the capital and largest settlement in Djibouti, situated in the Horn of Africa. Two thirds of the country's population live in the town. The city is located on the Gulf of Tadjoura seaboard, right across from Yemen.
Local features include beaches along its eastern shore and the large Central Market, the national Stade du Ville arena, the Presidential Palace and Hamoudi Mosque. On account of its numerous exotic buildings and structures, the city has been likened to a European settlement and described as a "French Hong Kong in the Red Sea".[1]
Djibouti has the status of being both a city and a state. It is also the seat of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), as well as several other continental and international organizations. The city serves as the nation's cultural and industrial center.
History [edit]
French Somaliland 1896-1967
British Occupation 1942-1943
French Territory of the Afars and the Issas 1967-1977
Republic of Djibouti 1977–present
From 1862 until 1894, the land to the north of the Gulf of Tadjoura was called Obock. It was ruled by Somali and Afar Sultans, local authorities with whom France signed various treaties between 1883 and 1887 to first gain a foothold in the region.[2][3][4]
The French subsequently founded Djibouti city in 1888, with the area at the time uninhabited. A few years later, in 1896, the settlement was made the capital of French Somaliland.[5] It then served as the headquarters of the succeeding French Territory of the Afars and Issas.
When Germany invaded France in 1940, Djibouti became the Vichy French control. In response, the United Kingdom closed the port, but it could not prevent local French from providing information on the passing ship convoys. In December 1942, about 4,000 British troops occupied the town.
Since independence in 1977, the city has served as the administrative and commercial capital of the Republic of Djibouti.
Demographics [edit]
| Historical population | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year | Pop. | ±% |
| 1915 | 14,120 | — |
| 1922 | 21,023 | +48.9% |
| 1931 | 34,300 | +63.2% |
| 1945 | 49,345 | +43.9% |
| 1951 | 59,986 | +21.6% |
| 1964 | 70,600 | +17.7% |
| 1975 | 84,973 | +20.4% |
| 1979 | 100,132 | +17.8% |
| 1983 | 126,385 | +26.2% |
| 1989 | 133,345 | +5.5% |
| 1994 | 169,896 | +27.4% |
| 1999 | 209,142 | +23.1% |
| 2002 | 234,565 | +12.2% |
| 2005 | 431,120 | +83.8% |
| 2012 | 604,013 | +40.1% |
Djibouti is a multi-ethnic city. It has a population of around 604,013 residents (Djiboutians), making it the largest settlement in the country. The city's urban landscape is shaped by many communities.
Although all ethnic groups are represented in the capital, the main languages are Somali and Afar. Arabic and French are also widely spoken and understood. In in the colonial period, European expatriates, primarily French, would also contribute to Djibouti's population. Djiboutian-born descendants of these settlers as well as more recent arrivals from can be found throughout the city.
Religion [edit]
Djibouti's population is predominantly Muslim. Islam is observed by 94% of Djibouti's population, while the remaining 6% follow Christianity.
| Religion | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Muslim | 94% |
| Christianity | 6% |
Geography and climate [edit]
Djibouti City is situated in eastern Djibouti, approximately 19 km (12 mi) southeast of the Somalia border. It is a seaport, with the only sheltered harbour on the western side of the Gulf of Aden. The landscape around the city, along with Djibouti's coastal lowlands, is desert or semi-desert. The city's sandy beaches are popular tourist attractions and include Siesta Beach and Heron Beach.
Djibouti is generally very hot and dry throughout the course of the year. Featuring an arid climate, the city sees on average 131 mm (5.16 in) of rainfall per year. Temperatures range from very warm during the months of December, January and February, to extremely hot in July. In the summer months, temperatures routinely exceed 40 °C (104 °F), with oppressive humidity adding to the uncomfortable conditions.
Sunshine is abundant in the city, averaging eight to ten hours a day year-round. It is lowest during the wet season, when there is some coastal fog and greater cloud coverage as warm air passes over the cool sea surface. This climate zone has warm summers reaching a maximum temperature of 42 °C (107 °F) and summer lows of 32 °C (89 °F). Winters are warm reaching a maximum low of 21 °C (70 °F) and a maximum high of 28 °C (83 °F).
| Climate data for Djibouti City | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °C (°F) | 34 (93) |
34 (93) |
37 (99) |
38 (100) |
44 (111) |
47 (117) |
47 (117) |
47 (117) |
44 (111) |
39 (102) |
36 (97) |
34 (93) |
47 (117) |
| Average high °C (°F) | 28.7 (83.7) |
29.0 (84.2) |
30.2 (86.4) |
32.0 (89.6) |
34.9 (94.8) |
39.0 (102.2) |
41.7 (107.1) |
41.2 (106.2) |
37.2 (99) |
33.1 (91.6) |
30.8 (87.4) |
29.3 (84.7) |
33.93 (93.08) |
| Daily mean °C (°F) | 25.1 (77.2) |
25.7 (78.3) |
27.0 (80.6) |
28.7 (83.7) |
31.0 (87.8) |
34.2 (93.6) |
36.4 (97.5) |
36.0 (96.8) |
33.1 (91.6) |
29.3 (84.7) |
26.9 (80.4) |
25.4 (77.7) |
29.9 (85.83) |
| Average low °C (°F) | 21.5 (70.7) |
22.5 (72.5) |
23.8 (74.8) |
25.4 (77.7) |
27.0 (80.6) |
29.3 (84.7) |
31.1 (88) |
30.6 (87.1) |
28.9 (84) |
25.6 (78.1) |
23.1 (73.6) |
21.6 (70.9) |
25.87 (78.56) |
| Record low °C (°F) | 19 (66) |
18 (64) |
21 (70) |
21 (70) |
21 (70) |
23 (73) |
22 (72) |
22 (72) |
23 (73) |
21 (70) |
18 (64) |
17 (63) |
17 (63) |
| Rainfall mm (inches) | 10.0 (0.394) |
18.8 (0.74) |
20.3 (0.799) |
28.9 (1.138) |
16.7 (0.657) |
0.1 (0.004) |
6.2 (0.244) |
5.6 (0.22) |
3.1 (0.122) |
20.2 (0.795) |
22.4 (0.882) |
11.2 (0.441) |
163.5 (6.436) |
| Avg. rainy days | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 17 |
| Mean monthly sunshine hours | 244.9 | 220.4 | 263.5 | 273.0 | 316.2 | 282.0 | 260.4 | 275.9 | 279.0 | 297.6 | 285.0 | 272.8 | 3,270.7 |
| Source #1: Hong Kong Observatory[6] | |||||||||||||
| Source #2: BBC Weather[7] | |||||||||||||
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 27 |
Djibouti Region [edit]
The Djibouti Region,(Somali: Gobolka Jabuuti) is one of the six regions of Djibouti. It borders the Gulf of Tadjoura to the north and east, and the Arta Region to the south and west. The Djibouti Region is the smallest province in the country, but also the region with the highest population. Containing Djibouti's capital Djibouti City, the province occupies an area of 200 square kilometres.
Administration [edit]
Djibouti city has been the capital of Djibouti since independence in 1977. Situated on the Gulf of Tadjoura, it was the logical choice as the young republic's administrative center. Following independence in 1977, Djibouti city continued with its status as the country's political and cultural hub. It is the seat of the government and home to all the national institutions: the government house, the parliament, ministries, the presidential palace, the constitutional court, judicial bodies and other public organisations.
Culture [edit]
As Djibouti city is the most populous city in Djibouti, it has a vibrant cultural life. For much of recent history, Djibouti city was characterized by roadside markets and small shops that sold a wide variety of goods. The culture of Djibouti city has evolved under the influence of many different peoples and civilizations, such as Somali, Afar, Arab and French. The influence of Islamic culture. Five times every day, Muslims are called to prayer from the minarets of mosques which are scattered around the country. Djibouti city opera is a traditional form of Djiboutian theater well known throughout the nation. The capital is home to a large number of mosques in various architectural styles dating from different historical periods.
Sports [edit]
As in the rest of Djibouti, football is by far the most popular sport. The city is home to Stade du Ville Stadium, which plays host to the Djibouti Cup and to football teams from the Djibouti Premier League. Djibouti city has established a high-profile reputation as a host city of international sporting events. At the beginning of the 20th century a number of sports institutions were established in Djibouti city, particularly in school and college settings.
Media [edit]
Djibouti city has long been a center of media in the country. The first forms of public film display in the city and Djibouti at large were newsreels of key events during the early colonial period. The Djibouti city–based Radio Television of Djibouti is the principal national public service broadcaster. RTD broadcasts 24 hours a day, and can be viewed both within Djibouti and abroad via terrestrial and satellite platforms. Djibouti also hosts modern Djiboutian traditional music. Several newspapers, magazines and printing facilities have their offices in the city. Djibouti is also a center for broadcast media, with a number of radio and television stations broadcasting from there.
Festivals [edit]
Annual events and celebrations of Independence Day (27 June), the Muslim festivals of Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha feature prominently in the city's cultural observances, events, and celebrations. The traditional Independence Day parade is held in the city. Throughout the year, local, national and international events are also held here.
Cuisine [edit]
Djibouti city has long been renowned for its diverse cuisine. Traditional Somali, Afar and Yemeni delicacies are served alongside international dishes; particularly French culinary staples.
Main sights [edit]
Hamoudi Mosque [edit]
The Hamoudi Mosque was built in 1906 by Haji Hamoudi. It is among the older standing masjids in the city. Its size and prominent location have made it a local landmark.
Parks [edit]
Djibouti city has several public parks, the most famous of which is Lagarde Park. It is a popular destination for family gatherings, picnics and sightseeing.
Shopping [edit]
Foreign visitors to Djibouti city usually like to visit the shops in Rue de Bender (Bender Road), where myriad things ranging from traditional fabrics and leather products can be found at bargain prices.
Economy [edit]
As the capital of and largest settlement in Djibouti, most local businesses have their headquarters in Djibouti city. Djibouti Telecom, the largest telecommunications company in the country, is based here. During its existence, Djibouti Airlines also had its head office in the city.[9] Djibouti city is the financial hub to many entrepreneurial industries ranging from construction, retail, import and export, Internet cafes, and companies that process remittances from relatives abroad who send money.
Port operations from the vicinity of Djibouti City are the chief economic activity of Djibouti. The city's port is the terminus for Ethiopian oil transport and export. Increase in railway infrastructure pending a contract agreement in 2012 will further enable Ethiopian and Eritrean oil to reach the capital.
Tourism [edit]
Tourism in Djibouti is centered in the Djibouti region. City landmarks include historic buildings, two important public squares, and the Hall of the People. Many private companies offer organized tours of these sites. The city's sandy beaches are also popular tourist attractions. Among these are Siesta Beach and Heron Beach.
Hotels [edit]
Djibouti city has over 40 hotels. Most are situated within the capital area or along the Djibouti Palace Kempinski's beachfront. Many of the hotels are in a modern Western architectural style, such as the Hotel La Siesta and the Sheraton Djibouti Hotel located on the waterfront.
Transportation [edit]
Air [edit]
The local Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport offers flights to numerous global destinations. As of 2012, the largest services using the airport include Yemenia, Air France, Flydubai, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines and Kenya Airways. It serve is a international flights. It is the largest airport in Djibouti and serves as a major gateway for travellers to the Horn of Africa and the world. Located approximately 6 kilometres (5 mi) from the city centre, the airport was opened in 1948. Originally a modest-sized airport, the facility grew considerably in size in the post-independence period after numerous successive renovation projects. the airport accounts for almost a Hundred percent of all air traffic in Djibouti. Outbound international travel from Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport accounts for the majority of all air passengers traveling to and from Djibouti. Because of its strategic location, the facility is a civil aviation hub for the rest of the country. This makes for a large number of departures and arrivals, and it is not unusual for flights to be delayed in the holding pattern before landing. Djibouti city is improving its international connections, and numerous non-stop flights provided by various airlines connect the area with other global destinations.
Road [edit]
Roads leading out of Djibouti city connect it to other national localities and to Somalia and Ethiopia. Public transportation is provided through buses stationed at the Djibouti City Bus Service Enterprise. Green and white share taxis are also available, though they are less frequently used. The city at large serves as a point of intersection for the main roads and highways linking different parts of the country. It is one of the most accessible cities in the country, where one can find public and private transportation 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. A significant number of the city's residents are dependent on the city's informal minibuses and taxis. The main bus hub in Djibouti city is the Central Bus Station, located in the crossing of Rue de Bender.
Sea [edit]
Djibouti city leads the country in maritime traffic and serves as a major seaport. Daily shipments bring in vehicles, foodstuffs and electronic goods, among other items. The port is also used for international trade, for fishing, and for travel by ferry to the cities of Obock and Tadjoura. The port is a hub for ships in the west of the Gulf of Aden: it is located along one of the busiest shipping corridors in the world.
Railway [edit]
Built between 1894 and 1915 during the colonial period, the Ethio-Djibouti Railways connected the city with Addis Ababa. Although the railway is no longer operational, there are plans for the construction of a new modern rail line in the near future. Long-distance rail lines connect Djibouti city with all of southern major cities of Djibouti and with many cities in neighboring Ethiopia.
Education [edit]
Long a national centre of education, Djibouti city is home to many elementary and high schools. The University of Djibouti, established in 1977, is also based here. Public primary and secondary schools in the capital are run by the Ministry of Education.
Military [edit]
Djibouti City is home to the Armoured Regiment Djibouti. Military only active duty installation within the city.
Sister cities [edit]
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Notable people [edit]
- Yacin Elmi Bouh, Djiboutian politician
- Abdourahman Waberi, novelist
- Dileita Mohamed Dileita, Prime Minister of Djibouti
References [edit]
- ^ Kevin Anglin, Becca Blond and Jean-Bernard Carillet, Africa on a Shoestring (London: Lonely Planet, 2004), p. 698.
- ^ Raph Uwechue, Africa year book and who's who, (Africa Journal Ltd.: 1977), p.209.
- ^ Hugh Chisholm (ed.), The encyclopædia britannica: a dictionary of arts, sciences, literature and general information, Volume 25, (At the University press: 1911), p.383.
- ^ A Political Chronology of Africa, (Taylor & Francis), p.132.
- ^ World Book, Inc, The World Book Encyclopedia, Volume 1, (World Book: 2007)
- ^ "Climatological Information for Djibouti, Djibouti". Hong Kong Observatory. Retrieved 15 October 2012.
- ^ "BBC Weather : Djibouti". Retrieved 11 July 2012.
- ^ Aden Climate Guide - weather2travel.com
- ^ "Contact Us." Djibouti Airlines. 1 June 2006. Retrieved on 20 February 2011. "REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI DJIBOUTI AIRLINES HEAD OFFICE-PLACE LAGARDE."
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