Djibouti

I worked in this country for 6 months; it was my introduction to Africa and for that reason, it has a special place in my heart. Someday in the far-off future, I would like to visit again to see how much has changed.

The Republic of Djibouti is ethnically diverse, due to its strategic location at the crossroads of trade and commerce. Its population consists of 652,000 citizens. Sixty percent are Somali, thirty-five percent are Afar, and French, Arab, and other minorities make up the remaining five percent. The use of khat is widespread, to the extent that Djibouti has been called the world’s first futuristic “narco-state,” a la Brave New World.
       

The Somali ethnic component in Djibouti is mainly composed of the Issas, who form the majority and rule the nation, and the Gadabuursi and Isaaq, all of whom are closely related as Dir subclans. The Issas form part of the ciise waraabe, while the Gadabuursi and Isaaq are part of the Mahe Dir, Mohammed Hiniftire. Other Somalis in Djibouti include Issas from the Ethiopian Somali Region and from northern Somalia.

Almost all of the people of Djibouti are Muslim, only a small percentage (6 %) are Christian (mostly Catholic), notably the Europeans.

Although French and Arabic are the official languages, Somali and Afar are widely spoken.

The bulk of Djibouti’s people are urban residents; the remainder are herders. Health, sanitary, and education services are relatively poor in both urban and rural areas.
       

Scenic drive from Djibouti City to Tadjoura. Scenery in Tadjoura is beautiful. White Sands Beach in Tadjoura is a must to stop at. Le Golfe hotel is pricey but a great place to stay. Would recommend a stop at Lac Assal.

Djibouti City is overpriced, especially if you are not a local.

Would not recommend visiting Ali-Sabieh, Obock or Dikhil.

So, it’s decided that the location for the project will be Chad, not Djibouti. I am thus removing Djibouti from my list.