Djibouti

Introduction to Djibouti

The Republic of Djibouti (Arabic: : جيبوتي, Ǧībūtī) is a country in eastern Africa, located in the Horn of Africa. Djibouti is bordered by Eritrea in the north, Ethiopia in the west and south, and Somalia in the southeast. The remainder of the border is formed by the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. On the other side of the Red Sea, on the Arabian Peninsula, 20 km from the coast of Djibouti, is Yemen.

Cultural notes about Djibouti

Culture of Djibouti - The Republic of Djibouti is ethnically diverse, due to its strategic location at the crossroads of trade and commerce. Its population consists of 457,130 citizens. Sixty percent are Somali, thirty percent are Afar, and French, Arab, and other minorities make up the remaining ten percent.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Djibouti

Street crime occurs. Canadians should exercise caution when travelling to remote areas of the country, including the borders with Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia. The presence of Djiboutian security forces is limited in these areas.

Do not show signs of affluence and ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure. Avoid walking alone after dark.

As terrorist attacks in Kenya demonstrate, the possibility for further attacks puts Canadians at increased risk in east Africa, including Djibouti. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places. Exercise appropriate caution, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners such as hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping areas. Canadians should monitor local developments, avoid demonstrations, as well as register and remain in regular contact with the Consulate of Canada in Djibouti (see below).

Overland travel should be undertaken only during daylight hours in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with sufficient water. Canadians should contact the Canadian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Consulate of Canada in Djibouti (see below), or local authorities for the latest security information prior to overland travel.

Elections will be held in April 2005. Public gatherings and demonstrations may increase until the elections are held. Canadians should exercise caution, monitor local news reports, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.