Dijibouti

Dijibouti

The Republic of Dijbouti, is a small country located on the North East coast of Africa, commonly referred as a region called, The Horn of Africa. It is a former French colony and majority religion is Islam. Dijibouti was once part of greater Ethiopia at one point, and also a French colony.



Population

The latest population estimates Dijibouti to have approximately 1m inhabitants (846,000 in 2016) and continues to have high birth rates resulting in fast population growth. Djibouti is a key transit point for migrants and asylum seekers heading for the Gulf States and beyond. Each year some hundred thousand people, mainly Ethiopians and some Somalis, journey through Djibouti, usually to the port of Obock, to attempt a sea crossing to Yemen and vice versa.

Wealth

The net GDP in 2017 is estimated as approximately bn, a significant increase from 2006, boasted by its location between the gulf states and Africa, in which is a major shipping lane.

Land mass

Total landmass is 23,200 sq kiliometres, according to the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency).

Military

There is no conscription and individuals can join the military at age 18 onwards. Most military and defence hardware has been estimated as over 20 years old, and not likely to be able to withstand an assault from another power, with a modern military machine, in the event of a conflict arising. Its strategic importance, however, and regional rivalries have prevented any of the neighbouring countries laying claim to the territory.