Key Facts about Djibouti

Key Facts about Djibouti

• Location: Djibouti is located on the northeast coast of the Horn of Africa.
• Borders: It is bounded by Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the west and southwest, and Somalia to the south.
  • It also has coastlines on the Red Seaand the Gulf of Eden to the east.
• It got its name as Djibouti when it gained independence from France on June 27, 1977.
• Capital: Its capital is Djibouti city.
• Climate: It has a dry tropical climate.
• Geography: It has a diverse and rugged landscape, ranging from Coastal Plains, Mountains, low desert plains and plateaus.
  • Coastal Plain: The coastal plain extends along the eastern edge of Djibouti, bordering the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
  • Mountain Ranges: The main mountain ranges are in the north and central parts.
    • The Goda Mountains is located in the country.
  • The Hanle Plain and Grand Bara Desert are notable features.
  • Danakil Depression: It is located in central and southern Djibouti.
    • It is a hot, dry and harsh region with saline lakes and salt pans.
  • Lakes: It features two significant Lake that are – Lake Assal and Lake Abbe.
    • Lake Assal holds the distinction of being the lowest point in Africa. It is also known for its highly saline water and extensive salt flats.
    • It has no permanent, year-round rivers above ground.
• Unique geological features: It lies at the triple junction of the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and East African Rift systems.
  • Much of its land is covered with basalt formed from past volcanic activity.
  • The country experiences frequent minor earthquakes and significant seismic and geothermal activity.
• Highest point:  Mount Moussa Ali is the highest point in Djibouti.

About Horn of Africa The Horn of Africa is the easternmost extension of Africa. It is also known as the Somali Peninsula and is the fourth largest peninsula in the world. It comprises the countries of Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Strategic location: This area is strategically located along the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean. This position has made it a historical hub for trade and cultural exchange between Africa and Southwest Asia.