The Djibouti economy is based on service activities connected with the country’s strategic location as a deepwater port on the Red Sea. Three-fourths of its inhabitants live in the capital city, while the remainder are mostly nomadic herders. The country provides services as both a transit port and an international trans-shipment and refuelling centre. Imports, exports and re-exports – primarily from neighbouring Ethiopia – represent 70% of port activity at the container terminal.

Name Republic of Djibouti

Capital Djibouti

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament National Assembly of Djibouti

Parliament website www.assemblee-nationale.dj

Languages French, Arabic, Somali, Afar

Area 23 200 km²

Population 810 179 (July 2014 est)

Imports Foods, beverages, transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum products

Exports Re-exports, hides and skins, coffee

Currency Djiboutian franc

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages