Djibouti’s Independence Day is on June 27. It is a national holiday in Djibouti where we celebrate the declaration of independence of the country from France in 1977. The occasion is celebrated by hosting the Djibouti national flag, parades, speeches from the President and the Prime Minister, and various cultural and entertainment programs. Djibouti is a country located in the Horn of Africa. They share borders with Somaliland, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and the Red Sea. The country has a history of sacrifice and struggles for independence. The story of independence and the events that followed would be a major topic of discussion throughout the country during this time.
History of Djibouti Independence Day
Djibouti is an African country located on the continent’s northeastern border. The geographical area is also known as the Horn of Africa due to the shape of the region. Djibouti is a multi-ethnic nation with a population of just over 900,000. This is the smallest population in mainland Africa. Somali is the national language, and Islam is its official religion. French and Arabic are also official languages in the country.
The history of Djibouti starts with the beginning of human history. Some settlements go back to the Neolithic age that presumably migrated from the Nile valley. There is archeological evidence for pottery, farming, animal husbandry, and settlements. The region enjoyed a different climate during those times. It was populated by a rich population of fauna and flora.
The Medieval history of the region dates back to 2500 B.C. It is considered the most likely location of the land of Punt. The Punt is a place extensively mentioned throughout Egyptian history. The area is further said to have witnessed the reigns of Macrobians during 247 B.C. and the Kingdom of Adal from 900 to 1285 A.D., which brought Islam to the continent. It was then followed by the Ifat Sultanate (1285 to 1415), the Adal Sultanate (1415 to 1577), and the Ottoman Eyalet (1577 to 1867).
The area came under French control in 1888. The entire area was known as Somaliland. By 1892, Djibouti became the capital of French Somaliland. Djibouti was later acquired by Ethiopia after a treaty between France and Ethiopia. In 1977, Djibouti became an independent nation.
Djibouti Independence Day timeline
Zeila, a city in the kingdom of Adal, embraces Islam as the major religion.
France acquires the port of Obock.
A railway line connects the port of Djibouti with Ethiopia and reaches Addis Ababa.
Djibouti creates an overseas territory within the French Union with its legislature and representation in the French parliament.
Djibouti Independence Day FAQs
How does Djibouti make money?
The economy of Djibouti enjoys a strategic location on the Red Sea. Djibouti’s economy works by providing services as both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center in the Horn of Africa.
What is Djibouti's largest export?
Djibouti works by re-exporting salt, hides, beans, and cereals. Somalia is the most important export partner (74% of total exports), followed by Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt.
What should I wear in Djibouti?
The climate of Djibouti is hot and the dress code is very flexible. Due to the weather, suits and ties are not advisable. Traditional wear or simple casual wear is best for the place.
Djibouti Independence Day Activities
Wear Djibouti Colors
Buy a dress with the same color theme as Djibouti flags with your friends. Post a pin on social media wishing all the people of Djibouti.
Learn the Djibouti National Anthem
Learn, sing and share the Djibouti national anthem on social media. Also, add the history of the country and how amazing it is in the post.
Purchase Djibouti stamps
Start a stamp collection and collect Djibouti stamps for this collection. You can even purchase them online. Share your collection with your friends too.
5 Interesting Facts About Djibouti
Saline lake
Lake Assal is the world's third-most saline water body.
National animal
Elk is the national animal of Djibouti.
The population of two tribes
The Afar and Issa tribes make up most of the population of Djibouti.
Djibouti’s Hydrothermal Field
Dallol hydrothermal field is popularly known for its high temperatures as well as the always-changing colors that change in a split second to orange, yellow, and green, which are breathtaking.
The third-smallest nation
Djibouti is the third-smallest country in Africa by land area.
Why We Love Djibouti Independence Day
It has a very old history
We love long histories, and Djibouti has a very old and very rich history. It starts from the neolithic age and still survives.
It’s rich in biodiversity
Djibouti is a small nation. But for a small nation, Djibouti has rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. It is a place that captures the attention of nature lovers.
We love freedom
Djibouti is celebrating independence day. We love freedom, and we love it more when people achieve independence. Djibouti is an inspiring place indeed.
Djibouti Independence Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | June 27 | Friday |
2026 | June 27 | Saturday |
2027 | June 27 | Sunday |
2028 | June 27 | Tuesday |
2029 | June 27 | Wednesday |