Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Djibouti maintains good relations with Ethiopia and Somaliland, which are considered
as 'partners'. However, it clashed with Eritrea, its northern neighbour, in June 2008. At
the time of writing, the borders between the two countries remained closed.
The Culture
Djiboutians are charming, respectful and very hospitable people. This has its origins in the
traditionally nomadic culture of the two main ethnic groups, the Afars and Issas. Despite
an increasing tendency towards a more sedentary lifestyle, most Djiboutians living in
towns retain strong links with their nomadic past.
One of the most striking features in Djibouti is the overwhelming presence of
qat
(leaf
chewed as a stimulant). The life of most Djiboutian males seems to revolve entirely
around the consumption of this mild narcotic. Every day,
qat
consumers meet their circle
of friends in the
mabraz
(
qat
den) to
brouter
(graze). Only 10% of women are thought to
consume the plant regularly.
Of Djibouti's estimated 900,000 inhabitants, about 35% are Afars and 60% are Issas.
Both groups are Muslim. The rest of the population is divided between Arabs and
Europeans. The south is predominantly Issa, while the north is mostly Afar. Ethnic ten-
sions between Afars and Issas have always dogged Djibouti. These tensions came to a
head in 1991, when Afar rebels launched a civil war in the north. A peace accord was
brokered in 1994, but ethnic hostility has not completely waned.
Arts & Crafts
Dance is arguably the highest form of culture in Djibouti, along with oral literature and
poetry. Some dances celebrate major life events, such as birth, marriage or circumcision.
If you are looking for handicrafts, the traditional Afar and Somali knives and the very
attractive Afar woven straw mats (known in Afar as
fiddima
) are among the finest
products.
