Chapter 4: Red Sea, Horn of Africa
Djibouti: Overview
Facts
/ Geography, Climate / Cities
/ Posture Statement Excerpt
Leadership
/ System Essentials / Infrastructure
/ Population / Fielded Forces
/ Table of Contents
A small desert country located at the south entrance of the Red Sea on the Horn of Africa, Djibouti is split by a central mountain range which runs between a coastal plain and an inland plateau.
Djibouti's climate is hot and arid with negligible rainfall.
Djibouti's importance stems from its strategic location at the entrance to the Bab al Mandeb. The country's airfield served as part of a strategic air bridge for operations in Somalia, and we have an ongoing ship visit program. Djibouti's pro-Western orientation and long-standing French presence afford the U.S. important access to support facilities for crisis response.
Tribal friction continues between the Afar rebels in the north and the Issas who largely control the government. Although civil war brought increased lawlessness to the country, conditions are now returning to normal. In addition to domestic problems, Djibouti (like Ethiopia) serves as a safe haven for Somalis fleeing violence and anarchy to the south. The government has continuing requirements for international aid organizations to assist in temporary relief and shelter for these refugees. The historic instability of Djibouti's neighboring countries continues to place an increased burden on its ability to develop economically and politically.
While the Djiboutian military continues its demobilization efforts and the government strives to improve its economic outlook, the U.S. continues to maintain a modest security assistance program aimed at complementing France's leading role. Current assistance is limited to spare parts for vehicles, limited engineer equipment, and a modest IMET program. In FY95 the U.S. will begin a military civic action program designed to "train the trainer" in basic skills.