Interview:Habon Abdillahi What are the construction sector’s key strengths and drivers that underpin growth? HABON ABDILLAHI: The construction sector’s main strengths are the country’s steady GDP growth and political stability. Between 2018 and 2022 this expansion has facilitated a cycle of construction in both the private and public sectors. Djibouti Vision 2035 and President Ismaïl Omar…
Interview:Amina Abdi Aden What has been done to facilitate private participation in the affordable housing segment? AMINA ABDI ADEN: It is important that the private sector is encouraged to engage in real estate projects, especially for middle-income households. To that end, legislation was enacted in July 2013 to regulate real estate development, facilitating the emergence of several private…
Djibouti’s economy grew by an average of over 6% per year in the decade leading up to the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Investment in transport and port infrastructure, enabled by the rollout of business-friendly regulations and external financing, has been a key driver of this growth. These efforts reflect long-term objectives to leverage the country’s geostrategic location and deepwater port…
As a key driver of long-term socio-economic growth in recent years, Djibouti has focused on investing large volumes of capital in infrastructure projects, including real estate. Other priorities within the Djibouti Vision 2035 long-term development agenda include improved living conditions through the construction of affordable accommodation and enhanced access to quality housing, improved sanitation…
Amid efforts to reduce the carbon footprint associated with the construction industry, there is increasing recognition of the benefits of sustainable and regenerative architecture as a means of lowering emissions. According to the “2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction” report published by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the sector is one of the world’s biggest polluters…
Facilitating access to locally produced construction inputs forms part of the government’s long-term development agenda, Djibouti Vision 2035. The blueprint prioritises the industrial production of construction inputs, alongside other building materials, to meet the needs of the local market for construction and public works. Such developments could help reduce the reliance on imports and lower building…
In light of its infrastructure push, construction is among the most dynamic sectors of Djibouti’s economy. Railways and road development have strengthened connectivity with East African neighbours, fostering regional trade and economic integration. The country's strategic port infrastructure leverages its advantageous position along major trade routes, attracting investment and driving economic growth.…
By leveraging its strategic location on the Horn of Africa and as a gateway to key landlocked countries such as Ethiopia, Djibouti is well-positioned to act as a nexus of trade between Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The government's Djibouti Vision 2035 strategy outlines key initiatives to attract foreign direct investment, boost social and human capital development, improve private sector enga
In 2008, for the first time in history, more than half of humanity was living in urban areas. Perhaps the most remarkable observation about this trend is the speed at which it has happened: as recently as 1900 urban areas accounted for 13% of the global population. Towns and cities are seen as the crucibles of opportunity for many rural dwellers. The UN estimates that by 2030 urban areas will…
Large investment volumes have been stimulating construction activity, notably in port expansions, road development and the establishment of new power stations. These projects are expected to drive growth in both the sector and the overall economy. In addition, the need to improve living conditions for the country’s population is providing motivation for a range of urban projects. Hence, the authorities…
