Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in Djibouti. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions in Djibouti. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s Djibouti country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private- sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Djibouti at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

Crime Threats

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Djibouti as being a MEDIUM-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Most reported incidents are crimes of opportunity (e.g. pickpocketing, petty theft) for immediate gain. Panhandlers and street children target foreigners for petty theft by creating distractions. Exercise caution in congested areas (e.g. the central market, the city center, downtown neighborhoods known locally as quartiers), especially after dark. Avoid isolated areas, particularly along the urban coastline.

The large number of illegal immigrants/refugees and unemployed Djiboutians loitering downtown and in other areas expatriates frequent may allow criminals to roam undetected. People in congested areas (e.g. port, market areas, city center) are at greatest risk for street crime.

Do not to give money to people who wash your cars without permission, or who watch your car while you park. U.S. nationals are generally the only people who give money, and this leads to further targeting. Do not give money to peddlers and street children, as this can easily lead to being swarmed by additional individuals, who can become aggressive.

Criminals have shown a willingness to break into vehicles to gain access to high-value items such as cellular telephones, and other electronic devices. Vehicle theft is on the rise over the past year. Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind.

There have been burglaries attempted against expatriate residences in proximity to U.S. embassy housing in recent years. Perpetrators generally lack the sophistication to overcome robust residential security measures (e.g. substantial doors, grille work, static guards). Crimes have occurred where residents left windows and doors unlocked and where no guard was present. Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security.

The abuse of hashish, khat (a legal, socially acceptable drug that tends to increase aggressiveness among users during the first 30-40 minutes it is consumed) and more recently the introduction of marijuana may exacerbate criminal activity.

Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

The Embassy has received reports of several scams in recent years:

• One scam involves locals approaching U.S. nationals and falsely claiming to work for the U.S. military or as local employees of the U.S. Embassy. They claim to have car problems and ask either for a ride somewhere or to borrow money. Such individuals are most likely not associated with the U.S. military or the U.S. Embassy, but use the purported association to exploit unsuspecting targets. • Another scam involves someone who waits behind your vehicle as you back out of a parking space and purposely runs into or drives their bicycle/motorcycle into the back of your vehicle. The impact and noise frighten most people. Upon seeing someone lying on the ground and writhing in pain, most assume that this person was in their blind spot and that they have hit and hurt them. Most of these scammers will ask for money for medical bills, etc. This is a scam; get the local police involved immediately and explain to them that you believe it to be a scam.

Cybersecurity Issues

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband?

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Driving conditions are hazardous throughout Djibouti. Road surfaces outside the capital are greatly improved from previous years, but roads are still precarious in many parts of the country. The government, with assistance from the EU, has constructed a paved road linking Tadjoura and Obock, significantly increasing the level of safety and ease of travel on the north coast. Roads outside Djibouti city lack proper lighting. Travel only during daylight hours. Very few areas in the country feature roadside assistance.

You must have a U.S. driver’s license or International Driving Permit to drive in Djibouti. The use of cell phones while driving is illegal. Exercise caution at intersections; drivers often run red lights and do not stop at intersections. Third-party liability insurance is mandatory, and you must display the insurance sticker. Reputable car rental firms can include the services of a driver.

Hazards include poorly constructed roads, lack of safety rails, poor vehicle conditions, slow-moving truck traffic, and wayward pedestrians/animals. Drivers should be aware of unsafe road surfaces, unskilled drivers, and the presence of non-roadworthy vehicles on all roads. Many drivers consume khat, which can lead to erratic, unpredictable, and unsafe driving behavior drivers; be especially alert when driving between 1500-1700. Drivers frequently change lanes into oncoming traffic without looking, and expect oncoming vehicles to get out of their way even though they are in violation of recognized traffic rules. Obey posted speed limits (where present) and always drive defensively. Do not drive night, especially as street lighting is limited and frequently non-existent. Pedestrians do not look when crossing the road, and frequently walk out into traffic. Animals (e.g. goats, camels, stray dogs) often wander into traffic. Nomads in rural areas sometimes place rocks on the roads to stop vehicles and demand water/transportation, providing an opportunity for theft of high-value items from stopped vehicles. Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Vehicle collisions remain the Embassy’s number one safety concern. Visitors involved in traffic accidents should attempt to exchange insurance information with the other party and summon police assistance if possible. Do not make restitution at the scene, especially if livestock or pedestrians are involved. Be wary of crowds gathering at the scene of an accident, and depart immediately if you perceive a threat to your safety. The number of serious vehicle accidents has steadily grown over the past five years, as the number of vehicles, to include large truck traffic along the Djibouti-Ethiopia corridor, has increased.

As Djibouti is the primary port for goods entering Ethiopia, there are numerous large trucks transporting goods at all hours. These trucks vary in condition from well-maintained to poorly maintained and operated. Truck accidents along the Djibouti-Galafi road are common, and drivers will attempt to pass slow-moving trucks on inclines where there is limited visibility. This greatly increases the likelihood of head on collisions. While the government recently paved the primary truck route from Djibouti to Galafi, the main border crossing into Ethiopia, some areas continue to have major potholes, with large sections unpaved or damaged. This highway has reduced the time to travel between the two cities, and has significantly improved driving conditions. However, the improved road resulted in increased speeds and higher likelihood of serious accidents.

Stay on paved roads. Unmarked land mines exist in the border region with Eritrea, though most landmines have been marked or cleared from border regions.

An unsolved border dispute with Eritrea has led to restrictions on travel to many areas in the north. In many instances, approval from the government is required to travel north of Obock. There have been some communications between governments, and tensions have lowered, but work on resolution to the issues continues.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Conditions

Public transportation is unreliable and unsafe due to unsafe driving practices and crimes of opportunity. Hotels and airports shuttle services are a safe alternative.

The capital city and the towns of Obock and Tadjoura have intercity bus and ferry services. An electric limited rail, replacing the old Ethio-Djibouti railway, began operation in 2016 with freight service.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport (JIB) services direct flights to regional locations as well as major international hubs such as Paris, Istanbul, Doha, and Dubai. As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Djibouti, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Djibouti’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. There have been several incidents involving departures from Somalia. Due to security concerns, U.S. embassy personnel may not take commercial flights originating in Somalia that stop in Djibouti as part of a multi-leg flight. Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Be particularly vigilant at the airport, where criminals use luggage tag information to present themselves as pre-arranged drivers. Use caution when transporting any items in checked bags that resemble weapons (e.g. toy guns, knives).

Maritime Security Concerns

The threat of piracy remains significant. Pirates have held foreigners hostage for ransom. Reports of attacks on local fishing boats in Djiboutian coastal waters continue. Djiboutian military ships are clearly marked, and may turn away small craft or divert vessels to verify citizenship of passengers. Use established sea lanes, and pilot vessels in groups to reduce the risk of hijack. See the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau. In case of maritime emergency, contact the Djiboutian Coast Guard or Djiboutian Navy on UHF marine channel 16, or the Yemeni Coast Guard on channel 16 or at +967-1-562- 402.

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Djibouti as being a MEDIUM-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Civil unrest or armed conflict in the neighboring countries of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Yemen, and Somalia affect the security situation in Djibouti. A large number of refugees and asylum seekers from across the region, including Somali refugees and asylum seekers from Ethiopia, have settled in the Ali Addeh Camp near Ali Sabieh, and refugees from Yemen continue to settle in the Markazi refugee camp near Obock.

Djibouti's proximity to multiple conflict-torn states, and the government's limited capacity to monitor border controls raises concern over illegal immigration and the possibility of cross-border terrorism.

U.S. citizens in Djibouti should evaluate their personal security situation in light of specific threats from terrorism. The U.S. government continues to receive information about potential terrorist threats aimed at Western (including U.S.) and Djiboutian interests. Terrorist acts can include suicide operations, bombings (to include car bombings), kidnappings, attacks on civil aviation, and attacks on maritime vessels in/near Djiboutian ports. Attacks may target official government facilities, embassies, and military installations, and soft targets. While Djiboutian officials continue to pursuit those responsible for previous terrorist attacks, many of those involved remain at large and operate in the region. Review personal crisis response plans, remain vigilant, and exercise caution in areas Westerners frequent.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Djibouti as being a LOW-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Protests and clashes with Djiboutian security have increased in areas within the city of Djibouti and in other towns across the country. Some protests involve reaction to parliamentary elections in 2018, while others have been due to a presidential security decree (implemented after the Paris 2015 terrorist attacks) prohibiting mass public gatherings. More recently demonstrations have focused on economic disparity and the lack of employment opportunities at one of the many ports in Djibouti.

Large-scale, planned demonstrations are rare. Both the Djiboutian National Police and the Gendarmerie have effective riot-control squads and take proactive steps to stage personnel in areas of potential unrest. Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Demonstrations have been mostly peaceful; however, participants have blocked the roads with rocks and burning tires and engaged in indiscriminate rock throwing. Avoid political gatherings and large crowds. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Religious/Ethnic Violence

Approximately 60% of Djiboutians are ethnic Somali. The remainder are mostly of Afar descent, with the exception of a small minority of Yemeni origin. Relations between Somali and Afar ethnic groups remain a sensitive issue. Since the 2001 signing of a final peace accord, many former rebels have been integrated into the National Police and Defense Forces; however, ethnic-based rebel groups remain and have carried out attacks against government entities, mostly in remote locations.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Djibouti is in Seismic Zone 4 (Very High). Ensure security protocols include earthquake drills and other similar preparation.

Although hot conditions prevail year-round, brief periods of moderate to heavy rains can cause severe flooding of roads and homes due to poor infrastructure. Flooding is worse during high tide. In 2019, Djibouti experienced its worst-ever flooding, which led to several fatalities across the country. Major rain storms can lead to flash flooding, and can cause serious problems across the country.

Economic Concerns

The Djiboutian Franc (DJF) is the official currency. Djibouti’s is a cash economy; credit cards are accepted at major hotels and supermarkets only. Most vendors and banks will only take bills printed after 2006 due to counterfeiting. Exchange currency only at reputable banks. ATMs are limited and may not recognize U.S.-issued credit cards, including MasterCard, although Visa generally works. Review OSAC’s reports, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud and Taking Credit.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Power outages and spikes are common, and especially affect lower-income populations.

Personal Identity Concerns

Djibouti is a tolerant Islamic country, but visitors should dress conservatively and observe local customs to the extent possible.

While there are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI+ events, societal norms do not allow for the public discussion of homosexuality, and there are no known LGBTI+ organizations. Authorities may prosecute public display of same-sex sexual conduct under laws prohibiting attacks on “good morals.” No antidiscrimination law exists to protect LGBTI+ individuals. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI+ travelers. Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

The law prohibits female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), but the practice remains prevalent with rates estimated at 78% nationally. Dual Somali-U.S. or Djiboutian-U.S. citizens should be aware that moving children to Djibouti or Somalia (including Somaliland) from the United States for the purpose of performing Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) can be prosecuted in both countries. FGM/C is illegal under both Djiboutian and U.S. law. Reliable rape statistics are not available, and authorities do noe enforce laws for sentencing perpetrators effectively. Domestic violence is common but underreported. Rather than the courts, families and the informal clan-based justice system generally handle cases of domestic abuse or violence. Police rarely intervene in domestic violence incidents. The National Union of Djiboutian Women operates a walk-in counseling center (Cellule d’Écoute) in Djibouti city that provides services and referrals for women and men. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for female travelers.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith- based travelers.

Persons with disabilities face limited access to transportation, communication, accommodations, and public buildings. There are few sidewalks and no curb-cuts, and most buildings lack functioning elevators.Dual U.S.-Djiboutian citizens with disabilities may qualify for education and health services through the Ministry of National Solidarity and the Ministry for the Promotion of Women and Family Planning. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Drug-related Crimes

A significant percentage of Djiboutian males are under the influence of khat daily. Khat is a narcotic plant that one typically chews for effect. The distribution of khat occurs in the morning hours, with sales kiosks set up across the city. The drug's effects may escalate what would otherwise be a casual interaction into a confrontation. Although khat is legal in Djibouti, it is illegal in many countries, including the United States. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs result in long prison sentences and heavy fines.

Kidnapping Threat

The threat of kidnapping exists offshore, related to piracy developments in the Gulf of Aden. Review OSAC’s report, Kidnapping: The Basics.

Other Issues

It is illegal to take pictures of government buildings, military installations or personnel, and other infrastructure such as airports and seaports, bridges, and public buildings, as well as of religious sites, such as mosques. Authorities could levy fines, confiscate your photographic equipment, and detain and/or expel you from the country. Do not take photos of Djiboutians without their permission. Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

Strict regulations exist on the temporary import and export of firearms. Hunting without a permit is illegal. Read the State Department’s webpage on customs and import restrictions for information on what you cannot take into or out of other countries. Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

Police Response

The emergency line in Djibouti is 119. Police response is slow to non-existent. Legal response or recourse for victims of crime is extremely limited. A significant percentage of Djiboutian males, to include security and law enforcement officers, are under the influence of khat daily.

Download the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

Medical Emergencies

Medical facilities in the capital do not generally offer the standard of care available in more developed countries, although a few doctors cater to the expatriate community. Facilities are nonexistent in many outlying areas. Trauma care is only capable of stabilizing a patient prior to medical evacuation (medevac). Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.

Medicines are expensive and often in short supply. Carry medication in its original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

The emergency response system is below Western standards; response time for accidents outside the capital city is usually several hours. Ambulances are under-equipped and suffer from lack of maintenance. The training of ambulance staff is poor by western standards.

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Departments webpage on insurance overseas.

Malaria is endemic; all travelers should use chemoprophylaxis. Use CDC-recommended mosquito repellents including DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR-3535. Sleep under insecticide- impregnated mosquito nets.

Given Djibouti’s proximity to the Arabian peninsula, the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is also a risk.

The following diseases are prevalent: cholera; chikungunya; dengue fever; hepatitis A; and typhoid. The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Djibouti.

Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Traveling with Medication, I’m Drinking What in My Water?, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad.

OSAC Country Council Information

Djibouti does not have a Country Council. Contact OSAC’s Africa team for more information.

Djibouti 2020 OSAC Crime & Safety Report

U.S. Embassy Contact Information

The Embassy is in the Haramous neighborhood of Djibouti, at Lot 350B. Telephone: +253-21-45-30-00 Emergency Duty Officer: +253-77-87-72-29 Website: http://dj.usembassy.gov/

Helpful Information

Before you travel, consider the following resources:

• OSAC Risk Matrix • OSAC Travelers Toolkit • State Department Traveler’s Checklist • Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)