On October 6, 2026, President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh of Djibouti inaugurated the 7th edition of the Economic Missions of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) in the presence of Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of the Francophonie. The event, held at the Kempinski Palace Hotel, brought together diplomats, government members, and economic operators. President Guelleh emphasized Djibouti's role as a bridge between continents and a reliable partner for those seeking to invest.
President Guelleh highlighted Djibouti's strategic advantages, including its location at the entrance of the Bab el-Mandeb, a critical waterway for global trade. The country boasts modern ports, free zones, a railway link with Ethiopia, and underwater cables, making it an attractive gateway to a vast market of millions of consumers. These assets position Djibouti as a key player in regional trade and economic development.
The President outlined five priority sectors for collaboration with the OIF: logistics and free zones, digital technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and sustainable tourism. He cited specific projects, such as the DIFTZ and Damerjog industrial projects, the Goubet wind farm, Al-Shifa hospital, and the development of Lake Assal and Moucha Island. These initiatives aim to drive economic growth and create opportunities for investment.
To enhance the business environment, President Guelleh assured that reforms have been implemented to simplify procedures and better support investors. He emphasized that this momentum will continue, with a focus on monitoring agreements signed during the event. The President stressed that success will be measured by the number of projects realized in Djibouti, rather than just the number of contacts made.
Amidst regional tensions and global economic uncertainty, President Guelleh dismissed predictions of irreversible economic decline for countries bordering the Bab el-Mandeb. He characterized the current challenges as temporary and emphasized the enduring importance of the waterway for global trade. The President encouraged the private sector and youth to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the forum.
The OIF Economic Missions, launched in 2022, provide a platform for businesses to network and explore opportunities for trade, economic integration, and skills transfer. This edition brings together over 166 foreign companies, 300 delegations from around the world, and approximately 150 Djiboutian firms. The event offers a unique chance for stakeholders to engage and drive growth in key sectors.
The Economic Mission also underscores Djibouti's commitment to youth employment, renewable energy, and digitalization. With a focus on tangible outcomes, the event aims to translate dialogue into concrete projects and investments. As the forum continues, participants will explore ways to harness Djibouti's potential and drive sustainable economic growth in the region.
Key points
- President Guelleh emphasizes Djibouti's strategic location and potential as a regional economic hub.
- The OIF Economic Missions aim to promote trade, economic integration, and skills transfer among member countries.
- Djibouti is prioritizing five sectors for collaboration with the OIF: logistics, digital technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and sustainable tourism.
