Independence Day in Djibouti

History and meaning

On June 27, 1977, Djibouti’s National Assembly met in an extraordinary session and approved the proclamation of national independence. The proclamation named the new state the Republic of Djibouti and described it as united, indivisible, independent and sovereign.[1]

The proclamation refers to the popular will expressed on May 8, 1977. Djibouti’s Independence Day therefore marks the declaration of the country as an independent republic, rather than the referendum date.[1]

Legal status and dates

Djibouti’s Labour Code says that nonworking, paid public holidays are set by law or regulation. The code applies to employer-worker relationships across the country, except in free zones, and excludes permanent public-administration employees and certain uniformed services from its scope.[2]

The official gazette’s 1981 correction to the holiday schedule says Independence Day is two consecutive days, June 27 and June 28, every year.[3]

How it is observed

Official and civic events have included military parades and public speeches. In its account of an Independence Day celebration, Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported a military parade attended by the president and other national officials.[4]

A report from the City of Djibouti describes a folkloric street procession with traditional singing and dancing, followed by a speech at city hall.[5]

Practical arrangements

The gazette classifies the Independence Day holiday as nonworking and paid. Check directly with the office, business or transport operator you plan to use about opening hours.[2][3]