About Somalia

Discover the Land of Poets

An Overview

Somalia

Somalia, situated in the Horn of Africa, is a nation of immense history, culture, and potential. With the longest coastline on mainland Africa, it has been a center of global trade for millennia. The Federal Republic of Somalia is composed of several Federal Member States, each with its own unique geography and cultural heritage. From the misty mountains of the north to the fertile river valleys of the south, Somalia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. The nation is rebuilding and re-emerging as a destination for business and tourism, celebrating its rich traditions of poetry, hospitality, and resilience.

BenadirJubalandSomalilandPuntland

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Capital Region

Banaadir

Benadir is the engine of Somalia, home to the capital city, Mogadishu. It is the administrative, financial, and commercial hub of the nation. With its white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean, historical landmarks like the Arba-Rucun Mosque, and a vibrant cultural scene, Benadir represents the resilience and revival of the Somali people.

Capital: Mogadishu

Northern Region

Somaliland

Somaliland, located in the northwest, is known for its stability and rich history. It is home to the Laas Geel cave paintings, dating back thousands of years. The region features a diverse landscape ranging from the Golis Mountains to the Red Sea coast at Berbera.

Capital: Hargeisa

Northeastern State

Puntland

Puntland occupies the northeastern tip of Somalia. It is famous for its frankincense production, the Cape Guardafui lighthouse, and the majestic Cal Madow mountain ranges. The region offers pristine coastlines and is a gateway to the Gulf of Aden.

Capital: Garowe

Southern State

Jubbaland

Jubaland, situated in the far south, is the agricultural breadbasket of Somalia. The Juba River flows through this lush region, which meets the Indian Ocean at the port city of Kismayo. It is known for its National Park and diverse wildlife.

Capital: Kismayo

State of South West

South West

The South West state is rich in history and agriculture. Baidoa, known as the "City of Springs," is its capital. The region is characterized by its fertile farmlands and distinctive reddish soil, contributing significantly to the nations crop production.

Capital: Baidoa

State of Hirshabelle

Hirshabelle

Hirshabelle is named after the Shabelle River and the Hiiraan region. It features a mix of riverine ecosystems and pastoral lands. The region is vital for livestock and farming, with Jowhar serving as a key agricultural center.

Capital: Jowhar

Central State

Galmudug

Galmudug is centrally located, bridging the north and south. It is known for its vast grazing lands and coastal towns like Hobyo, which has a long history of maritime trade. The region is a cultural heartland with deep traditional roots.

Capital: Dhusamareb

Basic Facts About Somalia

Population

≈ 18.1 million people (2023 est.)

Area

637,657 km²

Location

Located in the Horn of Africa, bordering Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, the Gulf of Aden, and the Indian Ocean.

Time

East Africa Time (EAT) is 3 hours ahead of GMT (UTC+3).

Currency

The Somali Shilling (SOS) is the official currency. The US dollar is also widely accepted.

Climate

Principally desert, characterized by hot conditions year-round, with periodic monsoon winds.

Official Languages

Somali and Arabic are the official languages. English and Italian are also spoken.

Coastline

Has the longest coastline on mainland Africa, stretching approximately 3,333 kilometers.

Religion

Islam is the state religion, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims.