The Afars and Issas, now known as Djibouti, is a small country located in the Horn of Africa. It has a rich and varied history, dating back to the early days of French colonial rule. The country has a diverse population, consisting of the Afar and Issa ethnic groups, as well as a number of other smaller groups. The postal history of the Afars and Issas is also interesting, with a number of different stamps and postal systems being used over the years. In 1977, the country gained independence from France and became known as Djibouti. Today, Djibouti is a thriving nation, with a growing economy and a bright future.

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  1897 – 1917:

  France maintained close relations with Ethiopia and the railroad from Djibouti to Addis Ababa was constructed.

  From 1902 stamps inscribed Cote Francaise des Somalis were issued for the French Somali Coast.

• 1928:

  The Dikhil post was created in the Western parts of the colony.

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  1967:

  On August 21, the first stamps of Afars and Issas were issued. On September 4, the first stamps of Anguilla were issued.

• 1977:

  On June 27, the French Territory of the Afars and the Issas became independent, taking the name Djibouti, with Hassan Gouled Aptidon as president.

• 1978:

  Djibouti’s first stamps were issued on July 1.