Djibouti city's coastline under pressure: A growing challenge

Tracking Coastal Change with Technology
 Thanks to satellite data and processing tools from Digital Earth Africa (DE Africa) Sandbox, researchers from the Regional Centre for mapping of Resources for development, (an implementing partner of DE Africa Program) have been able to track the transformation of Djibouti’s shoreline over the past two decades. Datasets derived from Landsat and Sentinel satellites, have provided valuable insights into how erosion and rapid urbanization are affecting the natural environment.

One of the most pressing issues revealed by this analysis is the existence of erosion hotspots. Several parts of the coastline are experiencing rapid shoreline retreat, particularly in areas where major urban and industrial developments have taken place. On the other hand, some sections of the coast are expanding due to extensive land reclamation projects, which have been undertaken to create new housing and port infrastructure. However, these artificial expansions do not necessarily counteract the ongoing erosion in other areas. Meanwhile, climate change has introduced additional concerns - rising sea levels and increasingly frequent extreme weather events are accelerating the rate of erosion, making low-lying coastal areas more vulnerable than ever before.

How human activity is reshaping the coast 
The rapid growth of Djibouti City has fueled major infrastructure projects, including the expansion of housing infrastructure. While these projects have provided economic opportunities, they have also significantly altered the natural balance of coastal ecosystems. The expansion of the Port of Djibouti, for example, has changed sediment movement and wave patterns, which in turn has contributed to shifts in erosion and deposition along the shoreline. 

Additionally, land reclamation projects have played a crucial role in reshaping the coastline. By artificially extending the land through landfill and construction, the natural process of sediment deposition has been disrupted, leading to changes in erosion patterns. At the same time, urban sprawl has increased pressure on the coastal environment. As more buildings and infrastructure are developed along the shore, natural buffers such as mangroves and dunes are being reduced, leaving the coastline more exposed to erosion and extreme weather events.

The Climate Change Factor 
While human activity has played a significant role in reshaping Djibouti’s coastline, climate change has further compounded these challenges. Rising sea levels pose an increasing threat, as they accelerate erosion and heighten the risk of coastal flooding. The frequency and intensity of storm surges and extreme weather events have also increased, making coastal areas even more vulnerable. Moreover, the degradation of natural coastal barriers such as mangrove forests and coral reefs has further diminished the coastline’s ability to withstand these environmental pressures. Without proper intervention, the continued impact of climate change could lead to severe erosion and even permanent land loss in some areas. 

The Path Forward: Sustainable Solutions 
Addressing the challenges facing Djibouti’s coastline requires immediate and proactive measures. One of the most effective strategies is the implementation of nature-based solutions. Restoring mangroves and coral reefs can provide natural buffers against wave action and storm surges, helping to protect vulnerable coastal areas. In addition, sustainable urban planning must be prioritized to ensure that construction in high-risk zones is limited and that climate adaptation measures are integrated into future development plans. Furthermore, ongoing monitoring is crucial to understanding and mitigating the effects of coastal change. By utilizing satellite data and real-time sensors, authorities can track shoreline movements and make informed decisions regarding coastal management. These efforts will be essential in ensuring that Djibouti’s coastline remains resilient in the face of both human-induced and natural challenges. 

Conclusion 
The choices made today will determine whether the city’s coastline continues to face instability or becomes a model for sustainable coastal management. By leveraging technology, embracing sustainable urban planning, and investing in nature-based solutions, Djibouti can strike a balance between economic growth and environmental resilience. Protecting the coastline is not just an environmental necessity—it is an investment in the city’s future prosperity. As Djibouti’s urban and economic footprint grows, so too must its commitment to safeguarding its most valuable natural resource—the coast. 

Article authored by Mohamed Omar
GIS Technical Assistant-RCMRD