Somalia has the longest coastline on Africa's mainland. Somalia has an estimated population of more than 18 million, of which 2.7 million live in the capital and largest city, Mogadishu. As one of Africa's most ethnically homogenous countries, around 85% of its residents are ethnic Somalis.

Understanding the Context

Somalia is the easternmost country of Africa, on the Horn of Africa. It extends from just south of the Equator northward to the Gulf of Aden and occupies an important geopolitical position between sub-Saharan Africa and the countries of Arabia and southwestern Asia. The capital is Mogadishu. Discover Somalia.

Key Insights

Explore Somalia facts, culture, history & comprehensive country profile with maps, statistics & research resources for students & travelers. Somalia's alignment with communist states, coupled with its proclaimed adherence to scientific socialism, led to frequent accusations that the country had become a Soviet satellite. Somalia has a population of 19 million people within its borders, 10 million in neighboring countries, and nearly 2 million in the global diaspora. About 10% of the Somali diaspora live within North America. Stay on top of Somalia latest developments on the ground with Al Jazeera’s fact-based news, exclusive video footage, photos and updated maps.

Final Thoughts

Stay informed with the latest news, video, live updates and expert analysis about Somalia from across the BBC. Somalia Today is the independent source for essential news and analysis on Somalia, telling Somalia's authentic story to the world.