Djibouti(Moagadishu24)–President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the 75th anniversary commemoration of the Djibouti Francon Monday at the Kempinski Palace Hotel, highlighting the currency’s vital role in safeguarding economic sovereignty and fostering national development.

The ceremony was a colorful celebration of the Djibouti Franc’s resilience and its symbolic importance as a cornerstone of national unity and cohesion. The event brought together key government officials, financial leaders, and stakeholders to honor the Franc’s enduring stability amid global economic challenges.

In his address, President Guelleh underscored the profound significance of the Djibouti Franc in the country’s history, describing it as a “founding act that symbolizes the sovereignty of our territory.” He emphasized the currency’s journey from colonization to independence, supporting Djibouti’s transformation into a regional economic hub:

“This event is much more than just an economic celebration. Through this currency, it is the will of the Djiboutian people that has expressed itself for their economic independence. Over the decades, this currency has accompanied our country’s profound transformations and its emergence as a key player in the international economy.”

The president praised institutions like the Central Bank of Djibouti for safeguarding the currency and ensuring its success, while also calling on the nation to preserve the Franc as a symbol of stability, equality, and prosperity.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this currency continues to be a factor of development, equality, and prosperity for all citizens,” President Guelleh concluded.

Minister of Economy and Finance, Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, echoed the President’s sentiments, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Djibouti’s achievements and reaffirm its vision for the future:

“In these times marked by ‘polycrisis’ — interconnected economic, health, climate, and geopolitical challenges — the Djibouti Franc remains a foundation of stability for our nation.”

The Governor of the Central Bank of Djibouti, Ahmed Osman Ali, paid tribute to key figures who played critical roles in the history of the Djibouti Franc. He honored the late President Hassan Gouled Aptidon, for prioritizing currency preservation during independence negotiations, and leaders like Said Ali Coubèche and Djama Mahamoud Haid for their contributions to the Franc’s creation and financial sector reforms.

The celebration served as a moment of reflection on the Franc’s resilience in the face of global economic fluctuations and as a reaffirmation of Djibouti’s commitment to financial sovereignty and sustainable development.