Somalia developed from a string of Arab sultanates along the northeast coast of Africa, which in turn had grown up from trading posts established from the 17th century onwards. As Arab influence waned, the British, French and Italians established protectorates on the Somali coast during the late-19th century. These were the subjects of various treaties, forged amid frequent border clashes between the colonial powers and the neighbouring Ethiopians, and between the European powers themselves.

Modern Somalia was created on 1 July 1960 from British and Italian Somalilands. Inherited tribal rivalries and territorial disputes have dominated the country’s subsequent history.

Years of fighting between rival warlords and an inability to deal with famine and disease have led to the deaths of up to 1 million people.

The country has been without an effective central government since President Siad Barre was overthrown in 1991. In the main part of the country, a Transitional National Government was elected in July 2000 by representatives of the country’s major clans, political and religious movements. The government is led by Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed and Ali Mohamed Ghedi , who hold the titles of president and prime minister respectively. It has UN recognition but, if the 2004 accord holds, will be replaced under a new constitution.

637,657 sq km (246,201 sq miles).

9.1 million (official estimate 2007).

14.2 per sq km.

Mogadishu. Population: 1.2 million (UN estimate 2003).

Somalia gained independence from the UK and Italy in 1960. At the Arta Peace Conference in 2000, an interim parliament was established. The northern part of the country declared itself independent as the Republic of Somaliland with Dahir Riyale Kahin as acting president since 2002, although it has achieved little international recognition.

Somali and Arabic are the official languages. Swahili is spoken, particularly in the south. English and Italian are also widely spoken.

The state religion is Islam and the majority of Somalis are Sunni Muslims. There is a small Christian community, mostly Roman Catholic.

GMT + 3.

Traditional dance, music, song and craftsmanship flourish despite gradual modern development. Informal wear is acceptable and there is no objection to bikinis on the beach. Visitors should respect local customs.

220 volts AC, 50Hz.

Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Ghedi since 2004.

Executive President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed since 2004.