A LA JONCTION DES TERRITOIRES

"Dikhil appeared to us as a privileged place on the threshold of which the dark spells of the desert ceased to operate. The pale green of the palm trees took on a marvelous intensity. "Joseph Kessel, Not all were angels.

We are here at the junction of the Issa and Afar territories. Dikhil is one of the most important places in the country. This slightly perched town was developed as an administrative centre in 1928, where there were only a few nomadic huts. The streets and alleys are now a pleasant little stroll, between laurel trees and white walls, busy goats and sleeping cats. The visitor is often accompanied by smiling and talkative children. There is no shortage of restaurants with the smell of grilled meat. The sound of hammers and saws comes from the many small workshops open to the street. Somali knives (bilaawe) and various small handicrafts are made. Dikhil benefits from the passage of countless Ethiopian trucks in transit. The commercial activity with Ethiopia is important and has attracted the nomads of the surroundings. Most of them settled here a long time ago.

Coming from the Grand Bara, we cross a beautiful arid landscape. We pass by Mouloud, then we see Dikhil, which we even overlook for a few moments. Coming from the north, you pass by a police station for a control, then under a gate that is monumental. You enter the region of Unity.