• The Startup Act aims to ease company creation and support youth employment
• The law includes a national fund of funds, a startup label, and fiscal incentives
• It is part of Vision Djibouti 2035 to build a stronger digital economy

Minister Delegate for the Digital Economy and Innovation Mariam Hamadou Ali (photo, right) presented the “Startup Act Djibouti” bill to the National Assembly on Sunday, November 9. The bill aims to make it easier to create technology companies and encourage youth employment. After extensive discussions, it received a favorable opinion and proposed amendments for review in a plenary session.

The “Startup Act Djibouti” includes several measures to support entrepreneurs and attract investors. It introduces the “Djibouti Startup” label to identify and promote young innovative companies, offering fiscal and financial incentives tailored to their needs.

The law also proposes a national fund of funds to strengthen venture capital and make financing more accessible to start-ups, along with a simplified customs window for technology companies. It also includes a “Startup Visa” to attract international talent and a unified digital platform, “Djibouti Startup,” which will serve as a support and monitoring portal for all start-ups in the country.

The bill aligns with Vision Djibouti 2035, which places innovation and digital transformation at the center of national strategy. It comes at a time when start-ups are growing rapidly but still face challenges in support and financing. It reflects the government’s plan to make Djibouti a regional entrepreneurship hub and unlock the creative potential of its youth.

Once adopted, the law will be followed by implementing decrees detailing practical measures, including label allocation, fund management, and visa eligibility requirements. For Minister Mariam Hamadou Ali, this law goes beyond a regulatory framework and represents a strong signal to young entrepreneurs and investors.