Chewing on Qat

Tons of the legal narcotic leaf catha edulis, also known as qat, are imported daily from Ethiopia. Qat is typically chewed by men, though some women do as well, though this is never seen in public. Although khat is legal in Djibouti, it is not permitted in government offices or public sector jobs. Nonetheless, it is "tolerated" on construction sites, where men like Aburach, a Yemeni welder, chew on it to relax and be more productive. "Once I stop nibbling, I feel lighter, so much so that I actually work a bit more," the Yemeni told France24. When I stop nibbling, I feel a lot better. "I have a strong desire to work more."

You can buy it in many places downtown or on street corners in Djibouti City. Qat is thought to have aphrodisiac properties, as well as the ability to improve concentration and reduce appetite. Most people do it in the late afternoons and on weekends, but some start as early as noon. Men organize large indoor gatherings where they can chew qat and talk for hours. These one-of-a-kind qat parties are accompanied by shaah (tea) and music. If Ethiopia fails to deliver on time, even by one or two days, prices skyrocket and a general state of dissatisfaction reigns over Djibouti's urban landscape.