Somalia is known for the Horn of Africa and longest coastline in mainland Africa. It has a population of 20.3 million, making it the 66th largest country in the world. Its capital is Mogadishu. Somalia has a developing economy with livestock exports. Around 85% of its people are ethnic Somalis, who have inhabited the region historically. Ethnic minorities make up the rest of the population and are concentrated primarily in the southern areas of Somalia. Non-Somali ethnic groups include Benadiri, Bravanese, Bantus, Ethiopians, Indians, Persians and Italians. The Bantus are the largest ethnic minority in Somalia and are descended from slaves brought by Arab traders. After the country gained independence, most Europeans left the region.

The official languages used in Somalia include Somali and Arabic. Italian and English are also used in the region.