Women money changers help Djibouti economy

These women play a vital role in Djibouti’s economy. In this country of just under a million people, where two thirds of the economy is informal, independent money changers keep the cash flowing.

Sitting on plastic chairs, they hold bags containing all sorts of different currencies – Djiboutian francs, Ethiopian birr, euros, riyals and dollars.

Noura Hassan used her savings to set up as a money changer, known locally as ‘sarifley’, following the death of her husband a decade ago. She calculates her charges from daily banking rates.

Noura: "We are aware of the exchange rates because our bank gives us this sheet. It's free, it's through this sheet that we know the exchange rates."

Situated in the Horn of Africa, only 43 per cent of women in this small country receive any formal education. Despite this lack of skills, money changing offers uneducated women prospects. Medina believes her independence is extremely important.

Medina: "It’s a decent job, it's better than being jobless. You work to earn a living for your children. When you sit here you have a cash flow, you don't need to beg from anyone working on your own."

The working class district of PK12 sees money changers doing brisk business. An area popular with traders, rickshaw drivers and visitors from Djibouti’s neighbour Ethiopia, it isn’t served by any banks. The fastest solution for them to exchange currencies is the conveniently placed money changers.

Aware of the dangers of carrying relatively large sums in cash, the women team up for protection as well as to offer a helping hand.

Sticking together provides the sarifleys with reassurance, as Zahra explains.

Zahra: "Whoever steals money does not come to us. They're scared. We're a lot, aren't we? He's not coming. If I'm alone he'll come." View Less