What is the easternmost country on the land mass of Africa?

The distinct, spear-like shape of the Horn of Africa gives a major clue to the continent's easternmost point. This geographical distinction belongs to Somalia, thanks to a specific feature called Ras Hafun. This low-lying peninsula, connected to the mainland by a narrow spit of sand, juts out into the Indian Ocean and marks the absolute easternmost tip of the entire African land mass. While island nations like Mauritius lie further east, Ras Hafun secures Somalia's claim on the continent itself.

This prime location has defined the nation's history and culture. With the longest coastline in mainland Africa, bordering both the Gulf of Aden to the north and the Indian Ocean to the east, Somalia has been a strategic crossroads for millennia. Its position made it a vital center for maritime trade, connecting Africa with the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, and India. This ancient network (Review) facilitated the exchange of goods like frankincense, myrrh, and spices, embedding the nation into a global commercial web long before modern times.