Zeima

Issued in 1964 as part of the Local Dhows series of the French Somali Coast (Côte Française des Somalis), this stamp commemorates the Zeima, a traditional sailing vessel used along the coasts of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Boats of this type were important for fishing, coastal transportation, and regional trade, helping to connect communities and facilitate the movement of goods across maritime routes that had been used for centuries.

By featuring the Zeima, the issue highlighted the rich seafaring traditions of the Horn of Africa and the importance of maritime activities in the region's economic and cultural development. The stamp celebrated the heritage of traditional navigation and boatbuilding, recognizing the role of local dhows in sustaining commerce, communication, and cultural exchange between coastal societies.