Country Profile · No. 11

Comoros

Capital / Admin Capital

MoroniPopulation: ~900kIndependence: 1975 (July 6)

First President

Ahmed Abdallah (1975–1976)Current President: Azali Assoumani (serving since 2016, also served 1999–2006)

Geography & Borders

Volcanic archipelago island nation located in the Mozambique Channel of the Indian Ocean between Mozambique and Madagascar.

Demographics & Language

Islam (State religion, practiced by ~98%+). Official: Comorian language, Arabic language, French language. Major groups: Comorian people (mixed Bantu, Arab, Malagasy, and Austronesian ancestry).

Economy & GDP

Agriculture (vanilla, cloves, ylang-ylang essential oils), fishing, remittances from overseas diaspora.

Global Diaspora

1. France (~250k–300k, largely in Marseille), 2. Madagascar (~20k), 3. Réunion (~15k), 4. United States (~2k–4k). U.S. Hubs (States / Cities): California (Los Angeles), New York, Florida (Miami).

Major Conflicts

Comoran coup d'états history (experienced over 20 military coups and attempted takeovers post-independence, famously orchestrated partly by mercenary Bob Denard), Anjouan secessionist crisis (1997– 2008).

3 Must-See Sites

1. Mount Karthala (An active shield volcano and the highest point in Comoros, featuring one of the world's largest active craters), 2. Itsandra Beach (Scenic coastal spot near Moroni popular for scuba diving, sea turtles, and ancient royal ruins), 3. Moheli Marine Park (Protected coastal sanctuary famous for nesting green sea turtles, humpback whales, and living coral reefs).

Quick Facts

Globally recognized as the world's leading producer of ylang-ylang essential oil (used in high-end perfumes like Chanel No. 5); historically known as the "Perfume Isles."