The Perfumed Islands of the Indian Ocean
Comoros, officially the Union of the Comoros, is an archipelago nation off the eastern coast of Africa, between Mozambique and Madagascar. Known as the “Perfumed Islands” for its fragrant ylang-ylang flowers, Comoros is a land of tropical beauty, Islamic heritage, and a vibrant blend of African and Arab cultures.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Comoros has a deep history of migration, trade, and cultural fusion shaped by African, Arab, and Malagasy influences.
Key Historical Timeline:
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Pre-10th Century: Settled by Bantu-speaking people from East Africa and Austronesians from Madagascar.
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10th–15th Century: Arrival of Arab traders; Islam becomes dominant.
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16th Century: Independent sultanates ruled each island.
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1841–1912: French colonization begins with Mayotte, later extending to other islands.
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1975 (July 6): Independence declared — the Union of the Comoros formed (Mayotte voted to remain under France).
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1997–2002: Political instability and secession attempts; new constitution establishes Union Government.
Today, Comoros is one of Africa’s smallest countries, proud of its unity and Islamic cultural heritage.
🧭 Basic National Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Union of the Comoros |
| Capital City | Moroni |
| President | Azali Assoumani (as of 2025) |
| Government Type | Federal Presidential Republic |
| Area | ~2,235 sq. km |
| Population | ~900,000 (2025 estimate) |
| Currency | Comorian Franc (KMF) |
| Time Zone | East Africa Time (UTC+3) |
| Dial Code | +269 |
| Top-Level Domain | .km |
| National Motto | “Unité, Solidarité, Développement” (Unity, Solidarity, Development) |
⚖️ Government and Leadership
| Position | Current Officeholder (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| President | Azali Assoumani |
| Government Type | Federal Presidential Republic |
| Legislature | Assembly of the Union |
| Judiciary | Supreme Court of the Union |
| Administrative Capital | Moroni |
Comoros’ governance rotates the presidency among the three main islands to ensure political balance.
🗺️ Administrative Structure
| Division | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Islands | 3 major islands (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan) |
| Overseas Territory | Mayotte (administered by France) |
| Major Cities | Moroni, Mutsamudu, Fomboni |
Islands of Comoros:
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Grande Comore (Ngazidja) – Largest, volcanic, home to capital Moroni
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Anjouan (Nzwani) – Fertile and densely populated
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Mohéli (Mwali) – Smallest, known for its natural beauty
🌐 Geography & Environment
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Location: Indian Ocean, between northern Mozambique and northwestern Madagascar
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Volcanic Origin: Mount Karthala (2,361 m) – one of the world’s most active volcanoes
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Climate: Tropical marine; warm and humid year-round
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Natural Resources: Fertile soil, marine life, forests
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Environmental Focus: Coral reef preservation, reforestation, disaster risk management
The Karthala Volcano dominates the island of Grande Comore, shaping its fertile landscape.
Local Government Structure
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Each island has an elected Governor and Island Assembly.
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The Union Government oversees foreign affairs, defense, and currency.
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Recent reforms have centralized powers under the President, reducing island autonomy.
Leadership & Governance
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Comoros follows a rotational presidency system among the three islands (modified in recent years).
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Priorities include:
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Political stability and constitutional reform
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Economic diversification
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Strengthening Islamic education and civic services
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Governance is influenced by a mix of Islamic tradition, French legal heritage, and local customs.
Law Enforcement & Safety
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Security is provided by:
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Comorian National Police
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National Development Army
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Challenges:
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Political unrest during elections
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Maritime piracy threats (declining)
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Emergency services exist but are limited, especially in rural areas
🕌 Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Islam (Sunni, ~98%) |
| Official Languages | Comorian (Shikomori), Arabic, French |
| Ethnic Groups | Comorian (mixed African, Arab, and Malagasy descent) |
| Cultural Identity | Deeply Islamic, family-oriented, and community-based society |
Cultural Highlights:
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Music & Dance: Twirah and Chigoma performances
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Cuisine: Coconut rice, grilled fish, cassava, and banana dishes
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Traditional Dress: Shiromani (women), Kanzu (men)
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Celebrations: Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, National Day (July 6)
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Symbolism: Ylang-ylang oil — one of Comoros’ iconic exports
Comoros is often called “The Islands of Perfume” for its global trade in ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cloves.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Vanilla, ylang-ylang, cloves, coconut, banana |
| Fishing | Major source of income and export |
| Tourism | Emerging eco-tourism and marine tourism sector |
| Remittances | Vital to GDP from diaspora communities |
| Trade Partners | France, UAE, Madagascar, India |
| Economic Vision | “Vision Comoros 2030” – diversification and blue economy growth |
Comoros is the world’s largest producer of ylang-ylang essential oil used in perfumes and cosmetics.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Sector | Details |
|---|---|
| Education System | Compulsory and free primary education |
| Top Institutions | University of the Comoros |
| Literacy Rate | ~78% (2025 est.) |
| Healthcare System | Public hospitals supported by WHO and NGOs |
| Life Expectancy | ~65 years |
| Focus Areas | Youth education, maternal health, vocational training |
The University of the Comoros is central to the nation’s education and research development.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Airport | Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (Moroni) |
| Ports | Moroni, Mutsamudu, Fomboni |
| Inter-Island Transport | Ferries and domestic flights |
| Energy Projects | Renewable energy and solar initiatives expanding |
| Urban Development | Focus on coastal resilience and tourism infrastructure |
Comoros’ coastal cities are undergoing modernization to boost tourism and connectivity.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Destinations:
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Moroni: Historic mosques, Old Medina, colorful markets
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Mount Karthala: Volcanic trekking adventures
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Mohéli Marine Park: Coral reefs and sea turtles
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Anjouan Island: Waterfalls, spice gardens, and Arabic architecture
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Chomoni Beach: White sands and turquoise waters
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Lac Salé: Crater lake and scenic viewpoints
Mohéli Marine Park is Comoros’ first national park — a haven for dolphins, whales, and coral reefs.
🌍 Global Role & Relations
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| UN Membership | Since 1975 |
| Regional Membership | African Union, Arab League, OIC, IOC, COMESA |
| Foreign Policy Focus | Climate resilience, trade, education cooperation |
| Major Partners | France, UAE, China, India, Saudi Arabia |
| Strategic Role | Maritime link between Africa, Madagascar, and the Middle East |
Comoros plays an important role in Indian Ocean maritime diplomacy and climate advocacy.
📝 Summary
Comoros is a small but enchanting island nation where volcanoes, coral reefs, and culture converge. Its Islamic heritage, aromatic exports, and stunning marine life make it one of Africa’s most beautiful yet underrated destinations.
📢 News & Articles
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“Comoros: The Perfumed Islands of the Indian Ocean”
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“Mount Karthala – Africa’s Living Volcano”
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“Sustainable Tourism and Blue Economy in Comoros”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, created to highlight the stories, resilience, and natural wonders of every African nation.
📬 Contact Us
For verified updates or research on Comoros’ culture, economy, or tourism, contact our editorial team.