Country Profile: Comoros
The Union of the Comoros, an archipelago located between northern Madagascar and Mozambique, is characterized by its tropical marine climate and volcanic terrain. With a population of approximately 911,707, the islands are home to a rich cultural heritage, primarily influenced by Arabic, African, and French traditions. Economically, Comoros has a small trade-based economy that has faced challenges such as political instability, adverse weather conditions, and the impacts of COVID-19. Governed as a federal presidential republic, Comoros continues to navigate the complexities of its governance structure as it strives for political stability and economic development.
Geography
Comoros consists of four major islands: Anjouan, Mayotte, Moheli, and Grande Comore, with the capital city located in Moroni on Grande Comore. The islands feature varying terrains of steep mountains and low hills, primarily comprised of volcanic geography. The climate is tropical marine, with a rainy season occurring between November and May.
- Total Area: 2,235 sq km
- Coastline: 340 km
- Highest Point: 2,360 m (Karthala on Grande Comore)
- Agricultural Land Usage: 71.5% of total land area (2023)
- Natural Hazards: Cyclones and volcanic activity are potential risks.
People and Society
The Comoran population is approximately 911,707 as of 2025, with a demographic skew towards youth, as nearly one-third are under 15 years of age. The society is predominantly Muslim (98.1%), with Arabic, French, and Shikomoro as official languages. The islands display a diverse ethnic makeup including Antalote, Cafre, Makoa, Oimatsaha, and Sakalava groups.
- Median Age: 23.1 years
- Population Growth Rate: 1.26% (2025)
- Literacy Rate: 75.8% (2021)
- Urban Population: 30.1% (2023)
- Life Expectancy: 67.8 years (2024)
Economy
Comoros has a small, trade-oriented economy that relies heavily on agriculture and remittances. The economy has shown signs of recovery with real GDP growth projected at 3.4% in 2024. Key industries include fishing, tourism, and perfume distillation, although the country faces challenges such as a high poverty rate and dependence on external financial transfers.
- GDP (PPP): $3.092 billion (2024 est.)
- Real GDP per Capita: $3,600 (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 3.9% (2024 est.)
- Exports: $148.455 million (2023)
- Imports: $504.036 million (2023)
Government
The Comoros operates as a federal presidential republic with a legal system that combines Islamic law with civil law traditions. The president, AZALI Assoumani, has been in office since 2016 and was re-elected in January 2024. The country has decentralized governance with local assemblies for each of the three main islands.
- Capital: Moroni
- Constitution: Established in 2018
- Voting Age: 18 years
- Legislative Structure: Unicameral Assembly of the Union with 33 members
- Next Presidential Election: 2029
Military and Security
The Comoros military, known as the National Army for Development, consists of approximately 600 Defense Force personnel and operates under a defense treaty with France. The military is lightly armed, focusing on internal security, search, and rescue operations.
- Military Service Age: 18-25 years (voluntary, no conscription)
- Coast Guard and Federal Police: Essential components of internal security
- Defense Support: France provides naval resources and training.
Energy
Energy access in Comoros is moderately high, with nearly 90% of the population having electricity. The country relies entirely on fossil fuels for its electricity generation, facing challenges in infrastructure and energy resources.
- Electrification Rate: 89.9% (2022)
- Installed Capacity: 32,000 kW (2023)
- Total Energy Consumption per Capita: 7.139 million Btu (2023)
Environment
Comoros faces significant environmental issues, including deforestation and soil degradation, exacerbated by agricultural practices. The islands are party to several international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these challenges.
- Land Use: 71.5% agricultural land (2023)
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 436,000 metric tonnes (2023 est.)
- Water Resources: Total renewable water resources estimated at 1.2 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Transportation
The Comoros has a limited transportation network with several small airports and a merchant marine fleet supporting its trade activities. Major ports include Dzaoudzi, Fomboni, Moroni, and Moutsamoudu.
- Airports: 3 operational airports (2025)
- Merchant Marine: 273 vessels (2023)
- Ports: 4 total ports (all very small)
Communications
Telecommunications in Comoros is developing, with a mix of fixed and mobile subscriptions. Internet access remains limited, with around 36% of the population utilizing it as of 2023.
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 934,000 (2023)
- Fixed Line Subscriptions: 8,200 (2023)
- Internet Users: 36% of the population (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 911,707 (2025 est.) | Total population estimate |
| Area | 2,235 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (PPP) | $3.092 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.9% (2024 est.) | Percentage of labor force |
| Inflation Rate | 1% (2017 est.) | Consumer price changes |
| Birth Rate | 21.12 births/1,000 (2025 est.) | Annual birth rate |
| Electricity Access | 89.9% (2022 est.) | Total population with electricity |
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