Comoros

1830s – First French Protectorate: The French establish a protectorate over the Comoros

1866 – French colonization: France formally colonizes the Comoros islands

1975 – Independence from France (Friday, July 6, 1975): The Comoros gains independence after years of French colonial rule

1990s – Political instability: The islands face frequent coups, political unrest, and military takeovers

2001 – Union of the Comoros established: The country becomes a federal republic with an agreement between the islands

2008 – International aid and peace process: The islands receive international aid, and efforts are made to stabilize the political situation

2016 – Presidential elections: President Azali Assoumani is re-elected for a second term

2020 – Political reforms: A referendum amends the constitution, allowing for political changes, and reducing the number of presidents rotating among the islands

Continent: Africa (Eastern Africa)
Location: Situated in the Indian Ocean, between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique
Capital: Moroni
Language: Comorian (official), French (official), Arabic (official)
Currency: Comorian franc (KMF)
Population: ~850,000 (last updated: April 2025)
Time Zone: East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3)

Borders: No land borders, as the Comoros is an island nation
Landscape: Volcanic islands with mountainous terrain and lush tropical vegetation
Major Rivers: None (due to the archipelagic nature of the country)
Major Mountains: Mount Karthala (an active volcano, the highest peak in the Comoros)
Deserts: None
Lakes: No significant lakes
Volcanoes: Mount Karthala, an active shield volcano that is one of the most active in the world
Notable Features: The country consists of four volcanic islands (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan, and Mayotte), surrounded by coral reefs.

Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Comorian (of Arab, African, and Malagasy descent)
Religion: Islam (almost 100%)
Urban Population: ~55% (last updated: 2023)
Population Notes: The Comoros has a diverse culture influenced by African, Arab, and Malagasy heritage.

Famous For: Traditional music, dance, and arts influenced by Arab, African, and Malagasy cultures
Cuisine: Seafood, rice, cassava, bananas, and dishes like M’tsolola (a fish dish)
Arts: Traditional crafts such as basket weaving, wood carving, and making jewelry
Sports: Football (soccer), volleyball, and traditional sports like Karts (sprint races)

Economy Type: Developing, heavily reliant on agriculture, fishing, and remittances from abroad
GDP: Approx. $1.3 billion USD (last updated: 2024)
Major Industries: Agriculture (cloves, vanilla, ylang-ylang), fishing, tourism
Key Exports: Cloves, vanilla, ylang-ylang, perfume products
Unemployment Rate: ~14.5% (last updated: 2024)
Economic Regions: The economy relies heavily on agriculture in the islands, especially for the production of spices like cloves and vanilla.

Government Type: Federal presidential republic
Head of State: President Azali Assoumani (last updated: April 2025)
Head of Government: President Azali Assoumani (last updated: April 2025)
Legislature: Unicameral Assembly of the Union of the Comoros
Constitution: In effect since 2002, with amendments in 2018

Mount Karthala: An active volcano offering trekking opportunities and spectacular views
Moroni: The capital city, with a mix of Arab, African, and Malagasy cultural influences
Moheli Marine Park: A marine park known for its coral reefs, sea turtles, and diverse marine life
Anjouan: Known for its lush landscapes and historical sites
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: None at the moment