1. Where is Comoros located?
Comoros is located in the Indian Ocean off the eastern coast of Africa and is comprised of three volcanic islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. It is not bordered by any countries.
2. What is the official name of the country?
The official name is the Union of the Comoros.
3. How many islands make up the Comoros archipelago?
There are three main islands: Grande Comore (Ngazidja), Anjouan (Mohéli), and Mohéli (Mwali), along with several smaller islets.
4. What is the highest point in the Comoros?
Karthala, a volcano on Grande Comore, is the highest point at 2,361 meters (7,746 feet).
5. What is the capital city of the Comoros?
Moroni, located on Grande Comore, is the capital city.
6. What is the official language of the Comoros?
French is the official language, along with Comorian, which is a combination of Arabic, Bantu, and Swahili.
7. What is the main religion in the Comoros?
Islam is the predominant religion, practiced by over 98% of the population.
8. What is the currency of the Comoros?
The Comorian franc (CF) is the official currency.
9. What is the national dish of the Comoros?
Mkatra, a stew made with rice, beans, meat, and vegetables, is considered the national dish.
10. What is a unique cultural tradition in the Comoros?
Dhikr, a rhythmic chanting of religious verses, is an important part of Comorian culture and is often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
11. What is the main agricultural product of the Comoros?
Vanilla is the main export crop, along with cloves, ylang-ylang, and coconuts.
12. What are some wildlife species found in the Comoros?
The islands are home to unique species like the Comoros blue pigeon, the Humblot's sunbird, and the endangered Malagasy civet.
13. What is the traditional music of the Comoros called?
Taarab is a popular genre that blends Arabic, Indian, and Swahili influences.
14. When did the Comoros gain independence from France?
The Comoros gained independence in 1975.
15. What is the form of government in the Comoros?
The Comoros is a federal Islamic republic with a semi-presidential system.
16. What is a major challenge facing the Comoros?
Poverty, political instability, and vulnerability to natural disasters are some of the challenges facing the country.
17. What is a famous historical figure from the Comoros?
Said Ali Kemal, a poet and politician who advocated for Comorian independence, is considered a national hero.
18. What is a popular sport in the Comoros?
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the country.
19. What is the currency known for in the Comoros?
Comorian francs are often decorated with colorful motifs and local landmarks, making them popular among collectors.
20. What is a unique natural feature of the Comoros?
Lake Asasa, located on Grande Comore, is a crater lake known for its changing colors depending on the sunlight and algae blooms.