The Comoro archipelago is situated in the Indian ocean north of Madagascar and consists of four main islands of volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs: Ngazidja, Nzwani, Mwali and Mayotte. The islands’ vegetation is rich and varied, providing spices and perfume essence for sale abroad. On Ngazidja (Grande Comore), the capital Moroni is a charming town containing modern government buildings, as well as old, narrow, winding streets and a marketplace. There are a number of fine mosques including the Vendredi Mosque that provides an attractive view over the town. Mount Karthala is an active volcano; the more energetic may climb to the top and then descend into the crater. It is usual to make one overnight stop at the shelter provided. Nzwani (Anjouan) island is notable for its waterfalls and abundant vegetation. Restaurants serve good food with spiced sauces, rice-based dishes, cassava, plantain, couscous, barbecued goat meat, seafood and tropical fruits.

1862 sq km (719 sq miles).

812,000 (UN, 2005).

436 per sq km.

Moroni. Population: 60,200 (2003).

The Comoro archipelago is situated in the Indian Ocean north of Madagascar and consists of four main islands of volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs: Ngazidja (formerly Grande Comore), Nzwani (formerly Anjouan), Mwali (formerly Mohéli) and Mahoré (Mayotte). The latter is administered by France but is claimed by the Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoros. Land can only support subsistence agriculture but the surrounding seas are rich in marine life.

Federal Islamic Republic. Head of State: President Azali Assoumani, since the military coup of April 1999. Recent history: Following the military coup of May 1999, the existing 1996 constitution and the Federal Assembly were suspended. A new constitution allowing for greater autonomy and individual elected administrations on each of the islands was introduced in 2002. Executive power is in the hands of the President, who is elected for a six-year term. Colonel Azzali Assoumani was declared President of the newly entitled Union of Comoros – which includes Anjouan and Moheli – after a disputed election in May 2002. By mid-2003, the new Government had faced just a single coup plot. Under the new constitutional arrangements, each island Governor may appoint eight Ministers to deal with local affairs, whilst the Union authorities will control foreign affairs, finance, defence, justice and religious matters. However, there remained areas where the division of authority was unclear, resulting in the signature of an agreement in 2003 to resolve the crisis. As a result, Parliamentary elections were held in 2004. The majority of seats were won by island rather than state candidates.

The official languages are French, Arabic and Comorian, a blend of Arabic and Swahili.

Muslim (mostly Sunni) with Roman Catholic minority.

220 volts AC, 50Hz. Electricity shortages occur.

Religious customs associated with Islam should be respected. Although Comorans are tolerant towards other cultures (for instance, alcohol is not banned and is available in hotels and restaurants), they expect moderate behaviour from non Muslim visitors, such as non consumption of alcohol in public places and modest dress in public.