Population

The total population of the Comoro Islands has been estimated to be over 700,000 people. The average density is greater than 182.5 persons per square kilometer, varying between less than 70 persons per square kilometer in Mwali to over 349 persons per square kilometer in Nzwani. Nzwani is one of the most highly populated islands in the world.

In recent decades the population was increased by the forced evacuation of Comorians from Madagascar and Zanzibar. These peoples resettled in the Comoros adding to an already difficult situation. Earlier, changes in politics in the area had reduced the opportunities for Comorian men to go abroad; one means that had effectively eased population pressures. There still are a number of Comorians living abroad. Comorians can be found living in many parts of the world. Most Comorian emigrants live in Europe with an estimated 60,000 living in France alone today. A number of Comorians or people of Comorian descent can also be found along the East African coast.

The present population increase is estimated to be nearly 3.0% per year with an annual birth rate exceeding 35 births per 1,000 and an annual death rate less than 8 deaths per 1,000 population.

The inhabitants are a blend of various peoples of the Indian Ocean littoral. African, Malagasy, and Arabic features are clearly evident. Maritime commerce before entry of Europeans into the Indian Ocean brought Comorians into contact with peoples from southern Africa to southeast Asia. Since the end of the fifteenth century European influence has also impacted Comorian life.

A bride from Nzwani.