Comoros Population and Language
The Comoros are one of Africa’s most densely populated countries. The residents are of mixed origin, with predominantly African, Arabic, Malay-Polynesian and Malagasy roots.
The residents of the cities often have stronger Arab characteristics, while the rural residents are generally more African (Bantu people). More than half the population lives on the island of Grand Comore, but the problems of overpopulation are greatest on the smaller island of Anjouan. Many live there for cultivation for their own use, which increases the difficulties when the soil is not sufficient.
- COUNTRYAAH.COM: Key populations estimated size and data of Comoros, including population density of how many people per square mile. Also included are facts for population and language.
At least 100,000 Comoros live abroad, nearly half of them in southern France. Many communities also live in Madagascar and in eastern Africa.
The commonly spoken language of Comorian is a variant of Swahili spoken in much of eastern Africa. Comorian has a stronger element of Arabic than Swahili has. Each island has its own dialect of Comorian. French and Arabic are also official languages. Arabic is used mainly in religious contexts, while French is used in administration, commerce and education.
A minority speaks the bantu language of Makua, which is common in Mozambique.
FACTS – POPULATION AND LANGUAGE
Population
almost everyone is of mixed origin, mainly Arabic and African (Bantu people)
Number of residents
813 912 (2017)
Number of residents per square kilometer
437 (2017)
Percentage of residents in the cities
28.8 percent (2017)
Nativity / birth
32.9 per 1000 residents (2016)
Mortality / mortality
7.4 per 1000 residents (2016)
POPULATION GROWTH
2.3 percent (2017)
fertility rate
4.3 number of births per woman (2016)
Percentage of women
49.6 percent (2017)
Life expectancy
64 years (2016)
Life expectancy for women
65 years (2016)
Life expectancy for men
62 years (2016)
Language
Comorian, Arabic and French are official languages
2008
December
The IMF launches financial rescue package
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is launching a rescue package for the Comorian’s crisis economy.
August
Food and gasoline shortages trigger protests
Strikes and protest actions erupt around the country since there has been a shortage of both food and gasoline. The reason for the popular dissatisfaction is that the Comoros’ economy is deteriorating as a result of skyrocketing costs for the oversized state administration.
March
President is forced to flee
Comorian soldiers invade Anjouan with the support of troops from the AU. President Bacar is forced to flee to the French neighbor Mayotte.