PEOPLE
The Comorians
inhabiting Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Moheli (86% of the population)
share African-Arab origins. Islam is the dominant religion, and
Koranic schools for children reinforce its influence. Although
Arab culture is firmly established throughout the archipelago,
a substantial minority of the citizens of Mayotte (the Mahorais)
are Catholic and have been strongly influenced by French culture.
The
most common language is Shikomoro, a Swahili dialect. French and
Arabic also are spoken. About 57% of the population is literate.
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Comoran(s).
Population (2006 est.): 690,948. Mayotte (1990 est.)--70,000.
Annual growth rate (2006 est.): 2.87%.
Ethnic groups: Antalote, Cafre, Makoa, Oimatsaha, Sakalava.
Religions: Sunni Muslim 98%, Roman Catholic 2%.
Languages: Shikomoro (a Swahili-Arabic blend), Arabic (official), French (official).
Education: Attendance--60% primary, 34% secondary. Literacy--56.5%.
Health: Life expectancy--62.33yrs. Infant mortality rate--72.85/1,000.
Work force (1996): 144,500. Agriculture--80%.
