#KnowYourCosafaCupCountries: Comoros
The Comoro Islands, or Comoros is situated off the south-east coast of Africa
POLOKWANE – The islands can be found north-west of Madagascar and east of Mozambique. It is an extensive group of volcanic islands.
The Flag design consists of a white crescent with four white five-pointed stars inside a green triangle. The flag has four stripes that represents the four islands of the nation:
• Yellow is for Mohéli,
• White is for Mayotte that was claimed by Comoros but are administered by France,
• Red is for Anjouan,
•Blue is for Grande Comore.
The official language is Comorian (or Shikmoro) which is a Bantu languge related to Swahili, French and Arabic. Comorian is spoken by 96.9% of the country, but is confined mostly to the spoken language
Comorian cuisine is as varied as its people. The mixing of flavors from numerous cultures and traditions, Comorian dishes have taken a unique dimension that invites curiosity.
Gastronomy is an integral part of our cultural wealth and culinary influences include Indian flavors with a variety of spices and starches mixed with African, Malagasy as well as parts of modern French cuisine. It is an essential tool for the promotion and development of tourism and culture of our country.
Kaimati za madjwayi (egg cakes)
Facts:
1. The volcanic islands of the Comorianarchipelago have been called the “perfumed islands” for their fragrant plant life and are known for their great scenic beauty.
2. About 2% of the Comoros population, who are generally Roman Catholics, practices Christianity. The government tends to discourage the practice of other faiths, particularly Christianity. There are only two Roman Catholic churches and one Protestant church.
3. Comoros is the second-largest producer of vanilla in the world. It is second only to Madagascar.
4. The Livingstone’s Fruit Bat, discovered in Comoros by the Scottish explorer in 1863, is the world’s largest bat, with a wingspan of around six feet.
5. More than 20 species of birds are also unique to the Comoros, including the Karthala Scops-Owl, the Anjouan Scops-Owl, and the Humblot’s Flycatcher.
6. The Mongoose Lemur, originally introduced from Madagascar is also now found only on two islands in the Comoros.
