Comoros, officially known as the Union of the Comoros, is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean located off the east coast of Africa. This African country is made up of three main Comoros islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli, with Moroni as the capital city. Although Comoros is one of the smallest countries in Africa, it has a rich culture, a unique history, and an important place in the Indian Ocean region.
This reading passage explores key Comoros facts, geography, culture, food, and daily life to help students better understand this fascinating island country.
Reading Passage: Comoros: An Island Nation in the Indian Ocean
Comoros is a small island country located in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the east coast of Africa. It is made up of three main islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. The capital city is Moroni, which sits near the ocean and a volcano called Mount Karthala. Comoros is best known for its beautiful beaches, rich marine life, and natural products such as vanilla, cloves, and ylang-ylang, a plant used to make perfume.
Many people ask whether Comoros is Arab or African. The answer is both. Comoros is an African country, but its culture has strong Arab influences. Most people are Muslim, and Arabic is one of the official languages, along with Comorian and French. The population shares traditions from Africa, the Arab world, and the Indian Ocean region. This mix can be seen in clothing, food, music, and daily life.
Here are five important facts about Comoros. First, it is one of the smallest countries in Africa. Second, fishing and farming are important for local families. Third, Comoros exports spices and perfume plants to other countries. Fourth, many people live in rural areas and depend on the land. Fifth, the country has faced political instability, which has slowed development. Major problems in Comoros include poverty, limited jobs, weak health services, and a lack of natural resources.
Food is an important part of Comorian culture. The national dish of Comoros is often considered Langouste à la vanille, which is lobster cooked with vanilla sauce. Another common national food includes rice served with fish, coconut milk, and spices. Alcohol is not commonly consumed in Comoros because of religious beliefs, and it is restricted in many places. Visitors usually drink tea, fruit juice, or fresh coconut water.
Many travelers wonder if Comoros is a safe country. In general, Comoros is peaceful, but visitors are advised to follow local rules and respect cultural traditions. Modest clothing is expected, especially in public places. Popular items to buy in Comoros include spices, handmade jewelry, woven baskets, and perfume made from ylang-ylang. These products reflect the country’s natural resources and cultural identity.
Comprehension Questions
Below is a variety of comprehension exercises related to the reading passage about Comoros:
Exercise 1: True or False: Write True (T) or False (F).
- Comoros is located in the Atlantic Ocean.
- The capital city of Comoros is Moroni.
- Comoros has three main islands.
- Most people in Comoros speak only English.
- Alcohol is widely consumed in Comoros.
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice: Choose the correct answer.
1. Comoros is best known for:
a) Oil and gold
b) Snowy mountains
c) Spices and perfume plants
d) Large factories
2. Which island is part of Comoros?
a) Zanzibar
b) Mohéli
c) Sicily
d) Mauritius
3. Why is Comoros described as both African and Arab?
a) It is located in Europe
b) Its culture mixes African and Arab influences
c) People speak only Arabic
d) It was colonized by Asia
Exercise 3: WH-Questions: Answer in complete sentences.
- Where is Comoros located?
- What are two major problems facing Comoros?
- What is the national dish of Comoros?
- What products do visitors often buy in Comoros?
Exercise 4: Vocabulary in Context: Match each word (1-4) with its correct meaning (a –d).
- Exports
- Capital
- Instability
- Modest
a) Simple and respectful in appearance
b) Goods sold to other countries
c) Political or social unrest
d) The main city of a country
Exercise 5: Gap-Fill: Complete the sentences using words from the box.
- Comoros is an island country in the __________.
- _________ is the capital city of Comoros.
- Comoros is made up of three main __________.
- Many people in Comoros are __________.
- The country exports spices such as __________.
