Mayotte is an overseas department of France located in the Comoros archipelago, known for being the poorest territory in France. It has a tropical climate, a predominantly young population, and is economically dependent on the service sector and French aid. Historically, it shifted from a French colony to an overseas department and faces ongoing challenges related to poverty and natural disasters, such as the recent Cyclone Chido.
Mayotte is an overseas department of France, comprising two southeastern islands of the Comoros archipelago. Located in the Mozambique Channel, it is approximately 190 miles northwest of Madagascar and holds the distinction of being the poorest territory in France and the European Union. The capital, Mamoudzou, is situated on the main island, also referred to as Grande Terre, with a smaller island, Pamandzi, connected by a causeway to Dzaoudzi, which features a port and town. The total area of Mayotte is 144.5 square miles, or 375 square kilometers.
The island’s topography includes a volcanic mountain range stretching north to south, with elevations between 1,600 to 2,000 feet. It is sheltered by coral reefs, creating protected waters ideal for shipping and fishing. The climate is warm and humid, with monthly average temperatures ranging from 75°F in August to 81°F in December. Mayotte experiences annual rainfall averaging 200 inches, supporting a lush tropical rainforest.
The head of government is the Prefect, currently François-Xavier Bieuville, and the President of the Departmental Council is Ben Issa Ousseni. The estimated population for 2025 is 338,100, with Emmanuel Macron serving as the President of France. The official language is French, and there is no official religion. Mayotte became an overseas department of France in March 2011, following its prior status as a departmental collectivity. Significantly, Comoros has laid claim to Mayotte since its declaration of independence in 1975.
The demographic profile reveals that the populace primarily comprises Mahorais people of Malagasy origin, predominantly Sunni Muslims, alongside a Roman Catholic minority. The local languages include French and a dialect of Comorian, which is closely related to Swahili. While a slight majority reside in rural settings, urban centers such as Mamoudzou, Koungou, and Dzaoudzi also play significant roles. The population is notably young, with over 40% of residents under the age of 15.
Mayotte’s economy is predominantly driven by the service sector, including health, telecommunications, and computer services, along with agriculture focused on cash crops such as vanilla and ylang-ylang. The main exports consist of ylang-ylang extracts and farmed fish, while significant imports include food products and machinery. Mayotte is highly reliant on French aid, and it maintains a road system connecting key towns, along with an international airport in Dzaoudzi.
Historically, Mayotte has experienced significant events that shaped its current status. Originally inhabited by Bantu and Malay peoples, it was invaded by Arabs in the 15th century and subsequently colonized by the French in 1843. Following a declaration of independence by the Comoros in 1975, Mayotte’s population opted to remain under French governance. A special status was established in 1976, however, this was formally changed to that of an overseas department in 2011 after a referendum showed overwhelming support for the transition.
The socio-economic conditions in Mayotte have remained challenging, with many residing in substandard housing. A catastrophic event occurred in December 2024 when Cyclone Chido struck the island, leaving numerous neighborhoods devastated and one-third of the population without shelter or access to clean water.
In summary, Mayotte is an important overseas department of France that has faced numerous historical, socio-economic, and environmental challenges. Its diverse population, significantly influenced by Malay and Arabic cultures, alongside its strategic location, highlights the complexities of its governance and economy. The devastation wrought by recent natural disasters, such as Cyclone Chido, underscores the urgent need for support and recovery efforts to manage its economic hardships and improve living conditions for its inhabitants.
Original Source: www.britannica.com
