Moroni

Moroni, the largest city and federal capital of the Union of the Comoros, is located on the western coast of Ngazidja, the largest of the three principal islands in this sovereign archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean. The city’s name comes from the Shingazidja phrase “mroni,” which means “at the river,” therefore reflecting its geographical position. Moroni’s estimated population in 2003 came to 41,557 people.

Situated along Route Nationale 1, the city boasts a port that allows the export of a variety of items created on the island, including processed and distilled essential oils, metal and wood products, vanilla, soft beverages, processed pozzolana (cement). Despite continuous economic growth, Moroni’s tourist infrastructure is poor and marked by few hotels and nightclubs for guests. One can get trekking and exploring chances at the dormant Karthala volcano.

Mostly devoid of beaches, Moroni’s shoreline has a stony volcanic makeup. Many villages surround the city; to the north are Itsandra, Ntsoudjini, Ouellah, Bahani, Batsa, Vanambouani, and Vanadjou; to the south are Ikoni, Mvouni, Daoueni, and Selea. Though it is typified by poor care, the mediaeval town core, known as the Medina, consists of a complicated network of little lanes and old buildings. Though smaller than the old town of Lamu, this historic city core resembles notable as the oldest mosque in the Medina of Moroni is the Badjanani Mosque, sometimes known as Ancienne Mosquée de Vendredi. Built in 1427, the building saw a minaret added in 1921.

Moroni has several sites to support social and cultural events. Comprising a 300-seat theatre capable of hosting national and international events, ceremonies, film screenings, and seminars, the Alliance Franco-Comorienne is other important sites include the 300-seat Foyer des Jeunes de Foumbouni, the 500-seat Palais du Peuple, and the 700-seat Al-Kamar.

In Moroni, banks include the Banque Centrale des Comores, Banque de Development des Comores, and Banque pour Industries et le Commerce provide financial services. Comprising the ancient market and the bigger market at Volo Volo in the north, the city’s marketplaces are vital hubs for trade and business.