The Union of the Comoros (UoC) is a three-island archipelago off East Africa that faces significant developmental challenges—recently classified as a lower middle-income country with a GDP per capita of $1,478.
The UoC recently celebrated a significant milestone by inaugurating a new 30-mile section of National Road 2, a project funded entirely by the African Development Bank. This event marked a pivotal moment for the country, coinciding with its 49th independence anniversary.
President Azali Assoumani and Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, jointly inaugurated this crucial road linking Moroni, the capital of Grande Comore, to the southeastern Foumbouni region. This infrastructure development is poised to revolutionize transportation in Comoros and promises substantial economic benefits. Notably, it is expected to increase daily traffic by 27%, reduce vehicle operational costs by up to 33%, and cut travel times by half.
During the ceremony, President Assoumani highlighted the African Development Bank’s pivotal role in realizing this project, emphasizing its impact on agricultural potential and tourism in the region. Dr. Adesina echoed these sentiments, envisioning the road as a “Road of Hope,” underscoring its transformative potential for the local economy and connectivity within the region.
The completion of the project is part of the broader National Road Network Rehabilitation Programme, which the African Development Bank has supported since 2017. This initiative aligns with the Bank’s 2021-2025 Country Strategy Paper for Comoros, which aims to enhance sustainable transport infrastructure to foster regional integration and economic resilience.
Economically, the UoC has seen modest growth, averaging 2.4% annually over the past decade due to structural limitations like a small population and geographic isolation. Despite challenges, improved electricity and remittances sustain economic momentum, though setbacks like Cyclone Kenneth and COVID-19 have hindered growth.
Socially, high poverty rates persist, with 36.3% living below $3.20 a day. Gender inequality is stark, particularly in political and labor spheres, highlighting systemic disparities.
The UoC’s economy needs structural transformation to diversify and create jobs, particularly for youth and women, bolstering resilience against economic shocks.
Aligned with the Emerging Comoros Plan 2030 and SCA2D 2018-2021, the African Development Bank’s 2021-2025 Country Strategy Paper focuses on sustainable energy and transport infrastructure to enhance connectivity and economic integration. This supports national goals and international frameworks like the SDGs.
Looking ahead, the African Development Bank plans to extend significant financial support to Comoros, focusing on infrastructure projects crucial for the country’s development goals under the Emerging Comoros Plan 2030. Strategically positioned in the Mozambique Channel, the Union of the Comoros stands poised to leverage its geographical advantage, supported by ongoing partnerships and strategic investments.
