Mayotte, an overseas department of France in the Indian Ocean, comprises two islands and has a population of about 338,100. It features a volcanic landscape, a service-based economy, and high density. Colonially influenced by France, Mayotte has seen political tension with Comoros, especially regarding its sovereignty. Recent cyclones have exacerbated living conditions, resulting in significant destruction and a focus on the island’s socio-economic challenges.
Mayotte is an overseas department of France located in the Comoros archipelago, specifically in the Mozambique Channel of the western Indian Ocean. It is approximately 190 miles northwest of Madagascar and is comprised of the two southeasternmost islands, Mayotte (or Grande Terre) and Pamandzi. The capital, Mamoudzou, is situated on Mayotte’s eastern coast and is connected to Pamandzi by a causeway. The total area of Mayotte is 144.5 square miles (374.2 square kilometers).
The island features a volcanic mountain range with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 feet. Surrounding coral reefs create protected waters ideal for shipping and fishing. The climate is characterized by warm temperatures between 75°F to 81°F and high annual rainfall of 200 inches. Dense tropical vegetation thrives due to the humid maritime climate.
Politically, Mayotte is headed by Prefect François-Xavier Bieuville and President of the Departmental Council Ben Issa Ousseni. The estimated population in 2025 is 338,100, and it is projected to decrease to 323,000 by 2030. The population density is notably high, with over 2,300 persons per square mile. Life expectancy is around 72 years for males and 74 years for females.
The economy of Mayotte primarily relies on the service sector, including health care and telecommunications, while agriculture is limited to the central and northeastern plains with cash crops like vanilla and ylang-ylang. Imports to the island include food products and machinery, with metropolitan France being its major trading partner. The infrastructure includes roads linking towns and an international airport located in Dzaoudzi.
Mayotte’s status as an overseas department changed from a collectivité territoriale in 1976 to a departmental collectivity in 2001 and finally to an overseas department in 2011, following a referendum where 95 percent supported the change. The island’s governance has been contested by Comoros since 1975. Mayotte, which has influenced the majority population’s fraternity with French culture, presents a predominantly Sunni Muslim population, with a significant Christian minority.
Historically, Mayotte was influenced heavily by Arab invaders in the 15th century and later by Portuguese and French explorers. Following colonial control by France in 1843, Mayotte continued under French administration despite a UN resolution affirming Comoros’s sovereignty over the island. Economic hardships led to significant migration from Comoros to Mayotte. The recent cyclone (Chido) in December 2024 caused catastrophic damage, leading to widespread homelessness and fatalities.
Mayotte, as an overseas department of France, presents a rich historical and cultural landscape influenced by its colonial past and demographic fluctuations. Economically, it remains reliant on French aid despite its service-oriented employment sector. The island’s geographic and climatic features contribute to its unique biodiversity. Political tensions with Comoros and recent natural disasters like Cyclone Chido underscore the challenges faced by this impoverished territory, emphasizing the need for sustainable development and disaster preparedness.
Original Source: www.britannica.com
