Comorian, Maore in Reunion

Introduction / History

The Mayotte Comorians in Reunion are a blend of settlers from the past: Iranian traders, mainland Africans, Arabs and Malagasy. Because of poor economic conditions, the islands receive monetary and technical support from other countries. Some seek their fortune in nearby countries like Madagascar.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of these islanders work as farmers or fishermen, while a few raise cattle, sheep, goats, and donkeys. A small number work in industry or in jobs relating to tourism. The basic diet of the Comorians consists of rice, potatoes, corn, fish, coconuts, and bananas. Other crops that they grow include sweet potatoes, citrus fruits and pineapples. Although young people wear Western style clothing, traditional clothing is still common among the adults. In town, a Comorian man will typically wear a white cotton garment and a knee-length shirt, sometimes with a white jacket and a white skull cap. When he goes out of town, he wears a long cloth sarong (colorful skirt). Most women wear long, colorful cotton dresses, with bright shawls as face coverings. Other women prefer wearing black robes that cover their heads. Polygamy is an acceptable practice among Mayotte Comorians in Madagascar. Children are expected to help with the farming, fishing and caring for the animals. For recreation, Mayotte Comorians enjoy dancing, singing, and playing instruments, especially horns and drums.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Maore Comorians in Reunion are Muslims who believe that the one, supreme God, Allah, spoke through his prophet, Mohammad, and taught mankind how to live a righteous life through the Koran and the Hadith. These people depend upon good works to pay the penalty for their sins. They depend upon the spirit world for their daily needs because they regard Allah as too distant. They believe that Allah may determine their eternal salvation, but the spirits determine how well they live in their daily lives. Consequently, they must appease the spirits. They often use charms and amulets to help them with spiritual forces.

What Are Their Needs?

The physical needs of the Maore Comorians on the island of Reunion are numerous. Major problems on the Comoros Islands include poverty, disease and hunger. Educational levels are low. There is a shortage of hospitals and doctors, and many people suffer from illnesses and chronic malnutrition. Because of a poor water supply, good hygiene is lacking. Such problems contribute to a high death rate, especially among young children. The spiritual needs of the Maore Comorians are even greater than their physical needs. Though freedom of religion exists in Madagascar, evangelism is not well received by these Muslims. Their commitment to Islam coupled with involvement in occult practices has made these people difficult to reach.

Prayer Points

Pray that Almighty God will open a way for Maore Comorians in Reunion to find hope, peace and joy in Jesus Christ as their sin-bearer. Pray that they will begin an unstoppable Disciple Making Movement that will grow among them bringing Comorians of all ages to their Savior. Pray that families will be healed and rooted in the Truth of God's Word in their daily lives.

Text Source:   Joshua Project