Comoros shortages

At press time, the Union of Comoros was continuing to experience gasoline and diesel fuel shortages following a July 2008 termination of a sole-source supply contract for the country’s fuel needs.

Street demonstrations protesting the lack of fuel had occurred in the capital of Moroni and on the island of Anjouan. The protests were primarily directed against the Comoran government, but past protests were directed against the French and other Westerners residing in the country.

The political and security situation in Moroni is tense, and the possibility of spontaneous mob violence throughout Comoros is a concern. Fuel shortages had severely impacted the availability of transportation as well as electricity and running water.