Mayotte

With a population of over 320,000 people compressed into just 374 square kilometers, Mayotte exhibits an extremely high population density (approximately 858 people per sq km). This density is significantly higher than most African nations and signals critical pressure on infrastructure, housing, and natural resources, particularly given its island geography.

Although geographically located in Eastern Africa (Comoros Archipelago) and listed under the Africa region, Mayotte is an overseas department and region of France. This unique status creates a paradox where African regional challenges intersect with European Union standards and funding, influencing its governance and economic structure significantly.

The capital, Mamoudzou, likely serves as the overwhelming hub for economic, political, and social activity due to the country's small area (374 sq km) and relatively large population. This centralization suggests limited regional development outside the main urban area, typical of small island states.

Mayotte's location in the Eastern Africa subregion, specifically near the Comoros Islands, implies intense cross-border migration pressures. Its status as a French territory acts as a powerful economic magnet, driving demographic shifts and creating significant social and governance challenges related to immigration control and integration.