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Mutsamudu Oil Depot
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The Mutsamudu Oil Depot is a critical energy infrastructure facility on Anjouan Island, managed by the Société Comorienne des Hydrocarbures (SCH). This facility serves as the primary hub for the storage and distribution of essential petroleum products, including diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel, for the southern region of the archipelago. Its strategic location adjacent to the international port of Mutsamudu facilitates the direct discharge of fuel from arriving tankers. Given that the island's electricity generation relies almost entirely on thermal power plants, the depot's operational stability is vital for maintaining public services. Recent years have seen efforts to upgrade safety standards and storage tanks to mitigate the risk of environmental contamination in the surrounding waters. The depot supports not only land transport but also the local fishing fleet and small-scale industries that drive the regional economy. Ensuring a consistent strategic reserve at this site is a cornerstone of the national energy security policy for the Comoros.
- Location: Comoros
- Top sights: Citadel · Marahaba Sambi mrHb smby
- Nearby: Ouani (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 222 | 162 | 150 | 119 | 58 | 33 | 27 | 21 | 19 | 36 | 50 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Mutsamudu Oil Depot on Anjouan is a strategic facility for storing fuels for the entire island. It secures the energy supply for households, industry and transport.
Visiting
The depot site is strictly secured for safety reasons and not open to the public. Viewing from outside is only possible from the harbour quay or the coastal road.
Where to view it
From the harbour of Mutsamudu, there is a good view of the large white tanks of the oil depot. The nearby jetty also features an unobstructed view of the facility.
Local products
In the area, local markets mainly offer agricultural products such as coconuts, bananas and cloves. Fuel products are not directly available.
Active season
The depot operates year-round, with fuel demand rising in the dry season (May to October) when agricultural activity increases. Tanker deliveries arrive seasonally.
Nearby
A visit can be combined with a walk through Mutsamudu's old town, known for its narrow alleys and old fortress. The neighbouring shipyard is also worth a detour.
Geography
Facts
- Managed by the state-owned SCH hydrocarbon company
- Strategic storage for diesel, gasoline, and kerosene
- Located within the Mutsamudu port industrial zone
- Directly supplies the island's main thermal power grid
- Safety protocols were significantly upgraded after 2010
- Primary distribution point for the entire Anjouan region
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Mutsamudu Oil Depot (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the oil depot open to the public?
No, the area is strictly guarded for security reasons.
Why is the oil depot so important for Mutsamudu?
It serves as a critical hub for fuel supply.
What is near the depot?
There are port and industrial facilities in the immediate vicinity.
Can one photograph the site?
Photography is strictly prohibited at this site.
Is there tourist information there?
No, there is no tourist information or provides.
Mutsamudu Oil Depot: where is it located?
Mutsamudu Oil Depot is located in Comoros.
Mutsamudu Oil Depot: what is there to see?
Highlights include Citadel, Marahaba Sambi mrHb smby.
Mutsamudu Oil Depot: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mutsamudu Oil Depot: why is it worth visiting?
The Mutsamudu Oil Depot is a critical energy infrastructure facility on Anjouan Island, managed by the Société Comorienne des Hydrocarbures (SCH).
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Nearby cities
Mutsamudu
Mutsamudu is the second largest city in the Comoros and the capital of Anjouan island.
Tsembehou
Tsembehou is a highland town in central Anjouan.
Domoni
Domoni is a historic city on the east coast of Anjouan island.
Mirontsi
Mirontsi is a suburb of Mutsamudu and an important residential area.
Adda-Douéni
Adda-Douéni is a densely settled town in eastern Anjouan.
Ouani
Ouani is located near Mutsamudu and hosts the airport of Anjouan island.
Sima
Sima is an important town in the west of Anjouan island.
Moya
Moya is a coastal town in the south of Anjouan, known for its picturesque setting.
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Barakani
Barakani lies between Mutsamudu and Ouani on Anjouan.
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Mrémani
Mrémani is a town in the southern highlands of Anjouan island.
Ongojou
Ongojou is a town in the central part of Anjouan.
Bambao
Bambao is a significant region and town on Anjouan.
Pomoni
Pomoni is a historic town on the west coast of Anjouan.
Bazmini
Bazmini is a small town in northeastern Anjouan.
History & landmarks
Old Mutsamudu City Gates
The historic city gates of Mutsamudu mark the entrances to the old medina and are relics of the former fortification.
Grand Mosque of Mutsamudu
The Grand Mosque of Mutsamudu is an architectural landmark in the second largest city of the Comoros.
Mutsamudu Port
Mutsamudu has the only deep-water port in the Comoros, which is crucial for international freight traffic.
Ouani Airport Terminal
The Ouani airport terminal is the main air gateway to Anjouan.
Nature
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River Goulat
The Goulat is a river in northwestern Anjouan that flows into the Indian Ocean.
Lake Dzialandzé
Lake Dzialandzé is a crater lake in the highlands of Anjouan and an important water source for the island.
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Lingoni Waterfalls
The Lingoni Waterfalls are an impressive natural spectacle in the heart of Anjouan.
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River Ajaho
The Ajaho is one of the few permanent rivers on the island of Anjouan.
More places
Mutsamudu Shipyard
The Mutsamudu shipyard specializes in the maintenance and repair of small coastal freighters and fishing boats.
Mutsamudu Thermal Plant
The Mutsamudu plant is the primary source of electricity on Anjouan island, supplying both residential areas and industry.
Citadel of Mutsamudu
The Citadel of Mutsamudu was built in the 18th century to protect Anjouan island from pirate attacks.
Medina of Mutsamudu
The Medina of Mutsamudu is the historic heart of the city, featuring a labyrinth of narrow streets and centuries-old houses.
Royal Necropolis of Mutsamudu
The Royal Necropolis in Mutsamudu houses the tombs of many rulers of the Sultanate of Anjouan.
Anjouan Carpentry Workshop
In this workshop, high-quality furniture and construction elements are crafted from local wood for the archipelago.
Historic Mosque of Mirontsi
The mosque of Mirontsi is a significant religious monument on Anjouan with characteristic architecture.
Mutsamudu Vanilla Center
This center specializes in the sorting, curing, and packaging of the world-famous Comorian Bourbon vanilla.