The Government of Mauritius and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have signed a grant agreement worth €500,000 to support the development of priority projects in the water resources management sector. The signing ceremony took place on Monday 22 July 2024, at the National Assembly in Port Louis, with the presence of high-ranking officials and dignitaries.
The grant, awarded under the Facilité d’Appui, de Préparation et de Suivi de Projets (Project Start-up, Preparation and Monitoring Facility) initiative, will finance feasibility studies for projects aimed at improving public water supply and access to sanitation, optimizing rainwater management through innovative solutions, and preventing flood damage through large-scale drainage operations.
The Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Dr. Renganaden Padayachy, and the Director of the AFD for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms. Laëtitia Habchi, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions. The ceremony was attended by other prominent officials, including the Minister of Energy and Public Utilities, Mr. Georges Pierre Lesjongard, and the Ambassador of France to Mauritius, Mr. Frédéric Bontems.
In their addresses, both Ministers Padayachy and Lesjongard praised the strong partnership between Mauritius and France, highlighting the significant contributions made by the AFD to the country’s socio-economic development through various infrastructural endeavors and technical assistance. They also recalled the €200 million loan and €2 million technical assistance grant from France aimed at enhancing water resources management in Mauritius and Rodrigues.
The Ministers emphasized the importance of achieving water resources sustainability in light of climate change’s impact on water resources. They reiterated their commitment to developing an integrated water resources management system that meets the growing demands of the population and supports economic activities such as agriculture.
Ambassador Bontems noted that the grant demonstrates France’s willingness to support Mauritius’ sustainable development and assist in addressing present-day challenges, particularly those related to climate change. He stressed that the collaboration will foster dialogue between the two nations to achieve a more rational and sustainable management of water resources essential for public health, economic prosperity, and environmental protection.
Ms. Habchi highlighted the long-standing partnership between Mauritius and France, which dates back to 1981 with the implementation of a masterplan on water resources management. She elaborated on how this partnership has contributed to improved water distribution and supply, strengthened hydraulic networks, and enhanced public water access.
The grant is expected to play a crucial role in supporting Mauritius’ efforts to develop innovative solutions for sustainable water management, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and ensuring a better future for its citizens.