Ministry of Environment and National Development Unit

MAURITIUS Staking out the future

2005 CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES 6

LIST OF TABLES 6

LIST OF BOXES 7

FOREWORD 12

PREFACE 1144

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS 16

MAURITIUS AT A GLANCE 21

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 26

INTRODUCTION 37

CHAPTER 1 CLIMATE CHANGE AND SEA-LEVE RISE 43

CHAPTER 2 NATURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTERS 53

CHAPTER 3 LAND RESOURCES 63

CHAPTER 4 BIODIVERSITY RESOURCES 75

Ministry of Environment CHAPTER 5 Ken Lee Tower Corner of Line Barracks & St Georges Streets COASTAL AND MARINE RESOURCES 87 Port Louis Republic of Mauritius CHAPTER 6 Telephone: (230) 212 8327 Fax: +(230) 212 9407 TOURISM RESOURCES 107 Email: [email protected] Website: http://environment.gov.mu CHAPTER 7 © Copyright 2005 by Government of Mauritius FRESHWATER MANAGEMENT 117

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MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE CHAPTER 8 ENERGY RESOURCES 131

CHAPTER 9 MANAGEMENT OF WASTES 143

CHAPTER 10 HEALTH 159

CHAPTER 11 TRADE AND INVESTMENT 171

CHAPTER 12. TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS 183

CHAPTER 13 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION 195

CHAPTER14 EDUCATION 203 Partnership for

CHAPTER 15 Sustainable Development TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT 211

CHAPTER 16 REFORM OF THE STATE 219

CHAPTER 17 RODRIGUES AND THE OUTER ISLANDS 229

CHAPTER 18 GETTING OVER THE STAKES 236

INDEX OF KEY DOCUMENTS 245

4 List of Figures List of Boxes

Figure 1.1 Mauritius and comparative CO2 emission Box 1.1 Policy and planning under the UNFCCC Figure 1.2 Total emissions of greenhouse gases, 1995-2003 Box 1.2 Detailed action under the UNFCCC Figure 1.3 Sectoral carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel, 1995-2003 Box 1.3 A worse case scenario; a sea-level rise of 1 meter in Flic-en-Flac Figure 3.1 Land use in Mauritius Box 1.4 Changes in energy consumption to reduce GHGs Figure 5.1 Tourist arrivals and receipt 1994-2003 Box 2.1 Public early warnings of cyclones Figure 6.1 Tourist arrivals and receipts 1990, Mauritius and other African SIDS Box 2.2 Potential sources of oil spills in Mauritius Figure 7.1 Water Balance, 1998-2003 Box 3.1 Land development permits Figure 7.2 Water stress Box 4.1 Flora conservation Figure 8.1 Trend of local energy sources and imported Petroleum products (1994-2003) Box 4.2 Management of biodiversity initiatives Figure 8.2 Relative use of energy by various sectors of the economy (1994-2003) and Box 4.3 Biotechnology Energy consumption in various sectors of the economy in 2003 Box 4.4 Legal framework for biodiversity Figure 8.3 Number of registered vehicles (1991-2003) Box 4.5 Intervention and Regional Conventions and agreement Figure 8.4 Number of vehicles and CO2 emissions (1990-1998) Box 5.1 Integrated Coastal Management, an evidence based approach,The Principal Figure 9.1 Waste conveyed to Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill (1999-2003) elements of coastal zone management in Mauritius Figure 9.2 Forecast for the generation of municipal solid waste Box 5.2 Action on water quality in coastal waters Figure 10.1 Safe water and child health Box 5.3 Objectives of the Mauritius Oceanographic Institute Figure 10.2 Mauritius: Infant mortality Box 5.4 Projects initiated by Mauritius Oceanographic Institute Figure 10.3 Mauritius: No. of Maternal death Box 5.5 Action to improve management of marine resources, progress made Figure 10.4 Number of HIV cases and death reported, 1987-2003 Box 5.6 Action to conserve the islets Figure 11.1 Mauritius EPZ businesses, 1993-2003 Box 5.7 Action to create a Conservation Zone at Virginia Figure 11.2 Growth rate (%) for employment in the EPZ sector, 1993-2003 Box 5.8 Functions of the ICZM Division Figure 12.1 Mauritius: Growth in Registered vehicles 1993-2003 Box 5.9 Objectives of ICZM Committee Figure 12.2 Mauritius:The vehicle Fleet 2003 Box 6.1 Resilience in tourism facts under pressure from global threats (2003/4) Figure 12.3 Mauritius: Road Accident 1993-2003 Box 6.2 Tourism vision for 2020 Figure 13.1 Mauritius: in the regional and global context Box 6.3 Tourism development Plan Figure 14.1 Mauritius: Education-Literacy and Enrolment Box 6.4 Sustainable development for a tourist resort Figure 18.1 SIDS and the GDP per capita at Purchasing Power Parity Box 6.5 Trou D’eau Douce Community Action Plan, enhancing natural resources for tourism List of Tables Box 6.6 Tourism Environment Charter Box 6.7 Chamarel Integrated Development Project Box 7.1 Water resources Table 4.1 The medicinal value of plant resources in Mauritius Box 7.2 Progress in water management Table 5.1 Information on the coastal zone of Mauritius Box 7.3 Sources of contamination of water resources Table 7.1 Water Utilization Box 8.1 Progress with renewable energy resources Table 7.2 Distribution of drinking water Box 8.2 Bagasse Energy Development Plan Table 7.3 Harness water resources in a sustainable manner Box 9.1 Studies on waste management carried out from 1989-2003 Table 18.1 Enhancing resilience Box 9.2 National Solid Waste Management Strategy 7 6 Table 18.2 Greening Mauritius

MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Box 9.3 Institutional and legal framework Map 1 : Map of Mauritius Box 9.4 Waste management system Box 9.5 Waste recycling and treatment Box 9.6 Hazardous waste management Box 9.7 National sanitary landfill, Mare Chicose Box 10.1 Clinical services delivery Box 10.2 Health sector targets Box 10.3 Partnership to contain HIV/AIDS Box 10.4 Legislation Box 10.5 High Technology Services Box 11.1 Challenges in the textile and clothing sector Box 12.1 The Integrated Transport Sector Strategy Box 12.2 Light Rail Transit Box 13.1 ICT Law and Institutional Reform Box 14.1 Key facilities in progress of education Box 14.2 Reform of the scope and content of education Box 14.3 Further developments for education Box 15.1 Training and skills development responding to the market Box 16.1 Cutting the size of the state Box 16.2 Reform within the stat Box 17.1 Rodrigues and the outer islands Box 18.1 Achieving greater transparency in public life, the reality Box 18.2 MDG Goals and Targets already achieved in Mauritius Box 18.3 Targets achievable by 2015 in Mauritius Box 18.4 Mauritius moving towards target Box 18.5 Mauritius moving away from target

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MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Map 2 : Indian Ocean Area Tv~ÇÉãÄxwzxÅxÇàá

The Ministry of Environment and National Development Unit (NDU) would like to express its appreciation to all Ministries and Organisations which have contributed to the preparation of this report

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MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE YÉÜxãÉÜw

he Government of Mauritius is pleased to enable Mauritius to meet the challenges increased pauperisation. Tto publish this report on the occasion ahead. The situation in Rodrigues and the of the International Meeting on the Outer Islands have also been addressed in The International Meeting on Sustainable comprehensive review of the BARBADOS this report. Development of Small Island Developing PROGRAMME OF ACTION for the States to be held in Mauritius provides a sustainable development of Small Island The document highlights in particular the timely opportunity for the international Developing States (SIDS) to be held in sustained efforts made by Mauritius to build community to rededicate themselves to the Mauritius in January 2005. resilience to adapt to unfavourable national, cause of the sustainable development of regional and international conjectures as well these States and to establish a new agenda This report maps out the road travelled by as to the effects of climatic changes including with full support for the effective Mauritius in the quest for sustainable cyclones, seasonal droughts and coastal implementation of its outcome. development and highlights the efforts made, erosion. These challenges have called for The Honourable Paul Raymond Bérenger, GCSK, the resources deployed and the constraints innovative approaches and this report gives Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius met. It gives an excellent overview of the us an indication of the strategies and actions various initiatives taken and being taken to enhance our resilience in the face of implemented, including by the private sector, these natural calamities. within the ambit of a holistic approach to meet the goals of Sustainable Development. Overall, it is to be noted that 2004 has not Hon. Paul Raymond Bérenger, been favourable to Small Islands Developing Prime Minister The report addresses all the major issues States, many of whom have been struck by of the Republic of Mauritius contained in the Barbados Programme of cyclones of extreme violence. The Small Action as well as new and emerging issues Island Developing States of the African, which are very pertinent to Mauritius. On Pacific and Caribbean group have also been account of the changing international traumatized by the proposed 37% reduction economic order and the rapid permutations in the price of sugar under the ACP/EU Sugar affecting global trade and commerce, major Protocol. There is no doubt that this reforms in a number of critical sectors proposed reduction will adversely affect including education and training, agriculture their economies and result in job losses and 12 13 and the financial sector are being undertaken MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE cÜxytvx

he International Meeting on the holistic manner economic, social and already pointed out in the BPoA itself and Tcomprehensive review of the environmental considerations. The main confirmed in the Johannesburg Plan of BARBADOS PROGRAMME OF ACTION theme running through the Report is Implementation. for the sustainable development of Small Resilience. Island Developing States to be held in As so aptly pointed out by the United Mauritius from 10 to 14 January 2005 is There is no doubt that some remarkable Nations Secretary General, “Brighter being organised following a resolution of the progress has been achieved by SIDS during horizons for Small Islands can mean brighter UN General Assembly as a result of a call the last decade in many spheres, but at the horizons for the World”. The International from the Johannesburg World Summit on same time, it must be conceded that there Meeting will therefore be a unique forum to Sustainable Development in 2002. It will has also been a worsening of the situation in renew, at the highest political level, the undertake a full and comprehensive review many others. The regional and inter-regional commitments to honour promises already of the implementation of the Barbados preparatory meetings of SIDS have identified made at Rio, Barbados and Johannesburg. It The Honourable Rajesh Anand Bhagwan, Minister of Programme of Action (BPoA) for the those achievements as well as the constraints will thus be, not just another international Environment & National Development Unit Sustainable Development of SIDS adopted at and the failures. There are also the new and meeting but a meeting of hope for all SIDS the Global Conference on the Sustainable emerging issues which have a significant and for the whole World. Development of SIDS in 1994. influence on the sustainable development of SIDS and which cannot therefore be ignored As an essential preparatory exercise for the in the further implementation of the BPoA. International Meeting, Mauritius, like all SIDS, has itself undertaken a review of its Having undertaken the assessment review implementation of the BPoA and has process, we are now in a position to submit Hon. Rajesh Anand Bhagwan, produced this Assessment Report. It concrete, practical and pragmatic proposals Minister of Environment & National highlights the successes and failures, the for consideration by the International Development Unit achievements and lessons learnt, the Meeting. This will naturally involve the active constraints and contributory factors, the participation of the whole international challenges and opportunities, and the vision community and institutions. Indeed, without of the future. Our policies, programmes and international cooperation, SIDS will not be projects are guided by national strategies in able to successfully implement the BPoA, as 14 15 practically all major areas and link in a MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE List of abbreviations and acronyms

ACP African Caribbean Pacific EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone ACT African Computing and Telecommunications Summit EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line EIP Environmental Investment Programme AEWA African Eurasian Waterbird Agreement EPA Environment Protection Act AGOA Africa Growth and Opportunity Act EPZ Export Processing Zone AHRIM Association des Hôteliers et Restaurateurs de L’Ile Maurice EU European Union AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome FDI Foreign Direct Investment ARDA Association Reunionaise de Développement de L’Aquaculture GDP Gross Domestic Product BADEA Banque Arab de Dévelopment Économic en Afrique:ABEDA - Arab Bank GEF Global Environment Facility for Economic Development in Africa GHG Greenhouse Gas BEDP Bagasse Energy Development Programme GII Global Information Infrastructure BOI Board of Investment GINS Government Intranet Systems BOO Build-Own-Operate GMO Genetically Modified Organisms BPML Business Parks of Mauritius Limited GNP Gross National Product BPO Business Process Outsourcing GOC Government Online Centre BPoA Barbados Programme of Action GRR Gross Reproduction Rate B-T Build-transfer GWh Gigawatt hour CAPAM Commonwealth Association for Public Administration and Management ha Hectare CAS Computerized Attendance System HDI Human Development Index CBD Convention on Biological Diversity HDPE High Density Poly Ethylene CEB Central Electricity Board HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus CFC Chlorofluorocarbons HSC Higher School Certificate CFL Compact Fluorescent Lamp HWM High Water Mark CIB Central Informatics Bureau ICAC Independent Commission Against Corruption CISD Central Information Systems Division ICAO International Civil Aviation Organisation CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species ICBP International Council for Bird Conservation CMA Conservation Management Areas ICT Information and Communication Technology CNS/ATM Communication and Surveillance / Air Traffic Management ICTA Information and Communications Technologies Authority COMESA Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa ICZM Integrated Coastal Zone Management CRHCS Commonwealth Regional Health Community Secretariat IM International Meeting CSO Central Statistical Office INTSS Integrated National Transport Sector Strategy CWA Central Water Authority IOC Indian Ocean Commission DAI Digital Access Index IOC Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission DBM Development Bank of Mauritius IO-GOOS Indian Ocean Global Ocean Observation System DEOL Distance Education and Open Learning IOR-ARC Indian Ocean Rim – Association for Regional Cooperation DoE Department of Environment IPPs Independent Power Producers EDI Electronic Data Interchange ISO International Standard Organisation 16 17

MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE IT Information Technology NCG National Coast Guard ITES Information Technology Enabled Services NDU National Development Unit ITU International Telecommunications Union NEAP National Environmental Action Plan IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources NEF National Environment Fund IVTB Industrial and Vocational Training Board NEPAD New Partnership for Africa’s Development KWh Kilowatt hour NGO Non-Governmental Organisation LDCs Least Developed Countries NITSP National IT Strategic Plan LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas NOSCP National Oil Spill Contingency Plan LRT Light Rail Transit NPCC National Productivity and Competitiveness Council MA Masters in Administration NPCS National Parks and Conservation Services MCA Mauritius College of the Air NPDP National Physical Development Plan MCML Multi Carrier Mauritius Limited NQF National Qualifications Framework MCSA & RA Ministry of Civil Service Affairs and Administrative Reforms NSMP National Sewerage Master Plan MDGs Millennium Development Goals NSWMP National Solid Waste Management Plan MEF Mauritius Employers’ Federation NTA National Transport Authority MFA Multi-Fibre Arrangement NTP National Telecommunications Policy MIE Mauritius Institute of Education OECD Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development MITIA Mauritius IT Industry Association OLIM Open Learning Institute of Mauritius MITT Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications OTEC Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion MOBAA Mauritius Offshore Business Activities Authority PC Personal Computer MOHQL Ministry of Health and Quality of Life PC Productivity Committee MOI Mauritius Oceanography Institute PER Preliminary Environmental Report MPA Mauritius Ports Authority PET Polyethylene Terephthalate MPA Marine Protected Area PGR Plant Genetic Resources MPL Mauritius Posts Limited PKI Public Key Infrastructure MQA Mauritius Qualifications Authority PMO Prime Minister’s Office MQI Mauritian Quality Institute PV Photo Voltaic MRC Mauritius Research Council R & D Research & Development MSB Mauritius Standards Bureau RSA Revenue Sharing Arrangements MSIRI Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute SADC Southern African Development Community MSTQ Metrology, standards, testing and quality SAFE South Africa Far East MT Mauritius Telecom SAMU Service Aide Medicale Urgence MTSDP Ministry of Training, Skills Development and Productivity SARS Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome MUR Mauritian Rupee SC School Certificate MWF Mauritius Wildlife Foundation SCP Sustainable Production and Consumption Patterns MWh Megawatt hour SIDS Small Island Developing States NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan SIL State Informatics Limited NCB National Computer Board SIT State Investment Trust NCC National Climate Committee SITP School Information and Communications Technology Project 18 NCD Non Communicable Diseases SME Small and Medium Enterprise 19

MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE `tâÜ|à|âá tà t zÄtÇvx SMIDO Small and Medium Industries Development Organisation SSR Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Sub- Upper- STAM Societé de Traitement et d’Assainissement des Mascareignes Ltée. POVERTY and SOCIAL Mauritius Saharan middle STC State Trading Corporation Africa income TACTechnical Advisory Committee 2003 TB Tuberculosis TDP Technology Development Project Population, mid-year (millions) 1.2 703 335 TE Teacher Education GNI per capita (Atlas method, US$) 4,090 490 5,340 GNI (Atlas method, US$ billions) 5.0 347 1,788 UN United Nations UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development Average annual growth, 1997-03 UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea Population (%) 1.1 2.3 1.2 UNCTAD United Nations Commission for Trade and Development Labor force (%) 1.4 2.4 1.8 UNDP United National Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environment Programme Most recent estimate (latest year available, 1997-03) UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Poverty (% of population below national poverty line) ------UNFPA United Nations Fund for Population Activities Urban population (% of total population) 43 36 76 Life expectancy at birth (years) 73 46 73 UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund Infant mortality (per 1,000 live births) 17 103 19 UoM University of Mauritius Child malnutrition (% of children under 5) ------US United States Access to an improved water source (% of population) 100 58 89 Illiteracy (% of population age 15+) 16 35 9 UT Universal Time Gross primary enrollment (% of school-age population) 106 87 104 UTM University of Technology, Mauritius Male 106 94 104 VMS Vessel Monitoring System Female 106 80 104 VRS Voluntary Retirement Scheme WHO World Health Organisation WMA Wastewater Management Authority WRU Water Resources Unit WTO World Trade Organisation

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MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE STRUCTURE of the ECONOMY 1983 1993 2002 2003

KEY ECONOMIC RATIOS and LONG-TERM TRENDS (% of GDP) 1983 1993 2002 2003 Agriculture 15.5 11.2 7.0 6.1 Industry 24.9 33.0 31.1 30.6 GDP (US$ billions) 1.1 3.3 4.5 5.2 Manufacturing 16.3 23.5 22.9 22.0 Gross domestic investment/GDP 17.6 30.0 21.4 22.9 Services 59.6 55.8 61.9 63.3 Exports of goods and services/GDP 46.5 58.7 60.7 59.7 Gross domestic savings/GDP 16.1 25.2 25.2 25.3 Private consumption 69.5 62.1 62.0 61.7 Gross national savings/GDP 14.9 28.5 26.5 26.8 General government consumption 14.4 12.7 12.8 13.0 Current account balance/GDP -5.0 -1.3 5.2 2.7 Imports of goods and services 48.0 63.5 56.9 57.3 Interest payments/GDP 2.8 1.4 0.8 0.7 Total debt/GDP 51.6 31.1 38.9 35.4 1983-93 1993-03 2002 2003 Total debt service/exports 21.3 7.4 7.0 6.5 (average annual growth) Agriculture 1.0 0.4 6.6 -12.2 1983-93 1993-03 2002 2003 2003-07 Industry 9.9 5.2 2.9 1.1 (average annual growth) Manufacturing 10.0 4.9 2.3 -1.1 GDP 6.6 5.1 4.4 3.2 4.6 Services 6.1 6.1 5.6 6.2 GDP per capita 5.7 4.0 3.3 2.2 3.6 Exports of goods and services 10.6 5.2 9.5 -6.4 3.1 Private consumption 6.8 5.6 3.1 3.2 General government consumption 4.4 4.8 4.5 5.4 Gross domestic investment 13.5 3.2 -3.3 12.5 Imports of goods and services 13.3 4.8 5.2 -3.0

Note: Data are for fiscal year. * The diamonds show four key indicators in the country (in bold) compared with its income-group average. If data are missing, the diamond will be incomplete.

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MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE PRICES and GOVERNMENT FINANCE 1983 1993 2002 2003 EXTERNAL DEBT and 1983 1993 2002 2003 RESOURCE FLOWS Domestic prices (% change) (US$ millions) Consumer prices 7.5 8.9 6.3 5.1 Total debt outstanding and disbursed 572 1,029 1,766 1,847 Implicit GDP deflator 8.5 8.0 5.0 5.6 IBRD 61 150 8390 IDA 20 18 13 12 Government finance (% of GDP, includes current grants) Total debt service 108 156 211 215 Current revenue 22.9 21.2 18.5 20.3 IBRD 9 33 20 19 Current budget balance -3.2 2.8 -1.9 -0.8 IDA 0 1 1 1 Overall surplus/deficit -9.4 -1.9 -6.1 -6.2 Composition of net resource flows TRADE 1983 1993 2002 2003 Official grants 0 -1 -1 -2 Official creditors 23 -6 5 16 (US$ millions) Private creditors -14 17 -49 -27 Total exports (fob) 345 1,343 1,569 1,871 Foreign direct investment 1 -36 48 57 Sugar 212 363 283 267 Portfolio equity 0 0 -19 -21 Manufactures 107 861 1,101 1,240 Total imports (cif) 453 1,670 1,923 2,162 World Bank program Food 127 219 316 345 Commitments 39 18 40 0 Fuel and energy 82 126 184 195 Disbursements 7 12 45 0 Capital goods 45 378 456 512 Principal repayments 4 22 17 18 Net flows 3 -9 28 -18 Export price index (1995=100) .. 93 84 88 Interest payments 5 12 4 2 Import price index (1995=100) .. 95 89 93 Net transfers -2 -21 24 -20 Terms of trade (1995=100) .. 98 94 95

BALANCE of PAYMENTS 1983 1993 2002 2003

(US$ millions) Exports of goods and services 474 1,914 2,749 3,065 Imports of goods and services 516 2,068 2,577 3,005 Resource balance -42 -153 172 60

Net income -45 12 5 -2 Net current transfers 31 96 61 81

Current account balance -56 -44 238 139

Financing items (net) 49 -11 5 180 Changes in net reserves 7 56 -243 -319

Memo: Reserves including gold (US$ millions) 39 823 1,018 1,398 Conversion rate (DEC, local/US$) 11.2 16.3 30.1 28.6 24 25

MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Executive summary projected impacts of climate change on its financial services and more recently a coastal and marine resources, present major burgeoning ICT capacity. From 1970, the The Challenges for SIDS risks to its continued prosperity. Confronted economy has grown by an average of more with these threats, Mauritius has been than 5% a year. Recent progress with steadily establishing its defences and building achievement of the MDGs has been steady. accepted formally in UNCED in 1992, the Background resilience. The review shows that Mauritius But concern remains for the increasing trend Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA) in has made more progress with designing in HIV/AIDS and the lack of progress in key 1994, and at the WSSD in 2002. One of the n 1994, the Global Conference on the policies and plans but has more to do on areas of environmental improvement such as sustainable development of Small island recommendations of the Johannesburg Plan implementation. The process requires new forest cover and reduction of CO2 of Implementation was that “a full and IDeveloping States (SIDS) adopted the levels of commitment throughout the emissions. comprehensive review of the implementation Program of Action for the sustainable society. It is also technically complex.Time is of the BPoA for the Sustainable development development of small island states. The required for laws to be devised, scientific National Strategy of Small Island Developing States takes place Declaration of Barbados affirms that SIDS assessment to be made and detailed pilot in 2004, in accordance with the provisions are particularly vulnerable to natural and studies, across a wide range of problems to Over the past two decades, the economic set forth in General Assembly resolution S- environmental disasters and have limited bear fruit before investment in national structure of Mauritius has been transformed 22/2”. capacity to respond to and recover from programmes can be justified. from one based almost exclusively on sugar such disasters. production for export to a broadly based Mauritius is hosting the International Meeting The Republic of Mauritius consists of a main industrial and serviced oriented economy. (IM) in January 2005 to seek a renewed Many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), island, Mauritius, and a group of smaller Industry, in particular, clothing and textile political commitment by all countries for the consist of not one but a number of small islands and islets that make up to a total land manufacture, no longer forms the corner further implementation of the Programme of islands. This fragmentation increases their area of 2040 km2. The Exclusive Economic stone of the economy, while rapid growth of Action, thereby endorsing its validity. The vulnerability which principally arises from Zone(EEZ) is a marine area of approximately tourism and financial services sectors during review of the BPoA has provided SIDS with their isolation, their small size, small 1.9 million km2 which is nearly a thousand the past decades have helped to consolidate an opportunity to set out the challenges that population, ecological fragility, topography, times the size of the land area itself. The the country’s economy. they face, the progress made and the way narrow resource base, limited local capital marine area has been largely unexploited ahead. This report provides a frank account for productive investment, and excessive except for the lagoon which has suffered Furthermore, Government is now giving high of the Mauritius experience as a means of dependence on imports. As island societies severely from unsustainable fishing and land priority to the development of the promoting discussion and exchange of ideas. develop, raising living standards for growing based pollution. One of the major concerns Information and Communication Technology numbers of people, so they are prone to of land use planning in the country is to build (ICT) sector, to transform the country into a Building Resilience deplete the fragile natural resources which on rather than to deplete the richness of the cyber island. Indeed, the country has are among their most valuable assets. natural resources, resolving conflicts and successfully sustained its economic growth Mauritius has developed rapidly at reconciling present pressures with future with gross national product per capita considerable cost to the quality of its natural Policy Development needs. estimated at US Dollar 3, 900 in 2003. resources. It has found ways to adjust to many external economic and environmental During the past ten years, there has been an Mauritius has diversified from a mono crop shocks. But the imminent major changes in increasing awareness of these problems economy dependent on sugar cane by global markets for sugar and textiles and the 26 common to island nations They were developing a textile industry, tourism, 27

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Security partners are involved in the environment More remains to be done for better monitoring of global warming and preparing sector (France, Germany, and UK, European adaptation to climate change and sea level measures to adapt to its consequences is a As a remote island with a large EEZ, Investment Bank.) China and India fund rise, including comprehensive beach priority. Mauritius is at risk from external threats projects in the transport, agriculture and protection, withdrawal of facilities from such as money laundering, transnational health sectors and the Cyber City. The exposed locations and the implementation of Mauritius is on a main sea route and its only organized crimes and illegal trade in wildlife. UNDP has a program aimed at poverty integrated coastline management schemes. harbour in Port Louis assumed growing It could be an easy target for terrorists or a alleviation. Further adaptation will be necessary for international importance in terms of trade. safe haven for terrorist funds. Government is protection of agriculture, including more The airport now has services to 26 countries aware of this threat and is well prepared to Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise green areas to absorb carbon dioxide. in four continents Precautionary measures confront with any emergency situation. Fisheries are to be adapted to support the and response to the risks of oil spills, fires, Geographical and topographical development of Mauritius as a regional sea explosions, wrecks, air plane crashes and Institutional Reform characteristics of small island states limit food hub making the country more resilient other security aspects, are the subject to their capacity to mitigate and adapt to future to local losses of habitat and making better detailed planning and emergency exercises. Progress with the BPoA depends greatly on climate change and sea level rise. Such use of the large EEZ. SIDS partnerships in The increasing number of high rise buildings establishing new statutory duties and powers pressures in Mauritius already affect beach these activities are already an important part present new challenges for safety and fire- within a new institutional framework of tourism, strategic infrastructure including in sustaining social and technical progress. fighting. A National Disaster Committee public participation and ultimately the hotels and restaurants, roads, power lines, coordinates preparedness and response in enforcement of law. But promoting social and water systems, sanitation and bridges, the event of any natural or environmental economic change and even passing vital especially during cyclones and sea surges. Natural and Environmental Disasters disaster. legislation requires commitment and time. In Mauritius, the Environment Protection Act, The National Climate Action Plan defines the Mauritius is situated in the western Indian Land Resources 2002 has enhanced the coordinating role of system to monitor the progress of global Ocean tropical cyclone belt and is therefore the MoE and established the National warming and to prepare for measures for under the threat of tropical depressions Land degradation, increasing urbanisation and Network for Sustainable Development, a adaptation in line with the UNFCCC and the which can build up into violent storms competition for land, are the principal high powered consultative body of the public Kyoto Protocol. The Mauritius accompanied by heavy winds and rain with concerns that are being addressed. Major and private sectors and civil society. This Meteorological Service has highlighted the flooding of low lying areas. These cause progress has been made in wider ownership promotes the involvement of the whole of need for further investigation, research and physical damage to buildings, crops and of land and in the provision of housing for all the country in the pursuit of sustainable analysis as well as technical training and livestock, especially in the more exposed people. Over 85% of families live in homes development. transfer of environmentally friendly parts of the country. Mauritius is well which they own and which are technologies from developed countries to protected by an increasingly effective early predominantly robust and proof against Relationship with development partners implement the UNFCCC. Training is being warning and protective response system and cyclones. All homes are serviced by mains developed in specific fields such as photovoltaic by the robustness of the modern buildings water and electricity. As Mauritius has progressed, it has over the technology and predictive computer modelling constructed in stone blocks and concrete. years experience a significant decline in as well as in beach and lagoon protection. New But, global climate change can generate more The Land and Development Act 2004 Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) guidelines have been prepared and enforcement frequent extreme weather conditions in provides an updated framework for land use from all sources. However a number of has begun on coastal planning and coastal Mauritius and bring about greater damage planning and decision making at national and 28 bilateral and multilateral development precautions against flooding. from more turbulent cyclones. Continued local level.The extension of national parks 29

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE has been a feature of development.The built zone has vastly extended the fisheries and major earner of foreign exchange. The charges and reducing pollution of water up areas in towns and along roadsides are other marine resources available. Its effective majority of tourists come from Europe sources. being landscaped with trees and shrubs that management is, however,a large and complex (about 66% of arrivals in 2002) and provide shade and a greener environment task demanding new forms of collaboration particularly France, followed by Réunion Energy Resources towards a future garden island. A new between the public and the private sectors as Island and South Asia. awareness is emerging for the value of well as regional cooperaton. It includes Mauritius has stable electricity supply architectural style, removing eyesores and building up industrial fishing skills and The Government’s policy has been to through a national grid system but with no promoting a built environment that is in equipment, controlling fish stocks and emphasise low-impact, high spending tourism scope for inter-country back-up. Keeping harmony with the natural environment of the exercising surveillance against illegal local and so as to maintain the island’s up-market pace with an expanding demand from all country. But much more needs to be done in foreign fishing companies. But experience in profile. sectors is a major challenge. Renewable terms of good planning and urbanisation. this is growing. energy sources contribute 23% of total Tourism depends on quality in the natural production. Review is to be made of the Biodiversity Resources Major initiatives to protect the coastal zone environment. It makes heavy demands on potential for harnessing sea wave energy have been undertaken as part of integrated energy, water and coastal facilities. National Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). Mauritius is high on the world’s list of coastal zone management (ICZM), including guidelines are being developed to regulate More use could be made of solar energy by countries for plant and bird species the banning of sand mining, the development leisure craft, water sports, water use and incorporating such requirements in planning threatened with extinction. In fact some 900 of methods for beach nourishment, a national sanitation. Fortunately, the sector has guidelines and EIA assessments. The cost of species of indigenous plants occur in sewerage programme and daily beach responded positively to the demand the environmental impact of fossil fuels Mauiritius. Out of which 300 are endemic cleaning. complying with its environmental charter of should be used in future economic and a further 100 or more are shared with guidance for visitors. Future plans include evaluations of energy options. other islands of the Mascarenes, Réunion and Further action is needed to increase training promoting more eco-tourism and activities Rodrigues.A high proportion of native plants of professional and technical specialists and with a low impact on the environment. Transport is one of the heaviest producers of are threatened or endangered mainly due to field workers and to improve quality Training for the hotel and restaurant trades carbon dioxide emissions. With rising introduced exotic plants which are out standards and surveillance. Closer attention has been long established in Mauritius. numbers of vehicles and increasing road competing them in their natural habitat. Over is being given to the many small uninhabited congestion pollution is becoming a growing the last decade there has been growing islets, popular with fishermen and tourists, Freshwater Management problem, partially off-set by the introduction awareness for the conservation of the whose quality has been depleted through of lead-free petrol and effective compulsory indigenous flora of Mauritius and uncontrolled waste and alien trees and Despite shortage of water for the growing testing of older vehicles. Resolving road tremendous progress has been achieved in shrubs and animals such as rats. population, safe water and sanitation for all congestion is a high priority for future urban this field. has been a principal feature of development planning. Technical support is needed to Tourism in Mauritius. Future plans include improving extend energy audit in the public and private Coastal and Marine Resources integrated management to ensure better sectors and to promote design of buildings Mauritius is a well established high class supply and more effective use of water, with low energy-use. Mauritius has a rich but vulnerable coastal tourist resort. Tourism is the third pillar of especially in agriculture and in industry, the and marine biodiversity including coral reefs, the Mauritian economy and accounted for heaviest users. Steps have been made in mangroves and wetlands. The establishment about 6% of the GDP in 2002. It is also an recent years to increase supply, reduce water 30 of the 200-mile exclusive economic marine important source of employment and a cuts, improved water quality, metre based 31

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Management of Wastes Health Trade and Investment rules of the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures are major The steady economic and social Mauritius provides free state health services From a mono crop economy, predominantly challenges. development of the country has increased throughout the country to all its people.The dependent on sugar, Mauritius has diversified The country has taken a number of bold the level of consumption and production of general state of health of the population of its economic activities by developing a textile measures to build up resilience. These waste. The provision of a national purpose Mauritius is good and is improving steadily industry, tourism, financial services and include increasing its export capacity, built landfill waste disposal centre, with with the implementation of a series of ICTsector. The strong growth in the improving productivity in textiles and in peripheral transit facilities, has eased the reforms aiming at providing better health to economy measured in traditional terms has container cargo handling, providing incentives problem and reduced the pollution from the all. From 1970 to date, life expentancy has been offset by increasing use of fossil fuels, for inward investment and for the local increased from 63 years to 72 years and previous uncontrolled waste dumps. The increasing emissions of CO2 and serious loss production of many high volume household continued increase in waste, however, will infant mortality fallen from 55 to 14 deaths of forest and woodland cover and consumer goods for local consumption. exceed the capacity of the landfill earlier than in the first year of life for every 1000 live biodiversity. National accounts have not Encouragement is also being given to the was anticipated. births. Another component of Government included economic estimates of this loss of formation of internationally competitive reform agenda is the improvement of health natural capital. Environmental accounting is SMEs. ICT is a priority field for development Mauritius has now a Solid Wastes facilities to the rapidly aeging population and an underdeveloped aspect of national trade in all industries. Mauritius is positioning itself Management Strategy and future plans growing number of non-communicable statistics. to become a hub for trade and industrial diseases. include the development of separation of development in the region. wastes, composting, re-cycling, reduction of Sustaining economic growth and reconciling Promoting a healthier way of life in Mauritius waste at source and the possible use of it with the requirements of a high quality Transport and Communication involves programmes directed at both the waste for energy production. Public environment has become an emerging production of healthier goods and services awareness programmes and education have priority as the impact of development on the Mauritius has overcome its problems of and changes in consumption and lifestyle. reduced the extent of litter.The nation-wide ecology has become more evident.. Making isolation by expanding its sea and air links. Fiscal policy has a role in this field regulating provision of waste collection and the free the shift to an integrated strategy is not easy. The sea port at Port Louis is now fully the price of tobacco and alcohol and distribution of standard waste-bins have Conflicting interests have to be resolved. adapted to container systems and the airlines promoting a healthier diet including more proved popular and effective in reducing using the national airport provide regular fresh fruit and vegetables. litter around commercial and residential Small size and insularity combine to make direct services to 26 countries in four property. Legislation provides for licensing island economies highly dependent on continents. This has increased its capacity The health services in Mauritius depend on a waste collection services, penalties for external markets for imports. Agricultural for, as well as, provides a boost for its close partnership between the public and littering and dumping. Enforcement has and manufacturing activities are based on a tourism industry. Better links abroad has also private sectors and joint collaboration with very narrow range of goods intended mainly been a vital aspect of professional and become more effective through the NGOs. Family planning, joint use of high for export for revenue generation. Small technical development. The process of introduction of environmental police. technology services and tackling the small Outstanding problems arise with disposal of but growing problem of HIV/AIDS have been economies have little influence over global developing the sea and airport services motor vehicles and spare parts, engines, examples of such collaboration. Plans for the markets, nor do they have a buffer against the however increases the pressure on the batteries, fridges, washing machines and introduction of a family doctor service recognize effect of fluctuations in the price of key fragile ecology. This will become a more computer components, all currently sent to the importance of strengthening primary care exports such as sugar and textiles, neither on sensitive issue as access is opened up to the the national landfill site. and the growing need for community services the price of imports such as energy and food. smaller islands of the country. 32 for disabled and elderly people. The erosion of trade preferences and the 33

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The steady rise in internal road transport has agenda arising from what is being seen as a Training and Skills Development Reform of the State become a major problem with its impact on new pillar of the future economy and social land use, traffic congestion, air pollution and life of the country. Training is one of the principal tools for One of the essential priorities to consider in injury. A strategy is being developed to development. Mauritius now has a variety of pursuing sustainable development is a respond to the heavy environmental, Education vocational courses to meet the needs of strengthening of national institutions and commercial and social costs of road traffic. business, industry, commerce and the public administrative capacities. This need is clearly The Education system has been reformed services. These facilities are accessible to spelt out in the Programme of Action for the Information and Communication recently with the abolition of the Certificate other islands in the region and having limited sustainable development of SIDS. Mauritius, technologies of Primary Education (CPE) ranking and its capacities in this field.Training for new career in spite of its limited means, has addressed all replacement by the grading system which has pathways for adults, ICT training, and re- the above issue remarkably well. Mauritius has invested heavily in ICT and is eliminated in some way the excessive skilling are new ways for responding to major considered to be ahead of most other upper competition engendered by the ranking change in the economy. Fresh emphasis is Rodrigues and Outer Islands middle income countries in terms of the system.The merit of this reform aims at being put on remedial training for early network of mainline telephones, the use of school leavers, new businesses and other The Government has been decentralized for mobile phones and the links of business, ● Providing an appropriate assessment public services. Public-private partnership is Rodrigues, the largest of the smaller islands schools and families to the internet. But still, mechanism, at the heart of the process and a computer in Mauritius. It now has its own elected it has far to go to reach the levels common ● Introducing of the universal eleven years of based labour market information system assembly and parliamentary procedure. It is in the more developed countries of the compulsory education, helps both applicants and employers. still in the process of setting its own world. Progress has been stimulated by the ● Increasing access to quality education, strategies for development and management incentives offered to ICT firms to set up ● upgrading of school curriculum with Improvement in productivity come both of its domestic policies. It is gradually opening business. It has benefited also from quality special focus on Information and from market pressures and from national up to eco-tourism and future plans include technical support services including a Communication Technology (ICT) as a programmes on quality management, on direct international flights, extension of submarine fibre optic cable link to South subject in primary schools in order to efficiency at work, ISO programmes, the industrial fishing and strengthening its social Africa, giving Mauritius access to the Global make pupils computer literate at an early work of the Mauritian Quality Institute and services, business and commercial base. Information Infrastructure.The aim is to have age, and the National Productivity and a PC in every school and every home. This ● Increasing access to and enhance quality of Competitiveness Council.These multi-sector The Way Ahead national programme is supported through a tertiary education. partnerships build on the best ideas from the bold national ICT venture, ‘The Cyber City,’ best companies and best practice world- Much of the past sustained progress in which has strong international financial and The knowledge-based economy wide. They aim to re-mould local enterprise Mauritius has been built around basic technical backing. commissioned by Government will require a and get quality products and services at the education, improved health, the benefit of critical mass of professionals at all times to right price and the right time. The process is bilateral and multilateral trading agreements, The environmental impact of the surge into support key economic sectors in this fast transforming management, customer the driving force of skilled entrepreneurs ICT is evident across the country in stabilized era.The educational reforms which satisfaction and promoting a greater pride in with capital to invest, stable democratic overhead power and telephone cables, Government has embarked upon also makes working well. government and peace. Times are changing mobile phone relay structures in every town, provision that new entrance into the labour and so are policies and plans. Globalisation satellite dishes and the growing problem of market possess the skills, knowledge and demands faster adaptation. The country is 34 computer waste. This is part of the new expertise that employers require. building new trading partnerships. It is 35

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE planning better and faster supply links The report shows that much progress in abroad, and within the country. Skills are Mauritius has been made since the BPoA in being updated. Jobs are no longer for life. reforming policy and creating a new New skills have to be more rapidly acquired. framework of law and institutions to take New products and services have to be forward fundamental changes. Mauritius provided to meet tomorrow’s even tougher participates in many regional and standards in the international market and the international organisations and is a member growing aspirations of the local people for a of a number of regional grouping including better way of life. No longer can Mauritius the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), SADC, compete by using its spare capacity of semi- COMESA and the Indian Ocean RIM skilled labour. Neither can it survive by Association (IOC-ARC). In addition, it has continually depleting its natural resources. adhered to the Economic Partnerships Agreement (EPA) for the purpose of As a Small Island Developing State, Mauritius increased trade and revenue generation. It recognises the dominating factor that the sees all such regional cooperation and way ahead requires an educational system integration initiative as a powerful based on problem solving and project development strategy, to allow the countries learning. Quality and productivity must be to expand its economic space. increasingly at the heart of every enterprise both in the private and the public sector. Human capital and the natural quality of the country are the ultimate resources.

Introduction

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Mauritian economy has done remarkably Since the Global conference, Mauritius has Introduction well over the past three decades. Since taken important initiatives to strengthen independence in 1968, it has experienced national institutions and administrative ince UNCED in 1992, SIDS, and islands progress now constitute threats to its future significant transformation from an economy capacity covering environment policy, land supporting small communities, have prosperity. Its development has seriously that was almost entirely dependent on sugar use, legislation, education, transport and Sbeen considered “a special case both depleted the natural environmental cane cultivation and manufacturing to one biodiversity. For example, in Mauritius a for environment and development".The first resources on which its future depends. This that has benefited from an export led National Environmental Commission was set Global Conference on Sustainable review presents the challenges that the strategy. Industry, in particular, clothing and up chaired by the Prime Minister, with a Development of SIDS in 1994, adopted the country has addressed the progress that it textile manufacture, constituted a broad membership including Ministries Barbados Programme of Action (BPoA) This has made and the way ahead on the pathway cornerstone of the economy until recently. responsible for economic planning, finance, has been an important blueprint for the for sustainable development. education, science, technology, natural sustainable development of SIDS recognising, The sugar sector has long benefited from resources, tourism, industry, health and the uniqueness of small islands, their Mauritius is one of the Mascarene group of guaranteed prices and preferential access justice. A key mandate of the commission is vulnerability and specificity. islands comprising of Mauritius, Rodrigues into European markets under the Sugar to ensure coordination and cooperation and Reunion; the latter being a French Protocol, the Lome Convention and the between public departments, local The World Summit on Sustainable Overseas Department (See Map 1-2). Cotonu Agreement. However, with the authorities and other governmental Development in 2002 further reasserted the Mauritius is a tropical island located at phase-out of the protocol, Mauritius must organizations engaged in environment special challenges of Small Island Developing latitude 20° south and longitude 58° east, now negotiate new agreements under the protection policies. States and the relevance of the “special some 800 km from the south-east of ACP/ EU partnership. needs” of SIDS, was again stressed in the Madagascar.The highest peak is 817 metres. In addition to the above, Mauritius has taken Millennium Development Goals. One of the It was formed through a series of basaltic lava Despite its impressive performance, the a number of measures aiming at interacting recommendations of the Johannesburg Plan flows. Before its discovery and colonization it Mauritian economy, like other SIDS, is environment protection and development. of Implementation was that “a full and was uninhabited. It has many areas of fertile confronted to a number of short and These include: comprehensive review of the implementation land formerly heavily wooded and rich in medium term challenges, in both the internal of the BPoA for the Sustainable endemic species. The main island has no and external fronts. The main challenge of ● Adoption of new legislation to provide a Development of Small Island Developing continental shelf, the ocean depth reaching sustainability facing Mauritius today is to sound and updated legal framework for the pursuit of sustainable development, States takes place in 2004, in accordance with 3000 metres within 20 km of the coastline. adapt to increasingly free trade in the global the provisions set forth in General Assembly The coastline of Mauritius island is almost markets. In the wake of increased global ● Formulation of a National Environmental resolution S-22/2.” completely surrounded by coral reefs, competition from low-wage countries and Strategy (NES) that provides a blue print enclosing a lagoon area of 243 km2. It has limited future opportunities through for sustainable development. All SIDS are characterized by inescapable many sandy beaches, protected bays and calm preferential arrangements, the Mauritian limitations: small domestic markets, isolation, lagoons. These natural resources have economy becomes even more vulnerable.At No country is an island narrow resource base and dependence on allowed for agricultural development, lagoon the same time , the Government is faced with external trade. Mauritius has overcome many fishing and intensive capital development in the rising costs of social obligations, Since the events of 11 September 2001, of these obstacles. But the advantages on tourism. unemployment and environmental pressure security has had to be taken more seriously. which it has built its economic and social from conflicting demand for land use. 38 Resolution 1373 of the United Nations 39

introduction MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Security Council imposes heavy secure their long term future, SIDS working responsibilities on all States to fight against alone will remain vulnerable to external terrorism. Security surveillance of the EEZ is pressures. If they are to survive, they need to a major challenge now as it was in the early use their collective strength for the benefit of days of development where Mauritius their region. This new archipelago of SIDS became a haven for pirates plundering the across the world need not be trapped in merchant ships passing from Asia round the isolation.With a total population of over 50 Cape of Good Hope to Europe. Mauritius million it has trading and negotiating strength has passed new laws on terrorism, increased so far largely untested. This review sets out security in the sea and air ports and the story of one of these states in transition. reinforced the National Coast Guard and The intention is to provide timely evidence Police surveillance within the country to that global thinking can be translated into combat these threats. local action in one of this new world association of small island developing states. Despite their own efforts in taking action to Figure 2 Mauritius: the Epidemiological transition.The pattern of disease has changed; deaths from infections and involving the digestive system have declined; non communicable diseases including heart disease, cancers and injuries have increased.

Figure 1 Mauritius: Demographic transition: Since 1994 the crude death rate, infant mortlity and the crude birth rate have declined; the population has continued to grow but rate of Figure 3 Mauritius: Expectation of life at birth.The very rapid increase in expectation of life increase has declined to about 1% a year. at birth from 33 years in 1944 to over 60 years in 1968, has now changed to a slower but steady increase, reaching 72 years in 2003, with a substantial gap emerging between males and

40 females, the latter living longer. 41

introduction MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Figure 4 The agricultural transition in Mauritius The percent contribution of agriculture to the GDP of Mauritius in the period 1970-2000 came to a peak of thirty percent and has fallen to 6%, whilst in the region of Sub-Saharan Africa in the same period the contribution of Agriculture has remained relatively constant.

42

introduction Climate Change and of climate change and sea level rise and must Sea-Level Rise rely on others to support the provisions of ● 1998: The Meteorological Services of The Challenges the Kyoto Protocol. The continued Mauritius on behalf of the National vulnerability of SIDS depends on the Climate Committee, prepared the commitments, policies and programmes of National Climate Change Action Plan limate change and sea-level rise are ● Rise in temperature will cause variability in industrialised nations. The recent support with the financial assistance of the US issues of major concern for all small rainfall among other impacts and will have for the Kyoto protocol from Russia is a Country Studies program, island developing States. Although severe social and economic consequences, C welcome step in reducing the global threat of SIDS emit only a very small proportion of the irreversible damage to SIDS in all regions. ● The Ministry of the Environment was greenhouse gases that cause global warming, ● Sea Level rise due to global warming will designated the focal point for action to yet, these states are the ones that are the affect freshwater resources due to saline Action in Mauritius on Climate Change is promote and coordinate climate most vulnerable to sea-level rise and intrusion and further erosion of beaches shown in Boxes 1.1 and 1.2 and includes change activities, extremes of climate change. and damage to coral reefs, and institutional, technical and regulatory Because of their small size, the whole of each interventions. Faced with the potential ● 1995: Submission of a national ● Higher sea-level, storm surges and higher small island developing state can be impacts of Climate Change on the economy, inventory of sources and sinks of tides will cause extensive coastal flooding considered as a coastal entity and any Mauritius is developing strategies and policies greenhouse gases, updated each year, and damage to vital coastal infrastructure localised consequences of a rise in sea level to address the problem of climate change on which tourism, transport and would be significant for the whole country. and sea level rise in all related sectors, ● List of programmes to reduce the communications depend such as sea ports, The coastlines provide the natural resources namely energy planning, agriculture, coastal negative impacts of climate change bridges and roads. on which many livelihoods depend. zone management, transportation, fisheries, covering adverse impacts, measures for Coastlines are at the core of much economic forestry, waste management and water abatement and enhancing sinks for and social development in fisheries, tourism, Progress resources. The successful implementation of greenhouse gases, policy options for monitoring systems and for strategies agriculture, transport and communications. the Action Plan will involve a multi-discipline The United Nations Framework for for responding to the impact of climate and multi-sectoral team including the private Climate Change Convention change, and policy frameworks for For Mauritius climate change will have and public sectors. implementing adaptation measures and multiple adverse impacts: Mauritius signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change response strategies, ● Climate change may increase the intensity (UNFCCC) during the UNCED conference Box 1.1 ● 2004: Preparation of a report on of tropical cyclones, at Rio and was the first member state to Policy and planning under the Technology Needs Assessment for ratify it. Mauritius also ratified the Kyoto UNFCCC Climate Change issues, and ● The rise in global temperatures will also Protocol in 2001. Mauritius is reducing its have an effect on seawater temperatures emissions of greenhouse gases by ● 1991: The Prime Minister set up a ● Mauritius is now considering the and ocean circulation, multi-sectoral National Climate implementing a number of projects on preparation of its second national Committee (NCC) actively to involve energy efficiency, alternative energy communication report. ● Changes in ocean circulation will affect programmes and regular inventories of all stakeholders in combating climate migratory paths of pelagic fish, disrupting greenhouse gases. But Mauritius depends on change, the fishing industry, 44 international action to combat the problems 45

C HAPTER 1 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Mauritius contributes a very small level of GHG emissions per head of population, by Box 1.2 Reforestation Programme comparison with other countries (see Figure 1.1).The rate of increase since 1995 has been Detailed Action under the UNFCCC low and for Carbon Monoxide it is declining (see Figure 1.2).The levels of Carbon Dioxide, The Ministry of Agriculture is however, are increasing, the principal contributions being from electricity production using Ozone Depleting Substances implementing a reforestation coal and oil and from transport (Figure 1.3). programme to increase green areas to Since 1992, the Government has taken absorb carbon dioxide. a number of policy decisions aiming at reducing the consumption of CFCs. Agriculture Fluorocarbon emissions have declined by 69%. The MSIRI is actively engaged in research on the impacts of climate Coastal Erosion change on sugar cane cultivation, on varieties of sugar cane tolerant to Since 1995, the Ministry of Environment drought and to salt, and the length of has carried out some 3500 metres of growing season and optimal time for coastal protection works using semi- harvesting. hard structures in the form of gabions and groynes. A number of public beach Energy Efficiency sites have been earmarked as high priority for remedial actions. A pilot Action to improve energy efficiency beach fill project along 600m of the includes energy conservation, switch to public beach of Flic en Flac has already low carbon content fuels, use of started. Plans for replenishment of renewable energy sources, and the other beaches are also being prepared introduction of non-conventional (See Chapter 5). energy technologies.

Protection of Coral Reefs Capacity Building

Monitoring of the coral ecosystem is Mauritius is preparing to implement the being done at selected sites to study UNFCCC on Agriculture, Forestry and the effect of increase in temperature on Land Use and is producing a new coral bleaching. Water samples from national greenhouse gas inventory. The lagoons are also being collected at National Climate Change Committee sensitive points for analysis. and NGOs organise awareness Data on circulation changes in the campaigns regularly to sensitise the lagoons as well as for fish stock population about the impacts of global assessment and sustainable yield warming. depletion are being collected to assess adverse effects and results of remedial 46 action. 47

C HAPTER 1 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE however, have a big impact on coastal the electricity produced. Feasibility studies ecosystems in the Republic of Mauritius and are being made, with technical assistance the ecosystems which will be particularly at from Japan, to develop Ocean Thermal risk include sandy beaches, coral reefs, Energy Conversion (OTEC) technology for mangrove ecosystems and coastal wetlands. harnessing sea wave energy. A scenario has been worked out to project the possible impact of climate change on the Mauritius has taken steps to promote coastal zone. changes in local energy consumption patterns (see Box 1.4).

Box 1.4 Changes in energy consumption to reduce GHGs

To r educe emission of local sources of Introduction of Low Energy Box 1.3 greenhouse gases, Mauritius has a Consumption Bulbs A worst case scenario:A sea-level programme to diversify to renewable rise of 1 metre in Flic en Flac sources of energy to comply with The Ministry of Environment together commitments under the UNFCCC and the with the Ministry of Public Utilities is ● It has been estimated that 26,000m2 of Kyoto Protocol. These measures also Beach erosion can be aggravated by sea level rise promoting the use of compact beaches can be flooded, respond to the need to encourage fluorescent lamp (CFL) in the rural sustainable consumption and production Use of Energy and Greenhouse Gas areas and villages. In line with Type II ● About 12725 m of main coastal road patterns (See Chapter 8, Energy Resources). Emission partnership initiatives, Climate Care, and 24475 m of secondary coast road Some progress is being made. But this has an NGO based in the United Kingdom, would be affected by flooding, not kept pace with the substantial increases Mauritius relies predominantly on imported has offered batches of such lamps for overtopping, cracking of pavement, and in energy consumption arising from the petroleum to meet its energy needs. But coal distribution in villages in Mauritius. eventually submergence, sustained rapid rate of development of the fired boilers, using imported coal from Africa country as a whole. and Europe, are also used because they are Use of Solar Energy and ● Plantations, including several hectares cheap methods of producing energy for Photovoltaic lighting of sugar cane and cash crops would be Impacts of Climate Change in the Coastal Zone industrial purposes. Replacement of coal by a inundated and have to be abandoned, The impacts of climate change and sea-level cleaner fuel would significantly reduce Solar panels have been installed in the and rise on coastal resources in Mauritius have emissions and future EIA assessments will Government Centre on a pilot basis been studied within the framework of take this factor into consideration. for lighting and air conditioning in the ● Houses near the coast would be assistance to Mauritius provided by the US buildings. Photovoltaic lighting is also flooded. Country Studies Program. Sea-level rise will Renewable sources of energy such as hydro, 48 Sources : Climate Change Action Plan, 1997 solar, wind and bagasse account for 23% of 49

C HAPTER 1 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The Way Ahead used on a pilot scale for street lighting in some places in Mauritius, Rodrigues The Government of Mauritius is taking and Agalega.The units can be installed action for adaptation to the impact of climate 1. Climate Change and Sea Level Rise anywhere easily as they need not be change and to evaluate the results because it A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet close to the CEB grid; hence, remote fears that the impacts could harm the un-electrified area may be provided country and the prospects of development Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead with street lighting. for many generations. It cannot succeed ● ● Implementation o ● Preparation of National Climate Training and improvement of skills of alone. The vulnerability of SIDS to these UNFCCC and Change Action Plan technical staff. ● Annual submission of national Introduction of Unleaded Petrol Kyoto Protocol. ● Strengthening capacity for proper risks and the related impact thereof is made inventory of sources and sinks of more serious by the fragile ecology of the Greenhouse Gases coordination and preparation of ● Reduction of Greenhouse Gas national assessment communications. Unleaded petrol has been introduced islands, their low adaptive capacity and the emissions through the since September 2002 for cars. This need for greater investment. In the first implementation of energy efficiency, alternative energy programmes and enables the use of catalytic converters, National Communication, a number of inventory of Greenhouse Gases. which reduce noxious gases including strategies were identified for Public ● Pilot Projects for beach ● Further investment for beach Green House Gases emissions by about Awareness, Education and Outreach. These ● Assessment of Coastal Improvement improvement and lagoon monitoring 90%. include mounting of courses including vulnerability and ● Monitoring of the coral ecosystem impact of sea-level Climate Change modules across the ● Monitoring of circulation changes in rise curriculum at the University of Mauritius. the lagoon and fish stock Use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Further training is planned to build up local assessment and sustainable yield (LPG) expertise in climate change issues as well as depletion.

in-country projections and computer ● ● ● Impact of Climate Reforestation Programme to Setting up of food laboratory LPG produces less air pollution and modelling of hazards.The need for a “Climate Change on increase green areas to absorb ● Investment in research emits less GHG emissions and its use Change Officer” or “Climate Change agriculture and carbon dioxide ● Setting up of a Seafood hub. Fisheries. as alternative fuel in cars is being Coordinator” in the appropriate institutions ● Research on impacts of climate change on sugar cultivation promoted in Mauritius. The DBM is to coordinate activities and to prepare future providing a loan of up to Rs 25 000 national communications was underscored. ● (US$ 870) to enable car owners to buy This programme is now being prepared for ● Effect of Climate ● Measures to enhance disaster Develop SIDS-SIDS partnership to a kit so as to use LPG in cars. implementation. Change on Natural preparedness through early warning benefit from regional expertise and Disasters system experiences

50 51

C HAPTER 1 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 1 Natural and Environmental Progress Mauritius are sustained government and Disasters regional financial support. This has insured The Challenges Natural Disasters: Cyclones and Torrential the provision of high technology equipment Rains and the recruitment and maintenance of Mauritius has adapted itself to cyclones with professional, technical and administrative The cyclone Gervaise in 1975 in Mauritius Natural Disasters precautionary measures, early warning teams to implement the programme. caused conditions for resurgence of malaria, systems and disaster system programmes. The Central Cyclone Committee meets each IDS by the nature of their size and which had been declared officially eradicated Computer plotting of cyclones and their year to review and make necessary isolation are exposed to extreme in 1973. Before the epidemic was finally trajectories, early warning systems, and amendments to the Cyclone Emergency weather conditions and are particularly controlled, there were over 2,500 reported S immediate and long term precautions, have Scheme. This Scheme requires all vulnerable to the threat of natural and malaria cases. Such cyclones of the past also transformed the capacity of the country to organizations, including bus companies and environmental disasters and have very caused extensive physical damage to survive and continue working effectively. other large employers, to have their own limited capacity to respond to and recover property and vital infrastructure such as cyclone contingency plans. The Committee from such disasters. Some are in addition by roads, bridges and power lines. Personal Early warning and preparedness are of crucial meets after the passage of each cyclone to their geology at risk from other natural injury, deaths and homelessness were importance for natural disaster management. assess the impact of the disaster and to disasters such as earthquakes. The volcano, common, and recovery slow and costly in Mauritius has made good progress in both decide upon prompt remedial actions. All however, that influenced much of the labour and materials. fields.Overcoming the risk of cyclones has relevant Governmental Organizations are topography of Mauritius is now dormant. been a high priority for Mauritius in the past called upon immediately after a cyclone to assess the action necessary to get the Mauritius is situated in the inter tropical three decades. Government started by country back to normal as quickly as convergence zone and is thereby highly setting up a National Cyclone and Natural possible. exposed to cyclones. On average one Disasters Committee, under the aegis of the cyclone passes within 100 km of Mauritius Prime Minister’s Office which also covers each year. The official cyclone season covers floods due to torrential rains or prolonged the period between the 1st November and drought. the 15th May. Wind gusts of 118 km per hour or more can then be experienced.With Precautions Against Cyclones such strong winds and accompanying heavy rainfall, cyclones can cause flooding, and have The objective of cyclone precautions is to a potential to produce physical damage with After the passage of a cyclone reduce the risk of death, damage to property a serious impact on the environment and The threat of climate change and sea level and infrastructure and social loss. The economy. The adverse effects of cyclones of rise present new challenges demanding a new measures taken include general this magnitude for island economies, if level of response. Mauritius also needs to environmental protection, early detection of recurrent, are even greater. This results in extend its capacity for surviving cyclones to the direction, speed, expected intensity and reducing the country’s capacity to re-activate even the remotest and least inhabited parts duration of the cyclone, response and rescue the development process after the passage of of the country, including Rodrigues and the services, selective environmental controls Flooding after torrential rain the disaster. outer islands, as these parts become more and public advice and information (See Box 54 developed with industry and tourism. 2.1). The essential features of success in 55

C HAPTER 2 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Drought Box 2.1 Public Early warnings of cyclones Water is scarce in Mauritius. 15% of the Class Criteria Action advised population has discontinuous supply due to shortages (See Chapter 7). Drought can 36-48 hours before the population Take preliminary precautions; checking food supplies, I emergency lighting and fuel, security of moveable objects. create a critical situation. During 1998-1999, is likely to be affected Preparation of safe refuges and rescue services are put on stand-by. Mauritius experienced the most severe 36-48 hours before the population Closure of schools; securing of houses and other 11 is likely to be affected buildings, opening of refuges, advice to population on drought since 1904 recording only 538mm of their location.Mobilization of rescue services. rain which represents 38 % of the long term As far as practicable, a lead time of 6 Closure of workplaces, public transport, restrictions III daylight hours before the advent of gusts of on private transport. mean. Water scarcity was identified as a 120 km per hour priority issue in the first National Gusts of the order of 120 km per hour have IV Closure of all public places; public advised to remain occurred and are expected to continue Environmental Action Plan (NEAP I) and in indoors in safe buildings. Drill operation for oil spill Following storm damage, flooding, Identification of priorities for action, mobilization of the second Action Plan (NEAP II).Investment Aftermath dislocation of public services and energy services; special rehabilitation programmes with public in dams, reservoirs, irrigation systems and systems, etc. and private mobilization of resources. reforestation has been the key to success in Note:These warning system classes are in use in the islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues Box 2.2 combating drought. Climate change can lead ‘ Roberts J L (2004) Cyclone early warning systems in the Western Indian Ocean; and Malaria control in Mauritius; Chapters 11 and 12, Potential sources of oil spills in in African Environmental Outlook,Vol. II, Case Studies, UNEP. to more severe droughts. Further steps in integrated management of water and Mauritius increasing use of recycled water for Airport of Mauritius Limited chairs the people to build cyclone-proof houses in agriculture and industrial use is envisaged. Oil-related Activities Airport Cyclone Crisis Committee at the Sir concrete. In 2000, 87 % of houses were in On-loading, offloading, and bunkering Seewoosagar Ramgoolam (SSRIA) and concrete or stone blocks, power lines are activities in the Port-Louis harbour, implements the airport cyclone procedures carried on concrete and steel supports. Environmental Disasters pipeline leak or rupture, overland in preparedness for forecast cyclone Planning regulations for all buildings require transportation, and indiscriminate conditions and subsequently in managing the robust structures against extreme weather Challenges disposal of used lubricating oil impacts on airport operations. conditions. Oil Spills Marine Sources Enhancing Resilience One benefit of accurate and rapidly Mauritius is constantly faced with the risk of transmitted forecasts is the capacity for an oil spill as the Indian Ocean is one of the ● Discharge of oil during operations in Mauritius participates actively in the Indian reducing unnecessary implementation and major oil tanker routes. Environmental Port Louis Harbour and of residues Ocean Global Ocean Observation System, duration of the maximum level of resources are at risk including coral reefs, sea from tank cleaning, which provides for a permanent system of precautionary measures, which can paralyse social grass beds, mangroves, beaches, shorelines systematic, routine and long term ocean and commercial activity of a population by confining and seabirds. Economic activities including ● Improper operational procedures observation and forecasts climate variability them to their homes or to specially provided refuges. tourism, commercial fishing, and port during bunkering of large fishing and and change. New tools include sensors on operations can be severely affected. other vessels in Port-Louis harbour, satellites, automated instruments that probe Mauritius has developed capacity to reconstruct and the depths of the ocean, powerful computers repair basic infrastructure to ensure that the The principal potential sources of oil-spill are ● Increasing pleasure boat activities in and the electronic distribution of data and economic machinery gets back on cruise as quickly as set out in Box 2.2. tourist areas like Grand Baie information worldwide. possible after a cyclone. contribute to minor accidental oil spills as well as to high concentrations 56 Government offers economic incentives to of oil in lagoon waters, 57

C HAPTER 2 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Capacity Building difficulties in fire fighting because of access ● Margina weather conditions could and limitations of local fire-fighting result in collisions at sea, a leading Under the NOSCP,regular training programs equipment. coast of Oil Spills worldwide, and and exercises for personnel likely to be involved in a response are carried out. In- The risk of fire and damage can be associated ● Severe weather conditions during the house training is also carried out by the with the following sites and situations in cyclone season raise the possibility of relevant organisations. These training Mauritius: shipwreck close to the island with programs are designed to enable Mauritius ● resulting spills in the medium or major to have sufficient numbers of trained To wn and village areas made up of old buildings such as the China Town of the category. Pipeline rupture could also personnel to mount a credible and effective capital city, Port-Louis, result in large spills. response to an oil spill accident. Regular drills ● High buildings, Oil spill caused by road accident are also organised every year to test the Airport Fuel Spills contingency plan. ● Old wooden “colonial” style houses, Progress ● Areas which are crossed by high voltage ● Fuel spillage during aircraft refuelling Regional Cooperation lines, and fuel escaping from inland air crash Oil Spills ● Petrol stations, or air crash in the lagoon during Mauritius has strengthened its institutional Mauritius is also party to the Regional Oil ● approach or take off from the airport. and legislative framework to control oil Spill Contingency Planning Project whose aim Transportation of petroleum products and Liquefied Petroleum Gas, pollution.The Department of Environment is is to put in place a Regional Contingency Plan Land Sources responsible for oil pollution preparedness for ongoing collaboration amongst ● The airport due to the nature of operational activities is also a potential and response. It is also the focal point for participating Nations to intervene jointly in site for fires, and ● Oil storage tanks in Fort Williams, receipt and transmission of oil pollution cases of major spills, either in territorial Port-Louis near the harbour and at ● Burning of sugar cane and its risk to reports. waters of a single nation or in case of a houses and hotels. Plaisance Airport. Both the tanks and In line with the provisions of the transboundary spill affecting more than one The Fire Services ensure adequate fire associated pipelines are a potential Environment Protection Act 2002, Mauritius party state. The beneficiary countries are fighting services in cases of fire outbreaks. source of spills. Improper disposal of has prepared a Contingency Plan with Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius and The Jet A1 Aviation fuel tank farm at SSR oily wastes from tank cleaning is also a support of the Indian Ocean Commission to Seychelles. International Airport is surrounded by a source of oil pollution at the tank respond to oil spills.The Plan applies to all oil bund wall that has sufficient holding capacity farms, spills, whether inland, on the adjoining Fire Outbreaks and Other Environmental to allow emergency response procedures to shorelines or within the maritime zone. It Disasters be implemented. Airports of Mauritius ● Indiscriminate disposal of used ensures a national integrated Government Limited (AML), Airport Rescue and Fire lubricating oil in filling stations, motor and industry response capable of effective Risks of other Environmental Disasters Fighting Service comply with the standard set mechanic workshops, and various and prompt action. The Plan includes a data include fire, explosion from supplies of oil by the International Civil Aviation industrial plants, and directory and a Coastal Sensitivity Atlas of and chemicals used in industry,airline crashes Organisation and are supported in the event Mauritius. and terrorist attack. The increasing number of an emergency by the Government Fire ● Road accidents during inland of high rise buildings presents problems for Services. Regular exercises of the Airport transportation of petroleum products. 58 safe evacuation in the event of fire and Emergency Plan are conducted, the most 59

C HAPTER 2 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE recent full crash exercise being held in vulnerability in so far as security aspects such Strengthening is needed in public and terrorist attack has been introduced amidst October 2004 involve all airport and civil as terrorist threats are concerned. The commercial awareness of fire risk and the concern to protect civil liberties and to emergency services in simultaneous land and relevant authorities are initiating and implementation of more rigorous preserve the country’s record of openness sea simulated accidents. enhancing existing logistics and facilities to precautions for fire safety, prevention, fire- and its friendly welcome to all visitors. effect surveillance and control to ensure fighting and rescue systems. Legislation on Government is furthermore putting in place security. However, the country needs strategies as precautionary measures namely: financial and technical assistance from the international community to meet its ● Underground cabling of electrical wires obligations towards the implementation of 2. Natural and environmental Disasters in high risks areas such as tall buildings, the new international Maritime Security A Policy and Programme Progress sheet passage of high voltage lines, Regime and the Security Council Resolution Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead 1373. ● Regional satellite early warning ● Monitoring climate change and sea level ● All buildings need to have fire sensors, ● Cyclones and system rise hydrants and circuit breakers, The Way Ahead floods ● Public precautions ● Local precautions ● Building standards ● International negotiations

● All residential buildings need to have Precautions and contingency plans against ● Development of technical capacity circuit breakers installed (Such has not oil-spills, fires, airplane crashes and civil ● Risk analysis ● Oil spills ● Improvement in law enforcement ● Contingency plans been the case until now), disasters are increasingly moving from the ● Training exercises drawing board to meet the practical test of ● ● Fire safety regulations and inspections Setting up of Petrol Stations is controlled field trials. The continuing threat of climate ● Multi-sector planning ● Fire fighting capacity and equipment by a Preliminary Environmental Report change and sea level rise warrants further ● Fires and ● Review of special risk areas (high rise ● Special risk contingency plans explosions buildings, sugar cane burning, dangerous (PER) which controls the storage and investment in local precautionary measures (chemical fires, Port Louis oil chemicals) handling of fuel. Furthermore, it is now a and more intensive advocacy and container risks) policy not to allow for the siting of Petrol international negotiation to reduce the global ● Risk analysis ● Further development of technical Stations in the midst of residential areas, risk through the implementation of the ● Airline crashes ● Contingency plans capacity Kyoto protocol. ● Airline regulations ● Learning from international experience ● Presently, trained and skilled manpower are preferred to “amateurs” for electrical ● Responding to international guidelines ● Legal provisions and experience whilst protecting civil installations at all level including for ● Te rrorist threats ● Security monitoring liberties and the welcoming culture of individual household installations, and Mauritius.

● Safe transportation of LPG and fuel is also an issue that need to be addressed and Government is preparing guidelines.

The large size of the Exclusive Economic 60 61 Zone of the country increases its Precautionary measures against airplane crashes

C HAPTER 2 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 62

C HAPTER 2 LAND RESOURCES control of development have led to the environment of roads, bridges, housing, admixture of incompatible developments, factories, shops and offices, bridges, power The Challenges encroachment into environmentally sensitive cables, water and sanitary systems. areas and conversion of prime agricultural land. Agriculture The land for agriculture, with 39% under sugar cane. 30% is forest and scrub land, 26% is built on Changes in Land Use The agriulture sector constitutes essentially with roads, houses and other buildings, and and is a scarce resource in SIDS, often of sugar production and has been the 1% is used for permanent grazing. Most land fragmented across many widely In Mauritius, a high population density and backbone of the Mauritian economy for long in Mauritius is privately owned, except for Lseparated islands with few modern the spatial impact of multiple economic until the establishment of the Export the coastal areas and other land which is held transport links. Human development and activities, including human settlements have Processing Zone (EPZ). Arable land devoted by the Government. natural forces put land under pressure.These given rise to major changes in land use. to sugar plantation is gradually decreasing. In pressures derive from size and isolation, from 2002, its contribution to GDP was estimated Mauritius was uninhabited until as late as pollution from industry, from agricultural These changes historically included, clearing at 6.4 % and in terms of export earnings, 1598 and has been successively a Dutch, chemicals seeping into fresh waters and soils, the natural forests for their timber, for fuel total sugar exports constituted 20 % of total French and British colony, becoming from urban development, from traffic and and for agriculture, selling off the ebony, domestic exports compared to about 70 % independent in 1968. It is now, one of the from the domestic use of energy and importing new species such as sugar, tea and to decades ago. most densely populated islands in the world services. The pressures are intensified by tobacco. This provided wealth to the land with a density of 591 inhabitants per square conflicting demands for access and use and owners and colonists, and food and The sugar industry has long benefited from km. also become critical with the impact of employment to the growing population. But guaranteed prices and preferential access extreme natural events. at the same time they caused much into the european markets under the Sugar irreversible environmental damage, including Protocol and the Lome Convention and now Like most SIDS, Mauritius has little land and soil erosion and land degradation, depletion the COTONOU agreement. However, the a fragile ecology. The main islands Mauritius in biodiversity and an increase in the built and Rodrigues and a group of outer islands and islets have a total area of about 2,040 km2. The main island of Mauritius is 1,865 km2 in area, volcanic in origin.

The coastline of Mauritius is 322 km long and almost entirely surrounded by a fringing coral reef enclosing a lagoon area totalling 243 Urban sprawl in Mauritius km2.The freshwater bodies on the mainland comprise approximately 2000 ha of High quality land, particularly in prime coastal reservoirs, rivers, streams and creeks. areas, is scarce and is sought after by a variety of competing users. Land planning

64 On the main island 43% of the land is used failures in the past coupled with inadequate 65

C HAPTER 3 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE protocol expires in 2006, and with duty -free corals, sand dunes, beaches and mountains. (iii)The continued expansion of tourism and community facilities especially waste access to the EU market for least deveoped and hotel resorts mainly on the coast management and sewerage. Many coastal countries’ (Including SIDS) sugar taking effect Mauritius has about 57,000 ha of forest, 60% settlements do not conform to the planning from July 2009, the price Mauritius obtains of which is privately owned. Only 6,000 ha Land degradation is one of the major guidelines for set back, sea defences, access for its sugar will fall significantly, this of the private lands are protected by law as environmental problems of Mauritius. Only to the beach and height of buildings.This can impacting negatively in the country’s mountain or river reserves. All native state- 1.5% of the original native vegetation covers be seen at Flic en Flac in the west and in economy. owned forests have been converted into remains today. The many mountains, no Grand Baie in the north. National Park and nature reserves, but longer covered by trees, aid the process of In anticipation of the unfavourable private forest lands are gradually being lost soil erosion leaving barren gullies on the The effects include a reduction in scenic developments on the international scene, the to other land uses. mountain slopes. The problem is further attractiveness and amenity value of the Sugar Industry Efficiency Act 2001 was compounded by long periods of droughts coastline, restricted public access to the passed which provides for the conversion of Sixteen Nature Reserves have been declared which hinder re-forestation. beach, pollution of coastal waters with former sugar land for urban development. In since 1951. The reserves cover 2.5% of the sewage and solid wastes and beach erosion the same year, the implementation of the island and range in size from the 1.5 ha The demand for housing is the single largest inhibiting better development of the beach Sugar Sector Strategic Plan (2001-2005) that Perrier Nature Reserve to the 3,611 ha pressure on the future use of land and could resource, without large-scale reconstruction. was embedded in the Act started. In parallel Maccabé– Bel Ombre Nature Reserve. The involve conversion of 5,000 ha by 2020. 800 The Tourism Development Plan for Mauritius to reducing labour costs through a Voluntary first National Park was established in 1994 – ha of land could be needed for new business (2002) predicts that provision for tourists Retirement Scheme (VRS) for the sugar the Black River Gorges National Park. parks and industry including SMEs. 400 ha will expand from around 9,000 rooms in companies, the centralisation of sugar Despite these initiatives native biodiversity is may be needed for new schools, colleges and 2000 to 20,000 in 2020, hence the factories is also being pursued to achieve economic scale. Goverment has made now mainly confined to the south-western universities and other institutions, in addition construction of more hotels. Current provision in the Act that such land region of the island together with a few to the current major school construction proposals received by the Ministry of conversion be properly planned and not ad other remote areas on mountain ridges and programme.To this should be added, current Housing and Lands for Integrated Resort hoc and to that effect, the Act makes on offshore islets. Three key land use trends proposals and possible growth in demand for Schemes (IRS) may require around 2000 ha provision for “land swaps” to facilitate the have been identified:- integrated resorts, leisure complexes, public of land. sensible location of development. The above transport, highways and utilities including the changes has inevitably led to a decrease in LRT and new dams. Estimates made by the Department of land use for agriculture by approximately (i) The continued urbanisation of the Environment indicate that some 20% of 5,500 ha. This shift is likely to continue over conurbation by growth of housing, Some 66% of industry in Mauritius is located wetlands have been filled in the Northern the next two decades as 6,200 hectares will retail, commercial and industrial in the central urban zone. Almost half is tourist zone, 50% in the western area of Flic be needed to accommodate the increase in development confined to industrial zones, but in some en Flac and 50% of the remainder are under population and expansion of the tourist cases, poor initial planning and expansion of pressure, including the new Belle Mare industry. (ii) The dispersal and decentralisation of residential and industrial sites has led to a tourist zone on the east coast (NES , 1998) building to the urban fringe and to mixture of housing and industry. The human impact in small islands is other countryside locations where new The principal effects of building on wetlands pervasive unless deliberate measures for housing is being developed through the In many coastal areas, rapid development of include a reduction of the biological habitat protection of sensitive areas such as various land conversion schemes housing and commerce has outstripped the and of the amenity value of natural areas. 66 wetlands, forests and woodlands, lagoons, rate of provision of environmental services Building has increased pollution of the lagoon 67

C HAPTER 3 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE by affecting the important functions of the in the conurbation and enabling rural potential to provide for convenient access by be enforced by the local authorities with the wetlands such as reducing nutrient loads and regeneration and tourism development in public transport, by cycle and on foot.There support of Ministry of Housing and Lands. retaining sediment. and around other settlements and in the should also be proper planning so as to make They are important instruments for countryside and on the coast. best use of existing transportation networks environmental protection. These design The concentration of business, industry and and have regard to strategic priorities. This guidance on sectoral development have been residences in the Port Louis and central area will all require more attention from finalised and outline schemes have also been of Plaines Wilhems has put acute stress on professionals, skilled in land development and revised. both infrastructure and resources. Land use urban planning, which the country lacks at patterns have a direct impact on the traffic present. The aim would be to manage Institutional Reform- The Environment intensity.These heavily built up areas, coupled development in ways which enhance and Protection Act (EPA) with a lack of adequate planning, give rise to protect the environment and provide better serious problems of traffic congestion, quality of life for the people. The EPA was passed in 1991 has been concentrated along the main routes to the repealed and replaced by EPA 2002 which capital city. The impact includes localised provides for more vigorous control over land episodes of poor air quality and its effects on Progress use planning and development by:- the health of the urban population and delays Old retail shop in travelling around the island and Policies (i)Institutional Strengthening consequent higher transport and operating The Government has developed new laws ● Environmental Police for the costs for business. and new institutional arrangements to plan enforcement of environmental laws, and manage better use of land.The objective

The main challenge facing the land resources has been to strike a new balance between ● National Network for Sustainable in Mauritius is to ensure that land is readily the national interest and competing Development as a consultative forum available for the economic development commercial interests, to reach decisions including the public sector, private sector objectives of the nation, while taking into more quickly and to apply agreed strategic and NGOs chaired by the Minister of account environmental concerns and social principles for a better future.This has meant Environment, needs. sweeping away old laws and procedures and ● ICZM Committee involving the public establishing a new framework for New shopping complex sector, private sector and NGOs in management. One solution is to concentrate future major coastal management, development in and around strategic growth clusters in the conurbation including Cyber Development should be planned so that The National Physical Development Plan ● New procedures for processing City, and in existing major settlements wherever possible, it minimises the need to and the National Development Strategy schemes, elsewhere, where a critical activity mass has travel and facilitates safe and convenient (ii) Strengthening of the existing already been built up or can shortly be movement on foot, by cycle and by public The National Physical Development Plan enforcement mechanism, including ‘stop orders’ and fixed penalties envisaged. transport. Development that generates large (NPDP) approved in 1994 has been replaced numbers of passenger movements should be by a new National Development Strategy (iii) Establishment of standards or approved in 2003.The NES makes provisions This could include promoting an urban located close to sites including Urban guidelines for built- up environment and 68 renaissance, particularly in key town centres renaissance Zones which provide or have the for a series of planning guidance, which will landscape. 69

C HAPTER 3 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE New Planning Law Professional Development ● The Morcellement Permit under the the commitments of the country, Strategic plans to fulfil these aims and the Morcellement Act, preserving agricultural land and The Professional and technical skills National Environmental Action Plan have optimising in agricultural land. needed to operate the new planning system are in short supply. This capacity been incorporated within a cohesive legal ● Modification of zoning when the area needs to be built up for: framework.A key component is the Planning intended to be developed is not zoned The policy intent behind the and Development Act 2004.This follows the for such either in a Scheme that is Morcellement Act is to ensure that no ● Land use planning, principles of Agenda 21 and the BPoA. approved or under preparation under land is subdivided and sold for any the Town and Country Planning Act, and development purpose unless the Formerly, the focus was on development ● Enactment and enforcement of laws, control.The new Planning and Development requirements of relevant authorities ● EIA licence under the Environment are satisfied e.g. proper planning legislation of 2004 paves the way for ● Establishment of guidelines, Protection Act. integrated planning of land use. It moves from including issues like community development criteria, traffic safety, no environmental protection to sustainable ● Environmental Impact Assessment and Each of the above laws operates under risk of flooding and all infrastructural development.The new 2004 law provides for EIA monitoring, different legislative policy and intent. requirements such as roads, drains, integrated physical and land use planning and The Town and Country Planning Act waste disposal, and electricity are met. ● management. It seeks to minimise conflicts Environmental protection of sets out the principle of development - Environmentally Sensitive Areas, and and achieve efficient trade offs, linking social i.e. it provides, through technical The purpose of the EIA licence under and economic development with documents that are transmitted the Environment Protection Act is to ● Strategic planning for transport environmental protection. (See Box 3.1). through appropriate safeguarding ensure that specific undertakings (as networks and outlines schemes. procedures set out by the law, zoning set out in the Schedule to the Act) Box 3.1 information (and other relevant which fail to comply with Dealing With Sensitive issues Land Development Permits criteria) as to what land use may be environmental requirements cannot go ahead and that those, which are allowed and under what conditions at One aim of the planning system is to deal approved comply with specific The main permits/clearances required any given time. with the many sensitive issues that arise in for the land development permitting mitigative measures. land use management. These include land rights; tourist carrying capacity and the processes are as follows: The main policy intent behind the On top of the above licences under protection of the interest of local residents; Building Act is to provide for structural the above Acts, there are other the extension and improvement in basic ● The Development Permit under the safety. legislation controlling the use of land, infrastructure of roads, bridges, power, To wn and Country Planning Act, The Building Act overlaps with the like the Pas Geometriques Act and the lighting and sewerage systems; sustainable To wn and Country Planning Act on State Lands Act (which control the use mobility; and the promotion of style and matters like setback and parking of State land), the Finance Act (which aesthetic values in environmental planning. ● The Building Permit under the Building standards. provides special provisions for HDC Act, Land ownership is a critical aspect of policy for projects); some of the permits would The main policy intent behind the sustainable development and social cohesion. It also be dependent on clearances from ● The Land Conversion Certificate Sugar Industry Efficiency Act is the is also closely linked to poverty relief and other Authorities like CWA, CEB and under the Sugar Industry Efficiency necessity to ensure that sugar conservation of land quality. Decent housing the Ministry of Energy. 70 Act, production level is sufficient to meet for all is a priority for social and economic 71

C HAPTER 3 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE progress and for maintaining environmental In the next phase of development, there will ensure that this scale of change in land use value. Public housing schemes have not be increased demands on land in line with projected can be accomplished within the succeeded in reaching the poorest people. economic and social change. IT and business spirit of the new planning framework. One There is a backlog of around 20,000 on the list parks will require more land. Tourism answer may be to include the principle of the for new housing. Whilst over 85% of families development will require more land in garden city within the guidelines for the live in owner occupied property in Mauritius, coastal areas with high risks of future. Mauritius cannot be returned to its and most of that is cyclone proof, poverty relief encroachment on environmentally sensitive former pristine state, before the imprint of through decent housing for poor people areas. New housing however will dominate man has irreversibly transformed it. But the remains a continuing challenge. future could include the promotion of The recent structural changes in the sugar the picture. This is necessary to meet the industry, which have led to the release of lands needs of a still growing population, to meet Mauritius as cultivated garden state in which for other purposes, will have potentially far- the needs of poor people for decent housing, every built development plays its role in reaching effects on the future disposition of and the changing patterns of family life. To promoting and protecting the quality of the land use in the countryside. 4 600 ha of operate the new planning system new habitat. sugarcane land has so far been committed by technical tools have to be developed. These Government for conversion, mainly for housing include: Enhancing Resilience Sale of locally produced vegetables in covered market in private plots. Over the next 20 years or so, a further 24 000 ha of sugarcane land could be ● Guidelines and the means to enforce No national land development programme released for other agricultural and non- them, can be sustainable unless it incorporates a agricultural purposes. The new planning strong element of social justice and legislation allows the Government to promote ● Technical skills at local level, redistribution.There is a need to ensure that styles of development that match the scenic the housing programme remains sustainable beauty of the island and avoid eye-sores that ● Better information system including basic have blighted the building practice and and there are appropriate and accompanying data and monitoring to translate planning infrastructure development of earlier times. measures of social integration.There is also a policies into detailed schemes, need to ensure that the lower middle income particularly to protect environmentally groups who do not benefit from direct and ecologically sensitive areas, Government subsidy are not priced out. ● Clearer Institutional Responsibility, and The Way Ahead Food security can only be achieved through increased, planned and efficient agricultural ● Adequate public awareness and Mauritius is characterised by the inherent production. As transport costs increase, so participation to enable them to environmental vulnerabilities of Small Island more attention has to be given to local food Developing States. Environmental contribute effectively. production. This is a new area for regional degradation can become a serious co-operation and technical exchange. The impediment to economic and social progress Management of land resources in Mauritius is size of SIDS and their topography make them if appropriate measures are not taken to presently at the cross-roads. The aim is to a special case for agricultural development reconcile current pace of economic growth establish a comprehensive plan of land especially in market gardening. with sustainable management of the management.The 2004 legislation is a starting point. environment. Judicious management will be needed to 72 73

C HAPTER 3 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 3. Land Resources A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Environmental protection Acts ● Strict enforcement of laws and Land degradation 1991 and 2002 guidelines ● National Development Strategy 2003 and design guidance for ● capacity building of local staff sectoral development ● Adequate coordination and information ● Environment Impact Assessment exchange between ministries in planning ● lanning and Development Act 2004 ● Institutional strengthening activities ● Strengthening of existing ● Adequate basis data and monitoring enforcement mechanism ● ● Environmental policies Public participation ● Identification of sensitive hot spots ● Clear institutional responsibility for management ● Reducing soil erosion

Urbanisation and ● Environmental protection Acts ● Judicious land management under the industrialisation 1991 and 2002 new planning framework ● National Development Strategy ● Enforcement of new legislation 2003 and design guidance for sectoral development ● Environment Impact Assessment ● Planning and Development Act 2004

Rapidly increasing ● ICZM Committee ● Capacity building coastal development ● Environmental protection Acts ● Adequate basis data and monitoring with expansion of 1991 and 2002 ● Clear institutional responsibility tourism and hotel ● National Development Strategy resorts 2003 ● Environment Impact Assessment

● Traffic congestion ● National Development Strategy Closer integration of land use and 2003 transport planning

Deforestation and ● Conservation ● Promoting the garden island principle reduction of ● Reforestation programmes ● Safeguarding scenic attractiveness and ● National parks biological habita amenity value of natural areas ● Education and awareness programme ● Reforestation

Conflicting uses ● Planning and development Act 2004 ● Resolving conflicting use of land ● Environmental protection Acts resources 1991 and 2002 ● National Development Strategy 2003 ● 74 Environment Impact Assessment

C HAPTER 3 Biodiversity resources Plants Birds

The Challenges As with many isolated islands Rodrigues and The bird life on the islands is equally Mauritius harbour a unique collection of threatened, although species recovery some of the rarest plants and animals on the programmes for Mauritius kestrel, pink he islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues Mauritius are to protect and restore the planet. Mauritius has about 680 native pigeon and echo parakeet, have saved many were uninhabited until the 16th wealth of biodiversity being lost for future species of plant remaining – of which about species on the brink of extinction. The century. The climatic, geological and generations, to promote valuable economic T 70 are already thought to be extinct. About International Council for Bird Conservation topographical regimes resulted in the and social uses for these natural resources, 300 of these species are endemic to (ICBP) has classified Mauritius as first among evolution of diverse biota with a high degree and to strengthen regional and international Mauritius.Almost all of the remaining species the 75 forests of major importance for of endemism, further promoted by the age collaboration essential to the success of such are threatened to some extent through threatened birds in the African Region. and isolation of the islands. But with specialist activities in SIDS. habitat loss, invasive alien species and development, this biodiversity has been exploitation. In Mauritius 79 species are Native Forests: adversely affected, especially by human Invasive alien species arrived in Mauritius and represented by less than 10 individuals in the habitation, direct exploitation and the Rodrigues with the first boats landing on the invasion of alien plant and animal species. islands. Rats, deer, pigs, monkeys, cats, wild, and several of these by a single Native forests cover less than 2% of mongooses all destroy the native fauna of the individual. Mauritius, and are restricted to the south Some of the damage such as the species island, and eat seedlings and seeds of the west area where much is protected within extinction (most famously the dodo), the native flora. Many exotic plant species are Although conservation activities began some the Black River Gorges National Park, the destruction of vital habitats and the impact of naturalised and dominate areas that should 25 years ago, the World Conservation Union south eastern Bambous mountains (mostly invasive alien species, is irreversible. be native forest. These pose an enormous (IUCN) has rated Mauritius as the third privately owned or leased) and isolated Nevertheless both islands have been the host problem for the survival of the forest – the country in the world after Hawaii and mountain ridges (e.g. Le Morne, Port Louis to significant international and local plants out-compete the natives by stealing Canary islands to have the most threatened Range, Corps de Garde) and islets such as programmes of conservation to help protect space, nutrients and sunlight. plant species Round Island and Ile aux Aigrettes. indigenous biodiversity resources. These are being recognised as making important There are 49 islets present around Mauritius Conservation of the forests involves contributions to world heritage, to the with area ranging from 253m2 to 253 intensive management of critically attraction of eco-tourism and for medicinal hectares. Some of them are highly degraded endangered species in specialist nurseries, and other uses. while others have been actively restored to restoration of forests by weeding predator protect their unique biodiversity. Because the control and replanting. Fortunately Agalega and St Brandon are islets were less badly affected by IAS, they almost pristine and are very important for still contain fragments of the native Progress marine diversity and tropical seabirds. St biodiversity now extinct on the mainland Brandon has had little formal development, Mauritius and its islands harbour a relatively ● National Biodiversity Strategy and and according to a recent World Bank wide variety of endemic plant species that Action Plan (NBSAP): Mauritius has already report, it should be kept this way to allow are used in traditional medicines. Many of produced a draft National Biodiversity nature to remain untouched. these plants, have been classified as endangered. Strategy Plan which includes the following The principal challenges being addressed by Trochetia boutoniana, endemic and National flower 76 thematic sectors: Forest biodiversity; 77

C HAPTER 4 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Te rrestrial Biodiversity; Agro Biodiversity; intensively weeded and fenced areas ● Setting up of a Tree Seed Centre for occupies an area of 26 ha, near the capital Freshwater, Coastal and Marine Aquatic within the National Park to allow the plantation species under the SADC city of Port Louis, and consists of mud flats Biodiversity; Biotechnology and Sustainable native forest to regenerate. Regional Cooperation and muddy sand, with over 1000 migratory ecotourism. Furthermore, the Ministry of birds and some vagrant species. – Agriculture has produced a Non-Sugar ● Restoration of offshore islets such as Ile ● Producing one million seedlings of Sector Strategic Plan 2003- 2007 and one of aux Aigrettes and Round Island plantation species annually in the six ● Marine Diversity its objectives is to promote the conservation forest nurseries of Forestry Service to of natural biodiversity and fostering ● Inventory and Study of Medicinal and support the reforestation and National Marine parks and aquatic biodiversity Tree Planting Campaign. projects are being promoted including sustainable utilization of natural resources. Aromatic Plants projects on coral spawning and a field guide Progress in conservation of native flora has ● Recording System on coral species was published in 2001. A been made with support from NGOS and Funding has come from the Government and mangrove propagation project has recorded Government and with external funding. NGO's and others including the World Bank Global Equity Fund, UNDP Global Equity A computer based plant recording system a success rate of 85% from seedlings planted has been set up for recording information on in the 1990s. ● Flora Conservation Fund Small Grants Project, and private donors monitoring plants in the wild and in nurseries. Tw o marine parks have been set up have Flora conservation works: been set up in Mauritius, one of 350 ha at ● Conservation Management Areas: ● Herbarium Collection Blue Bay and the other of 480 ha in Balaclava. ● Plant prospection to increase knowledge Setting up of conservation management areas by the NPCs for the protection of of distribution and abundance of A herbarium located in the Mauritius Sugar To prevent poaching in the Blue Bay Marine endangered bird species including echo threatened species Industry Research Institute, has been set up Park and protect the rich biodiversity therein parakeets and pink pigeons.- to date 10 containing over 25,000 specimens with a special unit, the Blue Bay Marine Park ● Update of the IUCN red data list CMAs cover a total area of 40 hectares. species from the Mascerene islands and Patrol, has been set up in 2004. islets. ● Propagation of critically endangered ● Forests Management: ● Fish Reserves plants and ferns through specialist ● Botanical Gardens for Conservation nurseries The State owned forestlands are governed by and Tourism Six fish reserves have been designated to the Wildlife and National Parks Act 1993 but protect and preserve habitats which serve as ● Conservation of plant genetic resources the privately owned forestlands have no legal The SSR national Botanical Gardens have an nurseries for juvenile fish. through field genebanks protection. With a view to cope with the area of 60 acres planted with 500 plant challenges of forest management, a number species and a national collection of native ● Fauna Diversity: ● Trial of different methods of forest of actions were taken. These are: plants of Mauritius. It is the most visited restoration tourist site of the country. It also includes a The Mauritian Kestrel, the Echo Parakeet and

● Setting Up of a Biodiversity Unit at the medicinal plant garden the Pink Pigeon are the three threatened ● Proclamation of Black River Gorges Forestry Service Department in 1997 endemic birds that have been saved from National Park in 1994 ● Wetland reserve extinction due to extensive conservation work have been carried out in captivity and ● Creation of a Greenhouse Unit in 1999 to ● Development and maintenance of In 1999 a wetland reserve was established in the wild by internationally funded NGOs support the Biodiversity Unit 78 conservation management areas – and designated as a Ramsar site in 2001. It 79

C HAPTER 4 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE reserves, open nature reserves, tourism and Box 4.1 Fruit Bat: Of the three species of fruit Microchipping of the Round Island boa recreational and passive reserves. One of the Progress with Promoting Animal bat which existed in Mauritius now is being carried out in order to recommendations of the task force is the Biodiversity only one species remains. A captive estimate the population and to study creation of Islets National Park. On 5 June breeding programme is under progress their ecology. As far as the Nactus 2004, 8 islets: Rocher des Oiseaux, Pigeon Kestrel: Out of a population of only 4 to protect the remaining species. competition between introduced and Rock, Ilot Vacoas, Ile D’Ambre, Ile aux birds in 1974 including a single native geckos is being studied. Oiseaux, Ile aux Fous, Ile aux Fouquets and breeding female, the Kestrel Mauritian Fody: Currently there are Ile aux Flamants, were declared as National population in 2004 is estimated to be about 120 pairs of the Mauritian fody Insects: Under the Darwin Initiative Parks. about 600 to 700. It is thought that the in the wild.A trial; release was made in funding has been obtained to carry out population will stabilise around 800 2003 on Ile aux Aigrettes with a high studies on insect. A post doctoral Round Island which is one of the small islets individuals. Low-level monitoring and survival rate of 50% and there has study is being carried out on ants is close to Mauritius, harbours eight species of further research work will then be been one successful breeding and Mauritius, the different species, their reptile which are all endemic to the required to maintain this population. fledging. ecology and the competitive effects of Mascarene Islands and four of the above introduced species. At present only species (including a giant skink, a gecko and a Seabirds: Ringing study is being carried Echo Parakeet: Of the known 20-25 eight ant species endemic to Mauritius snake) occur only on Round Island and individuals of the Echo Parakeet in out on sea birds Round Island namely are known. There are also several nowhere else in the world. These species 1987 the population has been red-tailed tropic bird, white tailed projects on pollination of native survive here because the island never had increased to about 230 birds at the tropic bird and wedge tailed species in the upland forests to any rats. The island has been under active end of the breeding season 2003-2004. shearwater. The breeding and nesting management due to funding by a grant from determine whether exotic pollinators The forecast by the end of the success of the Round Island Petrel is the World Bank GEF to restore the native are preventing successful seed set. breeding season 2004-2005 is that the being studied as well. vegetation cover, eaten to extinction by total world population may reach introduced goats and rabbits, and monitor Land snails: It is believed that about 130 about 300 individuals. The echo Reptiles: The outer islets of Mauritius the reptiles and the sea bird colonies and to land snails are native to Mauritius, out parakeet was considered at that time namely Flat Island, Round Island, prevent any new invasive alien species of which 30% have become extinct and as the rarest parrot in the world. In Serpent Island , Gunner’s Quoin and reaching the island through a strict another 30% are endangered due to fact, the Mauritian echo parakeet Ilot Vacoas harbour some of the rare quarantine system. habitat destruction and predation by rescue programme is perhaps the only and threatened endemic reptile introduced species. parrot project where known species including the primitive boa, the Ile aux Aigrettes is a Nature Reserve islet management techniques are applied. telfair skink, the gunther’s gecko and which has been leased to the Mauritius Nactus sp. Prospecting surveys are Wildlife Foundation, and considerable Pink Pigeon: From a population of 12-20 carried out on a regular basis in order ● Islets Biodiversity Management: conservation activities have been carried out Pink Pigeon in the late 1970’s the to make an inventory of species and there.The island contains the last fragment of number of bird has now reached 380. this has led to the recent discovery of In 2001 the Government of Mauritius set up coastal ebony forest and much effort has It is expected that, if additional releases a Nactus spp. on Flat Island. Further a task force to propose remedial measures been put in to control the invasive plant are conducted, the population should studies are being carried out on these for the restoration and protection of the species and restore the forest. The island is reach over 500 within 3 years, reptiles in a view to reintroduce them islets. The task force has classified the islets also a safe haven for pink pigeons and 80 in certain appropriate places. into the following categories: strict nature Mauritius fodys. 81

C HAPTER 4 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Serpent Island is an important habitat for a wide range of animal species which include Box 4.2 Box 4.3. propagation of horticultural plantlets. two lizards species, Nactus serpensisula and Management of biodiversity Biotechnology In the field of plant biotechnology the Gongylomorphus bojeri, one undescribed Initiatives focus is on the propagation of sugar The Objective of present biotechnology cane plantlets by tissue culture. The tarantula spider, centipedes, the only colony ● Preparation of a management plan for research in agriculture in Mauritius micro propagation of endangered of masked boobies in the Mascarene, very rivers, canals and streams, should be to refine the kinds of endemic plants, confined to some high densities of common noddies, tesser policies and strategies that would endemic orchids for the time being is noddies and sooty terns. ● Further initiatives funded by the enable biotechnology to contribute to also ongoing. Biotechnology research Ministry of Environment under the more efficient approaches to crop development perspectives for the ● Aquatic Biodiversity: second Environment Investment protection and production, for sugar cane industry are strong as Programme (EIP2), example drought and pest resistant Mauritius has an excellent ● Placing of two release cages at Bel In 2002 a study on ‘ The Inventory of cash crop and food crop varieties infrastructure and laboratory facilities Ombre and Combo for the Pink adapted to the local agro-climatic for modern biotechnology methods Freshwater Fish and Macrocrustaceans of the Pigeons, ecosystem, with less environmental for sugarcane improvement, and use of main rivers of Mauritius’ was carried out by ● Setting up of two conservation risk. This programme includes a by-products for commercialisation. a group of French Scientists from L’ management areas of 4.9 hectares process of product patenting, bio- Association Reunionaise de Développement each at Petrin and Belloguet for the safety ethics, product Apart from Genetically Modified de L’Aquaculture (ARDA) in collaboration protection of endemic plant species commercialisation and intelligent Organism Act 2004 there is an (such as ….), with some local counterparts.The study has marketing targeting a new class of absence of specific legislation covering ● Construction of a captive breeding established the rich biodiversity of our rivers modern agricultural farmers producing Bio safety and Bio-ethics. The same centre at Black River for endangered to meet both local and export applies for intellectual property rights namely the presence of 18 species of fresh birds, and markets. The development of with respect to patented rights in the water fish and 10 species of crustaceans ● Implementation of a National Pest biotechnology will provide an answer field of genetic engineering, respectively. The species were grouped into Control Strategy in the Black River to meet the challenge of the alternate biomedicine and animal vaccine. Gorges National Park. three categories: endemic, indigenous and use for the 7,000 acres of land exotic. Three of the endemic crustacean released from sugar cane cultivation.A species are the Cardina mauritii, Cardina new type of fertiliser is being produced ● Biotechnology: spathulorostris and Cardina richtersi (petite by the fertiliser plant of Mauritius chevrette). However, most of those species which produces better output. Biotechnology is an emerging technology in are few in number. Presently a management the Mauritian previously mainly limited to In Mauritius the Animal Health plan is being drawn for the conservation of sugar cane.The power of biotechnology as a Laboratory produces vaccines against the fresh water fish and macrocrutacean. tool for industry is increasing rapidly with the Newcastle Disease and Fowl Pox in creation of a wide range of materials such as small amounts basically to meet the biodegradable plastics, bio pesticides, needs of small and medium breeders. genetically engineered organisms and The private sector is involved to a very biocatalyst. (See Box 4.3). limited extent in the commercial 82 The Eco Parakeet Rescue Programme: 83 a successful conservation project

C HAPTER 4 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● Medicinal Plants: the aegis of the Indian Ocean 4. Biodiversity Resources Commission, a regional association A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet Preliminary research work conducted and funded by the European Union. at the University of Mauritius on a This study reported on the use of Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead number of endemic species has already several endemic/indigenous species in ● Implementing treaty obligations ● trengthen education programmes. shown the presence of the under- the traditional pharmacopeia. In ● Protect the richness of ● Creating national parks and ● Legal biodiversity protection on private mentioned classes of compounds. A Mauritius and Rodrigues alone, 634 biodiversity of the protected areas land. ● ● survey on Medicinal and Aromatic species are reported to have been islands Tree planting projects Empowering ngos in biodiversity ● Clearing invasive species management. Plantswas carried out recently under used traditionally. ● Ex situ conservation projects in ● Greater priority for wetlands natural and laboratory settings ● Identification of environmentally sensitive development ● Large scale restoration Ta b le 4.1 The medicinal value of plant resources in Mauritius ● Promoting ● Linking projects to tourist and ● Guidelines for recreational use of Plant resources Medicinal Properties economic and educational activities (Botanical marine and coastal areas (water social uses of the gardens, nature reserves, wildlife sports, diving, leisure craft, natural resources projects) mooring, reef fishing ● Antibacterial ● Secondary metabolites ● Supporting medicinal studies and ● Adaptation of EIA and other ● Anti-inflammatory therapeutic uses for endemic procedures to meet the challenges ● Terpene derivatives species of development in the most fragile ● Antiviral ● Promoting biotechnology ecological sites innovation ● Polyphenol compounds ● Anti allergic ● Antitumoral ● Promoting regional ● Sustaining and extending ● Promoting gene banks for security of ● Antifungal and international collaborative scientific studies conservation of species co-operation in ● Supporting regional and ● Strengthening regional and ● Cardioprotective biodiversity and international science projects international networks for research ● Antioxidant science and teaching. ● Development of professional and ● Free radical scavenging technical human resources and institutions to meet the growing needs in biodiversity programmes.

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C HAPTER 4 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 4 Coastal and Marine Resources Coastal ecosystems such as coral reefs In the past decades, Mauritius depended protect the land from the erosive forces of heavily on its textile and its sugar cane The Challenges the sea providing a calm extensive lagoon. industries but the focus is now shifting to Mangroves, sea grass beds, estuaries and coastal and marine resources and their oastal and Marine resources of small island states are of vital importance to their wetlands are essential to SIDS because of contribution to tourism and a rejuvenated socio- economic development. These resources have suffered from the process of their many roles for example they serve as fisheries industry.Tourism,primarily attracted Cdevelopment and are at risk from internal and external threats including climate nursery ground to commercial fish, birds and by the white sandy beaches, the lagoons and change and sea level rise.Action to protect these resources is a high priority for current and other animals, protection of shorelines from coral reef accounts now for 13 % of the total future plans.The coastal zone of Mauritius is defined in the EPA Act 2002 as any area which storms, provide a natural mechanism for GDP.The Government is already committed is situated within 1 km or such distance as may be prescribed from the high water mark, sustaining water quality and much more. to a target of one million tourist arrivals by extending either sides into the sea or the inlands. It includes: the year 2005. As shown in figure 5.1 and In the period 1990-2000 there has been: a figure 5.2, the number of tourist continues to ● Coral reefs, reef lagoon, beaches, wetlands, hinterlands and all islets within the territorial decrease in the area under vegetation, and an increase but the rate of growth both in waters of Mauritius and Rodrigues. increase in the area of hotels, public beaches, arrivals and in receipts is declining. Steps are ● Any estuary or mouth of river grazing on the cliffs and elsewhere, and being taken to ensure the natural resources

● The islands of Agalega and St Brandon and outer islets coastal roads. on which tourism largely depends are properly conserved and not irreversibly Ta b le 5.1 depleted. Information on the Coastal Zone of Mauritius

● Length of Coastline ● 322 Km ● Marine Exclusive Economic Zone ● ˜1.9 million km2 ● Continental Shelf Area ● 75, 0000 km2 ● Lagoon areas ● 243 km2 ● Length of coral reefs ● 150 km ● Area of coral reef ● 300 km2

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C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Uprooted trees caused by beach erosion at Flic-en-Flac Seepage contaminations

Following cabinet decision in October 2001, ● Industrial pollution at Baie du Tombeau. this practice was stopped.The mining of sand and Pointe aux Sables. and sand dunes have seriously reduced the supply of sand on beaches where it serves to The National Environment Action Plan Coastal Degradation groins and sea walls have been privately built protect the coast from the erosive action of (1999) has mainly attributed the reduction in in front of beachfront hotels and private villas waves. Moreover,this may lead to an increase the lagoon water quality to the four short The coastal zone is under growing pressure to protect the beaches from erosion. But in water turbidity starving the coastal areas sea outfalls, namely Baie du Tom beau,Pointe from both sea based and land based evidence suggests that these structures of oxygen and creating an inhospitable Aux Sables, Bain des Dames and Pointe activities. Increasingly over the last thirty promote rather than inhibit beach erosion, habitat for fish, shellfish and most marine life. Moyenne that release untreated effluent into the sea, the discharge of industrial and years, with the development of international leaving uprooted trees, exposed roots and Pollution of The Lagoons agricultural pollutants directly into the sea or tourism through long-haul jet airlines, the visibly narrowing beaches. via surface water and sewage seepage from coastal zone has experienced very rapid Monitoring of the lagoon water was started the shore side residences. Raw sewage development and mounting ecological Beach erosion is an increasing problem faced in early 90’s by the Ministry of Fisheries and including industrial effluent from Port-Louis pressure. Most of the pristine coastal sites by Mauritius and has led to the loss of beach is still ongoing. Reports have indicated that and Roche-Bois was being discharged at a have been exploited and now hotel planners space and biological impacts through the loss lagoon water quality is degraded in certain sewage outfall approximately one metre off are examining areas less touched by the of habitats.According to the Baird’s Report, a localised areas: the shoreline at Mer Rouge till the end of imprint of change. study commissioned by the M/Environment 2001. on coastal erosion in Mauritius, ● In 1996, five cases of red tides associated Beach Erosion approximately 7 km of beach is known to be with high nutrients levels were reported Progress significantly affected by erosion exacerbated at Trou aux Biches-Mon Choisy area, Development associated with the expansion by hard structures on the beach. Restoring beaches of tourism has resulted in the construction ● The beaches at Palmar have been Technical studies for evidence based of a large number of jetties, slipways, piers, Lagoonal sand mining used to be extracted at suffering from bulk accumulation of algae conservation projects breakwaters around the island for fishing the rate of 800 000 tonnes a year for for many years. This has been mostly Legislation and guidelines for coastline boats, pleasure boats and yachts. Numerous use by the local construction industry. attributed to seepage arising from animal development have had to be revised and 90 farming in the region, and strengthened to increase protection for these 91

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ecologically fragile areas of the country. The ● Preserve public access to beaches. Ministry of Environment has implemented in Actions ● Guidelines for coastal construction to the past several projects of coastal (ii) Relocation be developed, protection by placing gabions. However this ● Remove and relocate facilities to set ● A setback of a minimum distance of 30 ● Integrated Coastal Zone Management technique has been found ineffective. back line or elsewhere m from the HWM is set out as one of Plan, Consequently, the Ministry of Environment the conditions in the EIA licence for coastal construction and for all new conducted a study on coastal erosion in 2. Non-structural Intervention leases, ● Beach Management Plan, Mauritius in November 2002.The study was (i) Shore and Beach Management ● Controlled access of vehicles and completed in September 2003 and the ● Plan for coastal erosion Protection, pedestrians, ● Levelling and removal of sand dunes to consultants have made a series of be prohibited and included as part of recommendations which represent a ● Private Sector to be encouraged to ● Onshore grading, the coastal zone setback policy blueprint for Integrated coastal Zone remove unnecessary structures or implement beach fill projects in place Management. These recommendations were ● Restoration of native coastal ● Beach nourishment implemented in of structural approaches to erosion approved by the Government on 10 October vegetation enhancement, pilot project being evaluated (Flic en 2003 and will form part of the Integrated Flac), protection, Coastal Zone Management Plan for ● Dune protection and restoration, and Mauritius. The three pronged strategies ● To r estore corals in the lagoon at Flic cover: (1) Prevention (2) Non-Structural ● Vegetation and bioengineering to en Flac, a pilot project consisting of Banning of Sand Extraction. arrays of concrete blocks fastened Intervention and (3) Structural Intervention stabilize the slope surface. together were deposited in the lagoon. Following the cessation of lagoon sand (See Box 5.1). (ii) Beach Nourishment/ Beach Fill It is expected that within six months mining in 2001, compensation was paid to corals will settle on these blocks, Artificial placement of suitable beach those engaged in activity and adequate substitute materials are now available for the Box 5.1 material onto an eroding or sediment ● Outline Policy presently being construction industry derived mainly from The principal elements of coastal deficient beach area in order to amended, rock sand, as rocks are removed from fields zone management in Mauritius replenish, maintain / enhance the beach for increasing mechanisation of agriculture width ● Development plan for extension of and in the preparation of building sites. lessons learned from pilot scheme to Policy Banning sand extraction from coastal areas is 3 Structural Interventions other beaches, and 1. Prevention expected to have a significant beneficiary ● Groynes, (i) Setback impact in the rehabilitation of the lagoons ● Technical review of experience from ● Reduce impact of development, and in preventing beach erosion. Monitoring ● Artificial headlands, other SIDS. of the ex-sand mining sites is being carried ● Protect the dune-beach-lagoon ● out by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ministry ecosystem, Detached breakwaters, and Further Developments of Environment. Results show that the ex- ● Shoreline armouring (e.g. revetments sand mining sites are slowly recovering from ● Provide an environmental buffer for ● Develop schemes for relocation, the stress of sand mining. New corals and habitat and wildlife, and and seawalls). colonies of sea grasses have established ● Identifying construction for relocation, 92 themselves. 93

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Improving Water Quality in The Lagoons ● All systems should be inspected systems in order to provide house New regulations to reinforce Action is being taken to implement the connections to all properties framework of WMA have been regularly with a requirement to produce domestic, commercial and industrial. National Environmental Action Plan for made or are being made and an annual certificate of worthiness, and redressing the declining lagoon water quality National Sewerage Master Plan awaiting promulgation affecting certain coastal areas (See Box 5.2). ● Continued enforcement and National Sewerage Master Plan ● Standards for discharge of industrial improvement of controls from prepared in 1994 provides a complete effluent into the public sewers industry and agriculture. scheme for the development of Box 5.2 (expected shortly), wastewater sector in Mauritius. Action on water quality in coastal waters ● Plan seeks to connect 50 % of the ● Effluent Discharge permits under EPA- Establishment of Mauritius population to the public sewerage 2002, Oceanography Institute A broad strategy for improving water system by 2010/2012 quality of coastal waters is now being ● Bill passed in Parliament on 10th Mauritius is a party to the United Nations ● On completion of the NSMP most of put in place. the existing effluent will be disposed of August 2004, with reference to the Convention on the Law of the Sea which to sewer following: commits the country to adhere to Problem (a)the disposal of wastewater and international policy on conservation of living ● Funding has been secured for several effluent through the public sewer- resources of the high seas. The coastal and ● Discharge of untreated effluent into of the projects namely Montagne (Compulsory House Connection, ocean territory of Mauritius holds an the lagoon, Jacquot, Grand Baie, Baie du Tombeau, (b) the levying of wastewater fees from immense potential for development which St Martin and Plaines Wilhems ● Discharge of agricultural pollutants Sewerage projects comprising of the ground water users the waiver of fees, could play a vital role in the future economic directly into the sea or via surface NSMP surcharge on wastewater claims, and well being of the country. Recognising the water, and importance of the marine development, New Sewerage Plant at Baie du ● Cesspool emptying regulation Mauritius called for a strong oceanographic ● Tombeau Major industrial pollutants resulting (expected shortly). institute to capitalize on this development from dyeing, printing, tanning, battery- potential. With this objective in mind, the making and paint manufacture end up ● In January 2002, the new sewage in lagoon. outfall came into operation at Baie du Further Development Mauritius Oceanography Institute (MOI) was Tombeau. It caters for wastewater officially established in January 2000. One of Progress from Port Louis North, Fanfaron, ● Government to implement regulations the major responsibilities of the MOI is to Plaine Verte, Abercrombie, Cite la to ensure all coastal development is monitor the marine environment around Set up of Wastewater Management Cure, Cite Roche Bois, Cite Mer properly serviced for wastewater, Mauritius and the Outer Islands and advise Authority Rouge, Cite Ste Croix, Dockers Flat, Camp Firinga, Camp Florida and Government on policies that will maintain ● Has the responsibility to maintain and Camp Florida. As at June 2003, there ● Smaller establishments to have septic the health of these coastal and oceanic manage all existing public wastewater were approximately 3,300 households systems and larger developments to waters (See Boxes 5.3 & 5.4). (including those located in the housing systems, regulate construction of have treatment systems, private sewers and more importantly Estates) connected to the Baie du to expand the new sewer network Tombeau Wastewater treatment plant. 94 95

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Continental Shelf so that the Government Marine Ressources Management Box 5.3: Objectives of Mauritius Box 5.4: Projects initiated by can submit this claim well before the 2009 Oceanography Institute Mauritius Oceanography institute deadline. The local fishing industry provides livelihood ● Formulate, implement and ● Lagoon and Reef Watch Movement, for about 10,000 persons, plus support to coordinate of scientific programmes ● Bio prospecting Mauritius waters, Action taken the fishing as an adjunct to tourism. Fishing relating to the protection, ● Coral Recruitment, ● MOI contracted three cruises which yielded Rs 4 billions (US$ 139 million) as exploration and development of ● Inventory of the Coral Fauna of Mauritius, provided the vessels and geophysical export earnings in the year 2003. The marine living and non-living ● Study of Short Period Sea Level equipment to undertake the bathymetry exclusive economic zone, of marine waters, resources in the maritime zones of Oscillations Geo-spatial Information and geophysical surveys necessary to of 200 nautical miles, is to be further the Republic of Mauritius, system for Coastal Vulnerability Mapping substantiate this claim, developed for commercial fishing. It is ● Provide support services to stakeholders of the fishing industry of Mauritius, and planned that this element of the country’s including those involved in ● Geo-spatial Information system for ● Already acquired over 12,000 km of natural resources should play an increasing aquaculture, Coastal Vulnerability Mapping of Mauritius. multibeam bathymetric data on the role in the economic and social development ● Provide advice to policy makers on Mascarene Plateau, Chagos Ridge and the of Mauritius. To respond to this challenge, matters related to the management New projects starting Central Indian Ridge. These data will more resilience is needed to maintain the and development of marine define the foot of slope points upon quality of these resources and to make best resources and the conservation of ● Study of the lagoon-beach interactions at which the claim for an Extended use of them. marine environment including creation of marine parks and specific sites around Mauritius for a better Continental Shelf is predicated, and reserves in accordance with the control of coastal erosion, Improving Fisheries Resources provisions of the Fisheries and ● Modelling and mapping oceanic processes ● Seismic refraction and seismic reflection Marine Resources Act 1998 & EPA of South West Indian Ocean: a satellite- data on the Saya de Malha and Nazareth Fish is a traditional part of the local diet and 2002, and based approach, and Banks acquired. a key element in food security. Fishery catch ● Act as focal point for collaborative ● Database of marine organisms of the has decreased significantly during the last 10 research and management as regard Mauritian maritime zone. Next Steps years with a catch of 19, 690 tons in 1993 to to regional and international research. 9, 334 tons in 2002. Catch from the banks has ● Work is now focussed on the processing also decreased from 4, 707 tons in 1992 to Mauritius Claim for an Extended regard, the MOI has the important task to and interpretation of the data, 3, 159 tons in 2003. Continental Shelf formulate a claim to the UNCLOS

Commission on the Limits of the Continental ● The National Coast Guard is active in The coastal waters have faced a loss in The continental shelf area is the most Shelf for the extension of the marine the surveillance of the EEZ. However, productivity mostly due to the following: productive area for fishing and covers 75,000 jurisdiction of the Republic of Mauritius. because of the size of the Mauritian EEZ, ● Reduction in water quality, km2. Under the provisions of the United there is a lack of effective round the Nations Convention Law of the Sea, Extension of Marine jurisdiction clock monitoring, control and ● Overexploitation, Mauritius has the opportunity to extend its surveillance of the EEZ, and marine jurisdiction beyond the 200 nautical The project is on schedule for the ● Physical damage to fish breeding and mile EEZ.This extended zone, known as the formulation of the technical submission to ● A Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) is feeding grounds (careless anchoring, Extended Continental Shelf could provide the UN Commission on the limits of the projected to be operational in early 2005 traps, boat poles, reef walking, damage by for surveillance. divers and shell collection), 96 additional resources for our economy. In this 97

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● Alien species, and Box 5.5 Protection From Anchor Damage Fishermen are being encouraged to ● Destruction of wetlands and mangroves. Action to Improve Management of move out of the lagoon and Marine Resources A pilot project has been started at restrictions have been imposed such as Whilst the supply of fish from the lagoon has Grand Baie and Pereybere to protect banning spear fishing, a closed season decreased consumption of fish is increasing. Progress made dive sites from anchor damage through for net fishing and restrictions in This has put increasing pressure on fish the installation of Permanent Mooring catching undersized fish suppliers over the past decade to exceed Legislation Buoys. 20 other sites have been Off-lagoon fishing is being encouraged sustainable levels of exploitation of the identified around the island for the through incentives such as loans for available resources. More and more intensive A new Fisheries and Marine Resources project. purchase of offshore boats, training lagoon fishing has damaged the coastal Act provides the framework for and technical assistance, trials of new implementing national policies and Controls on Fishing Methods methods of fishing and waivers of habitats through the breaking of coral areas measures for sustainable management import duties on equipment. by anchoring and poling of boats and and development of fisheries and ● Use of small-mesh sardine nets Fishing practices such as large net and dropping and dragging basket nets. In conservation of marine and living is prohibited, basket trap fishing should be urgently addition to increased fishing pressure, resources. ● Very tight control on the import, reviewed. fisheries are directly influenced by pollution. storage and utilization of dynamite to Industrial effluents will be treated to prevent its use in fishing is being Further Development Mauritius is conscious of the delicate balance conform to published standards before exercised, and necessary to conserve the marine ecosystem discharged into the aquatic ● A closed season for net fishing ● Further guidelines to be developed to and maintain sustainable fisheries while environment. has been reintroduced. carefully regulate any activities that taking into account the interest of the fishing damage or remove lagoon corals community and stakeholders of the fishing Banning of Sand Mining Surveillance and Protection of including the creation of ski lanes and industry. Transforming this downward spiral Marine Resources: swimming areas, of unsustainable practice a new policy is Sand mining has been banned and being developed. This includes better those involved have been compensated Close and effective surveillance is ● Guidelines to be developed to prohibit enforcement of existing laws, reorientation and offered training for other jobs being carried out by the National removal of coral unless they are of local fishing to the deeper waters and Results of monitoring of ex-sand Coast Guard and the Fisheries replaced elsewhere in the lagoon to rejuvenation of the lagoons as protected mining sites carried out by Ministry of Protection Services. maintain sand supply, areas to re-establish habitats and breeding Environment and Ministry of Fisheries grounds. have shown that the ex-sand mining Alternative Fisheries ● Marine protected areas and marine sites are slowly recovering. parks to be established adjacent to A management strategy was developed places where coastal ecosystem has a Over the past few years, a number of Mangrove Propagation Program in 1996 to reduce the number of nets high ranking such as Belle-Mare. This measures to protect the marine ecosystems in operation will set a leading example for resource with a view to maintain sustained fishery Mangrove propagation program A package of incentives is proposed to production, and development have been taken (See Box 5.5). ongoing since 1992 for the net owners and fishermen to enhancement of marine habitats. surrender licenses and nets voluntarily ● Removal of coral rubble from beaches 98 to be stopped. 99

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Opening of Fisheries Training and the Fisheries and Marine Resources Act Conservation of Islets Extension Centre. 1998. The main objective of setting up the ● Proposed short and long-term MPA’s is to protect and conserve its habitats, Mauritius is surrounded by 49 islets. Some remedial measures for restoration and The Fisheries Training and Extension Centre which are ideal nursery ground for juvenile have very rare flora and fauna while others protection of the islets, at Point aux Sables is pivotal to the fish. such as Ile de La Passe and Ile Plate have development of the fisheries sector which historical importance. Action is being taken ● Strategic and operational management will help in capacity building of a new Coral Reef Monitoring to conserve them against the increasing plans for 16 islets, and generation of fishers with intensive threat of degradation arsing from neglectful knowledge in conservation of marine Coral reefs are among the most important development. (See Box 5.6) ● Non conflicting multiple uses of some environment and sustainable use of the and extensive ecosystems in SIDS and of the islets for conservation, resources. without reefs most of the beaches in the education and research, recreation and tropics would not exist. Under the Indian Box 5.6 ecotourism through proper zoning and Ocean Commission (IOC), a Coral reef Action to conserve the islets management plan. Proclamation of Two Marine Parks monitoring project was initiated and is on- going. The overall objective of the project is The challenge Islets National Park. A major step to safeguard marine ecosystem to contribute to the conservation and has been the proclamation of two marine sustainable management of coral reefs in the Prevailing deterioration of biodiversity ● Proclamation of the « Islets National parks at Balaclava and Blue Bay in October Western Ocean Region by providing decision of several important islets has been Park » comprising of the following 1997 as part of the Environment Investment makers in the region with reliable data on the focus of new policies and actions islets : Pigeon Rock, Ile D’Ambre, I’le projects and a long term monitoring program reefs dynamics and evolution over a period to conserve these important elements Aux Flammants, Rocher des Oiseaux, is under way for their management. To of time. of natural resources which are part of Ile aux Fouquets, Ile aux Vacoas and Ile prevent poaching in the Blue Bay Marine Park the global heritage, scientific research aux Oiseaux on 5th June 2004 (World and protect the rich biodiversity therein a Environment Impact Assessment and have potential for eco-tourism. Environment Day), special unit, the Blue Bay Marine Park Patrol, Pilot work is being carried out on has been set up in 2004 consisting of officers Environment impact assessment encourages Round Island, Ile aux Aigrettes, Ile aux ● The Mauritius Wildlife Foundation of the Ministry of Fisheries, the National promoters to take into consideration Vacoas, Flat Island, among others. The actively involved in the restoration of Coast Guard and the Police de environmental issues at the stage of principal problems arise from invasive Ile Aux Aigrettes and Round Island for L’Environnement. A Visitor’s centre was conception and planning. It also stimulates alien species and from pollution from conservation research, training and inaugurated on the 5th June 2004 to create developers to compare alternative unregulated use of the islets by the eco-tourism, and awareness and sensitize visitors about the technologies and adopt pollution prevention local population and tourists causing need for protection of the existing species. and control strategies. Many coastal activities damage and leaving waste. ● Regular cleaning of islets effected by such as hotels, dredging, building of walls and NPCS, NCG and Ministry of Fishing Reserves other hard structures are now regulated Progress Environment. through the EIA mechanism. Task force set up 2001: Six fishing reserves have been proclaimed as Marine Protected Areas in June 2000 under ● Assessed the causes and extent of 100 degradation, 101

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Conservation Zone at Virginia-First of Its Stakeholders Kind Box 5.7 Box 5.8 ● Ministry of Environment and NDU Functions of the ICZM Division Objectives of ICZM Committee The coastlines of islands are one of their ● National Park Conservation Service finest natural resources and part of the global ● Beach Authority ● Develop and implement an integrated ● Develop an integrated management heritage. Economic and social development ● Mauritius Wildlife Foundation (NGO) coastal zone management plan, plan, of the past has adversely affected many of the ● SIT Land Holdings natural features and as a result many species ● Access and monitor coastal resources ● Coordinate regional and international Objectives of native flora and fauna have become including wetlands, projects, extinct, threatened or endangered. ● Restoration of the site through planting of indigenous and endemic ● Control of beach erosion, ● Monitor coastal water quality and However for the past decade, there has been species, coastal resources including wetlands, a growing awareness and willingness to ● Protection of last remnants of ● Islets and outer islands management, protect land and sea habitats. Provisions have natural areas from encroachment by ● Conduct and recommend studies on been made in the National Development development projects including ● Develop guideline for coastal Beach Erosion and propose measures Strategy and the Outline Schemes to urbanisation, construction, and for its control, designate conservation zones. The Ministry ● To enhance coastal biodiversity of Environment and NDU is of the view that conservation, and ● Identification and mapping of ● Make recommendations for the ● it is urgent to start a conservation project on To enhance capacity building and Environment Sensitive Areas (ESAs). upgrading of recreational facilities, involve community participation in the littoral so as to preserve the natural habitat restoration works. scenery. A new policy of conservation is ● Coordinate the management of islets being established with the demonstration ICZM Unit within Department of The ICZM Committee and outer islands, projects focused on the areas of special Environment natural beauty. The first such zone is in the Following the creation of the ICZM Division, ● Make recommendations on guidelines area of Virginia found in the southern part of In order to manage the coastal zone in an the ICZM Committee has been set up at the for coastal construction, Mauritius. integrated and holistic manner, the Ministry Ministry of Environment in the year 2003 of Environment has recently, in accordance under section 50 of the EPA 2002. This ● Propose oil spill contingency planning with the recommendation of the National committee involves all the governmental and sensitivity mapping, and Environment Strategy (2000-2010), set up an Institutions as well as NGO’s, parastatals and Integrated Coastal Zone Management private organisations which are important ● Generally make recommendations to Division within the Department of stakeholders of the coastal zone the Minister on the Management and Environment. It is expected that this body (See Box 5.8). protection of the coastal zone. will play a key role in coordinating the various stakeholders in coastal zone planning and management. To reinforce this division the project for the creation of an ICZM framework has already been initiated 102 103 Virginia (See Box 5.7).

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The Way Ahead information systems are essential. Mauritius being dependent on tourism as an example the conflict between hotel and important source of income is considering public caused by the reduction of public Creating a balance in areas of conflicting Key Strategies to address the oceans and the implementation of a Blue Flag program beaches space. In regions where there interest is a major aspect of the future coastal management challenges for its beaches.To maintain a privileged place are hotels or extensive bungalow development in policy and management of developments, people have to walk long the coastal zone. The MOE in accordance Government has identified some key in the highly competitive, luxury tourism distances to find access to the beach.The with the recommendations of the NES has strategies to address the oceans and coastal market, a pristine coastal zone will be set up an ICZM Division within the management challenges namely: essential. A Blue Flag initiative in Mauritius problem becomes acute when it Department of Environment. could possibly serve as one measure of the concerns the passage of fishermen from ● Land based pollution control and solid The DOE has the task of coordinating the success of the overall integrated coastal zone their residence to the sea. actions of different ministries responsible for waste management, management efforts. the coastal zone. These agencies in the ● Promotion of sustainable tourism and coastal zone mainly through the ecotourism, Environmental Impact Assessment process ● Promotion of offshore fishing, Resolving Conflicting Pressures on the (Part IV of EPA) pending the preparation of ● Contingency planning for oil spill, Coastal Zone the ICZM plan. ● Enhancement and establishment of Marine Protected Areas, Creating a balance in areas of conflicting Integrated Coastal Zone Management ● Mitigating impacts of climate change, Plan ● Mangrove and coral reef management interests is a major aspect of the future and protection, development in policy and management. The 1991 State of Environment Report ● Coastal erosion control and Different coastal uses often conflict with or recognised the need for a more rehabilitation, adversely affect each other. The two major ● Selective mariculture development, comprehensive approach to coastal zone types of conflicts related to coastal resources planning in Mauritius, in the form of an ● Strengthening the management, are: Integrated coastal Zone Management Plan to monitoring, control and surveillance address the increasing incidence of coastal capacity, and problems, resource use conflicts and the ● Control of motorised boats, particularly ● Conflicts among users over the use of increased understanding of the intricate water scooters. the coastal areas, and nature of the coastal environment. Blue Flag Status ● Conflicts among government agencies Professional and Technical Development that administer programs related to the The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches with coastal zone. Although an ICZM Division has been created good environmental management. Beaches within the Department of Environment, the have to meet 27 criteria covering water staff of the ICZM Division need to be quality, beach management, safety services Some typical manifestations of conflicts reinforced to establish the required and facilities, environmental education and among users of the coastal zone of Mauritius expertise.Training needs to be established to information.With more than 2750 beaches in are: sustain the skills and numbers of experts to 24 countries participating, the Blue Flag is a cover the country as a whole at national level well recognised and respected eco-label in ● Competition for coastal space, and and local levels. Europe. It is a symbol of high environmental standards as well as good sanitary and safety Foreign technical expertise will continue to facilities at the beach. ● Effects of one use such as hotel development on another use. For 104 be required and improvements in data and 105

C HAPTER 5 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 5. Coastal and Marine Resources A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● ● ● Sustainable use of Integrated beach management policy with Training and development of professional and lagoon and marine setback control on structural intrusion, technical staff beach fill and beach cleaning. zones ● Review of carrying capacity for further tourist ● Development of deep sea fishing ● Conservation of lagoon fish stock development protection and promotion of coral ● Development, surveillance and protection of growth. marine resources for commercial fishing etc ● Extending the Exclusive Economic Zone under UNCLOS

● ● Better management of ● Mapping most vulnerable places Promoting quality standards for existing the coastal zone ● Implementation of EIA as a management developments not subject to EIA tool ● Implementing set back and coastal management policy ● Developing professional management systems

● Reducing damage to ● Ban on sand mining with compensation ● Development of public private partnership for natural resources and and retraining for workers in deep sea cost-effective beach conservation building on fishing promoting results from pilot studies conservation ● Conservation of islets ● SIDS-SIDS partnership in beach management ● Beach nourishment pilot projects technology ● New conservation areas ● National environmental education and awareness programme

● Improving water ● Statutory controls on river and marine ● Cleaner vessel management programme quality and beach pollutants ● Further development of response to marine conservation. oil spills ● Implementation of national sewerage programme

● Promoting monitoring, ● External technical assistance for beach ● Re-enforcing international network on R & D evaluation and assessment through SIDS-SIDS links research. ● Extension of R & D programme for ● Extension of monitoring and evaluation to biodiversity conservation linked with Rodrigues and the outer islands training and eco-tourism ● Improving ecological models of intervention

106

C HAPTER 5 Tourism Resources Progress ● 1.5% increase in employment,

The Challenges Enhancing Resilience ● 3.0% increase in total room capacity, Despite the unfavourable international environment characterised by economic ● No.of bedplaces for year 2003:19,727,and ourism has contributed much to the Tourism Business Hub in the region, offering sluggishness in major source markets, wars ● Tourist arrivals expected to be 710 000 development of Small Island high quality at a competitive price. But the and terrorist attacks and the recent SARS in 2004, compared to 702 000 in 2003 Tdeveloping States and based on the world competition is fierce and Mauritius has disease, the Mauritius tourism sector has value of an increasingly scarce natural to continue to offer world-class services to shown continued resilience by maintaining resource on global term, if sustained will justify the long haul flights. The shocks of positive growth rate in tourist arrivals and Policies, Plans and Projects continue to be very important for their global terrorism, SARS and the prospects of gross receipts in the past decade. future growth. The tourism sector has climate change and sea level rise present Tourism is holding its growth in Mauritius at This resilience has been achieved by: evolved as the third pillar of our economy major challenges to this sector. a time when price for sugar is falling and our and contributes significantly to the economic textile industry is facing competition with (i) maximising low- impact, high-spending growth and development, mainly in terms of The main challenge faced by the Mauritian emerging market operators like Bangladesh, tourism policy; employment and export earnings. tourist industry is to avoid excess capacity Madagascar, China, Kenya and Sri Lanka. Developing tourism as a robust and vibrant and degradation of the quality of the tourist (ii) promoting high quality standards for an However, if not properly planned and industry has always been a top priority of the label. The main policy is to promote quality exclusive destination managed, tourism could significantly degrade Government agenda. Much effort is being within an agreed carrying capacity and the environment through pressures on the directed by all stakeholders to realise the explore further elements in the tourist (iii) emphasising safety and security of the coastal and marine ecosystem on which it is vision of Mauritius to becoming the top experience. destination- the issue thus provides a so dependent. competitive edge. The main challenge faced by the Mauritian (iv) maintaining low health risks and sound tourist industry is to avoid excess capacity health services. and degradation of the quality of the tourist label. The main policy is to promote quality (v) increasing competitive long hand airfares from a wide range of countries within an agreed carrying capacity. (e.g. UK, France, Germany, Australia, Emirates, India, Russia, South Africa, Surveys have shown that the main reason for USA, etc.) visiting Mauritius is for beach holidays, so that the pressure of this growth is felt almost entirely in the coastal areas. With a view to Box 6.1 maintaining Mauritius as an attractive and Resilience in tourism facts under desirable tourist destination and to address pressure from global threats the above considerations, several policies and (2003/4) strategic plans for tourism development have been prepared (See Box 6.2). ● 35% increase in gross receipts, 108 109

C HAPTER 6 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Moving on from the strategic vision of the Tw o of the priority development projects identified under the TDP are: Box 6.2 later 1990s a national tourism development Tourism Vision for 2020 plan was prepared (See Box 6.3) ● Grand Baie Waterfront Revitalisation of Grand Baie is one of the major goals of the Government. A continued and ● A scenario document based on long- concentrated effort is required to improve and maintain a physical setting which is visually term policy, anticipating a continuing Box 6.3 interesting, distinctive, comfortable and inviting for tourists and local residents, to maintain growth in net tourist receipts, but with Tourism Development Plan Grand Baie's place on the tourist map, (See Box 6.4). a restriction on growth of tourist development, and therefore on the ● Provides a twenty year vision which Box 6.4 number of arrivals. Sustainable development for a tourist resort

-foresees growth of tourist industry Revitalising Facilities Infrastructure Protection of Environment Strategy - ensures that environmental and social ● development of a waterfront ● upgrading of road network ● rehabilitation of the lagoon ● Set sustainable growth rates, issues are addressed to the benefit of ● coastal walkway ● embellishment of the village the people of Mauritius. ● a floating casino ● community development ● Focus development in the three ● a marina ● Links to sugar museum, tourist zones (East, West and South), Action Plan botanical garden, ecotourist ● while reducing development pressure A five-year action programme that will islets. in the northern tourist zone, provide a framework for the implementation of the first stage of the ● Trou d'Eau Douce Community Action ● Minimise further new built Tourism Development Plan, Plan ● To enable the local community to development on the beaches, Another approach to development is being realise an income from their natural ● The Plan proposes: tried in different part of Mauritius with an and cultural heritage assets through ● Protect tourism’s natural environment emphasis on community particpiation (See tourism resources, - $700 m of private sector investments Box 6.5) in tourist accommodation, tourist Features ● Prevent overbuilding of hotels and attractions, and ancillary facilities proliferation of informal visitor - $25 m of public sector investment in Box 6.5 ● La Pelouse Tourism Centre to provide accommodation, tourism support programmes (e.g. Trou D’Eau Douce Community Action plan tourist information, roads, car parking, water and sewage Enhancing natural resources for tourism ● Diversify into ecotourism with the schemes) ● Facilities for guides/boat trip sales, sensitive use of Rodrigues and outer - $18m on infrastructure and critical ● Objectives handicraft market, islands, and tourism product improvements, diversification and innovations To create an environment for visitors ● Cafe/restaurant and an area for events, ● Develop within the region multi stop - $7m for human resource and local residents which generates an tourism to attract demand from those development/social projects and ambiance reflecting the areas existing ● Bassin Belle Isle Harbour for a new fish not warranting only beach tourism. environmental management support. historic, cultural and landscape character landing stage, 110 111

C HAPTER 6 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Eco-tourism Offshore Islets ● Main Street Enhancement with new ● To create better awareness among the pavements, well designed, population of the actions initiated in Eco-tourism, linking areas of high ecological Many of the islets around Mauritius, are the tourism industry to minimize the value to low-impact tourism, may present tourist attractions, but also need to be ● Street furniture and landscaping, and effects on the environment caused by important and environmentally sustainable preserved. It has been observed that the the operations of hotels and the other opportunities for tourism development in biodiversity of several important islets have ● A coastal trail for the linkage of Bassin tourism-related activities, and SIDS. Eco tourism includes visits to national deteriorated.A task force was set up in 2001 Belle Isle Harbour and La Pelouse parks, wildlife refuges, botanical gardens and under the NPCS to assess the causes and Centre. ● To encourage hotels and other islets to see ecological projects in progress, extent of degradation and to propose short stakeholders in the tourism sector to diversifying the tourist product and meeting and long-term remedial measures for work towards attaining the the educational interests of tourists. restoration and protection of the islets. The Tourism Environment Charter appropriate environment certification task force recommended the creation of an standards. Box 6.7 Islet national Park comprising of 16 islets and To promote high standards in tourist facilities Chamarel Integrated Development a comprehensive long term planning and and to respond to the changing needs of Project management of the islets for their optimal clients the Association des Hoteliers et utilisation. Certain islets with high ecological This project was initiated with a view Restaurateurs de L’Ile Maurice (AHRIM) have value would be devoted solely to to involving local people in small produced a charter partly funded by the tourism projects that would conservation whereas other could be used National Environment Fund and UNDP (See economically be beneficial to them. for eco-tourism and recreational activities. Box 6.6) The project comprises training on handicraft, table d'hôte, nature trail, Green Ceiling physical upliftment, embellishment of the village, construction of a handicraft Box 6.6 centre and an amphitheatre and eco- Due to the environmental vulnerability of the Tourism Environment Charter tourism activities. So far the project island, the country has to place a “Green” has introduced: ceiling to restrict the maximum number of Objectives hotels to be constructed on the island and ● ● Tw o restaurants To make the protection of the Promoting Eco-tourism more particularly, to reduce the number of environment an integral part of the hotels near the sea. The TDP proposes that ● A craft shop at Indian Resorts Hotel as day-to-day management of hotels and a sale outlet for craft workers of Mauritius should achieve certified "Green the other operations of the tourism Golf Development Strategy Chamarel destination" status by the year 2020. This will industry, involve, eliminating unsustainable To diversify the Mauritian product, a study ● Organic farming and eco-tourism environmental practices throughout the guide projects have been funded by ● To show the commitment of hoteliers was carried out in 2002 on the strategy for island, in hotels, businesses and the local theUNDP/GEF. and the other stakeholders of the future golf course development on the island. community. tourism industry to bring about The study confirmed the potential of ● Private nature trail horse riding and sustainable tourism development, Mauritius as a golf destination and has Adventure Park. 112 provided a golf map for its development. 113

C HAPTER 6 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Diversification of Tourist Market protect against importing or spreading undertaken to assess training needs for the ● Diversify into niche markets for eco- infectious diseases (During the SARS tourism sector. National parks are being tourism, and educational and cultural National tourism policy will continue with epidemic flights from at risk sources to supported with trained technical guides for activities involving more the local selective tourism, targeting at niche markets. Mauritius were cancelled; all visitors are visitors. community, The marketing strategy has been geared checked against the risk of importing towards creating and sustaining an image of malaria and air cabins are sprayed to Marketing Strategy ● Develop Mauritius as a destination for excellence. Future tourism policy will eliminate any mosquitoes being carried). business tourism and to support business include: The overall aim is to create a 'Destination ventures in other sectors, and Investment Facilities and Incentives Mauritius' brand logo and slogan, which must ● Focus on scheduled air-links, be an integral component of competitive ● Maintaining and continually upgrading the Incentives are given to investors in hotel projects. positioning for both destinations and high standards achieved (e.g. future ● Better land use, The Ministry of Tourism also encourages commercial enterprises. It includes more development of the EU Blue Flag investment in tourism related projects such as options for Rodrigues and the outer islands schemes for beaches is being ● Integrating of hotel and leisure leisure parks, aquaparks and aquariums. In 2004 which are less developed and offer more considered). development projects, which cover private investment mainly in the hotel sector is opportunities for eco-tourism and less tourist activities and environmental expected to be over Rs 5, 000 million (US$ 175m) densely populated parts of the country. improvements outside premises, an increase of 6% on the previous year. To attract investment in quality leisure The Way Ahead ● Diversifying the tourists to include projects, Government has extended the historical, cultural, educational and Development Certificate Scheme to tourist Future tourism development will have to nature-based activities, celebrity projects. This provides a range of financial take account of the limits of carrying marketing, honeymoons and weddings, incentives such as Corporate tax of 15% capacity, the demands on infrastructure such golf and diving, instead of 30%; dividends received by as roads, water, energy and sanitation the shareholders are Income Tax free; remission impact on the natural asset of the island that ● Improving local recreational needs of customs duty is granted subject to the have made the country a top tourist resort. through the provision of public areas in approval of the Ministry of Finance; there is integrated projects and quality amenities The direction of policy is towards sustainable free repatriation of invested capital, profit Promoting Haut de Gamme Hotel on public beaches, development of the sector integrating and dividends subject to approval by the environmental protection and the added Bank of Mauritius; term loans and overdrafts ● More links with other sectors such as value of a variety of natural, social and at preferential rates from Commercial and handicrafts, agricultural products, sports, cultural assets. Net gains will derive from Development Banks in Mauritius. etc, increasing investment in quality.

● Regulating the informal or non-hotel Capacity Building This will involve: sector, and ● The continued pursuit of excellence and A hotel and catering school operates in resilience to market trends, ● Maintaining safe health status of the Mauritius.This provides specialist support to 114 country by vigilant health surveillance to the tourist industry. A study is being ● Continued focus on scheduled services, 115

C HAPTER 6 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 6.Tourism A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● ● Responding to ● Focus on quality Continued pursuit of excellence global competition ● Diversifying into new forms of ● Development of Mauritius destination tourism which build on the natural brand image assets of the country ● Extending the global range of direct ● Managing within the carrying flight airlines serving the country capacity

● ● Responding to ● Increasing security in line with Maintaining vigilance global threats of: international standards ● Developing epidemiological surveillance -terrorism ● Reinforcing health surveillance and ● Networking with international expert -SARS and other precautionary measures centres health threats ● Long term locational planning to ● Monitoring and evaluation of health -Climate change reduce exposure of tourist status and sea level rise infrastructure on the coast. ● Development of beach health standards; the Blue Flag scheme

● Expanding the ● Development of eco-tourism, ● Further integrated resort development tourist package education and cultural packages ● Regional linked packages ● Resort and community ● More options with Rodrigues and the improvement projects outer-islands

● Coping within the ● Restriction on further hotel ● Capping the level of arrivals carrying capacity of development ● Further development and enforcement the country ● Safety regulation of water sports of standards ● Restriction on air travel ● Promoting tourist environmental partnership

● Enhancing the ● Managed use of national parks ● Further development of educational natural resources ● Environmental charter for tourists options of the country ● Professional training and accreditation with low impact for technical guides tourism

116

C HAPTER 6 Freshwater Management Access to freshwater is also complicated by infiltrate the soil. Climate change will seasonal and geographical variability in therefore represent an additional stress on The Challenges rainfall and the different climatic areas of the availability of freshwater. Mauritius.There is a wide variation of rainfall across the island ; 4000 mm in the super- Long-term Pressure on Water Resources Pressure on Water Resources humid zone on the central plateau, about ● 110 used for potable water, 1500 mm on the eastern coastal plain and The high population density of Mauritius, the carcity of freshwater is a common only abou 800 mm on the leeward north- heavy use of water for irrigation and the problem in SIDS. Water is a vital ● 112 for industries, and western coastal plain. Most of the rainfall increasing demands from industry and element for development, for occurs in the upland areas and is heaviest and tourism, place growing stress on water S ● residential use, for agriculture and industry. 128 for agriculture most frequent and prolonged during the resources. As SIDS develop demand for water increases 11 Man made reservoirs; Gross months of December to April, after which The total consolidated demand which is but the long term supply will be constrained capacity: 92.87 Mm3. Mauritius experiences periods of water presently of the order of 260, 000 m3 (0.26 by external factors such as climate change shortages. These dry spells and periodic Mm3 ) per day is forecasted to reach 266, and sea level rise placing further pressure on droughts in Mauritius force water rationing 000 m3/day (0.266 Mm3 ) by the end of water management. But because of its topography and tropical especially in coastal areas, such as the north Financial Year 2004/2005 and 307, 500 m3 by location Mauritius suffers from rapid run off of the main island which also has a the year 2020. According to National Mauritius has a high annual rainfall of 3,900 and evaporation and there is little natural concentration of heavy users in agriculture Environmental Acton Plan (NEAP), if more mm3 on average. It has a well developed water storage since 90% of the rain water is and tourism sectors and is furthest from the effective management is not introduced, network supply with many river sources, lost (see Figure 7.1) However the rainfall and main reservoirs. demand threatens to outstrip supply within bore holes and aquifers and reservoirs with a rock formation means that aquifers recharge 50 years. capacity of nearly 100 million cubic metres. each year. Impact of Climate Change on the Hydrological Cycle Table 7.1 shows the present water utilization. A large proportion of water (48 %) is used Box 7.1 SIDS are extremely vulnerable to climate for irrigation. Without improvement in Water resources change. The projected sea level rise will agricultural efficiency predicted increasing increase salt water intrusion into land demand will place more stress on the water Mauritius has a well developed sources of freshwater and climate change is resources in the short and medium network of water sources including: also expected to reduce water supply. The hydrological cycle is affected by the climate 5 main aquifers system as changes in climate result in 25 major river basins changes in the basic climate elements, such as 21 minor river basins rainfall and temperature. This will in turn 350 boreholes (with annual water affect how much water can be captured. Several models suggest than downpours will mobilization: 514 Mm3 ) of which become more intense. This will increase 118 runoff while reducing the ability of water to 119

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Ta b le 7.1

Water Utilisation (Million Cubic Metres per year)

Purpose Surface Water Ground Total % River run offtakes Storage Water

Domestic, Industrial & Tourism 38 (1) 72 114 224 22

Industrial 1 (Private boreholes) 10 10

Agricultural 370 97 (2) 24 491 48

Hydropower 131 174 305 30

Overall Utilisation 539 343 148 1030 100

Total water mobilization 514 275 148 937

1. Includes 25 Mm3 used for power generation at Reduit H.E.P.S (Hydroelectric Power Station) These conditions of water stress and scarcity sanitation and in certain areas, premises with 2. Includes 30 Mm3 used for power generation at Tamarind Falls and Magenta H.E. P.S 3. Includes 39 Mm3 used twice(14 Mm3 at Le Val and Ferney and 24 Mm3 at Tamarind Falls and Magenta H .E. P. S restrict economic and social development only intermittent supplies. (See Table 3) and pose a serious overall challenge for There are thus 180, 000 people in Mauritius Hydroelectricity uses 305 Mm3 water (defined as a supply of less than 1 700 m3 water management. In addition there remain without drinking water and flush sanitation annually without recycling (See Table 2). /person /year and 1000 m3/person/year, problems of uneven distribution for water. inside their houses, and 168,000 people who Tw enty years ago, hydropower was a major respectively(UNDP 19981). By 2040, total Whilst the current water services, in have problems of interrupted supply. In component of electricity production in demand for water is projected at 1 200 Mm3 principle, cover the whole country, there are addition there is poor or variable quality of Mauritius. In the year 2003, hydroelectricity per year. This is in excess of projected certain existing inequalities in provision, drinking water supply in remoter places such generated about 117.8 GWh or 6 % of the supplies and close to the utilizable renewable including premises with no piped water as Rodrigues and the outer islands. total production for the year.The generation freshwater potential of 1 300 Mm3 per year. inside the premises for drinking and for flush of hydroelectricity is competing with other Though the potential yield from existing uses for water..The trade-off in obtaining 305 water sources is achieved, this would still Ta b le 7.2 Mm3 of water annually is losing 117.8 GWh leave the country in water stress by UN of energy needs to be re-assessed. standards. Water Utilisation (Million Cubic Metres per year)

Distribution Total Mauritius- In Water Stress and Water 119 5200 ● Population having access to piped drinking water within their premises Scarcity (99.6%) 102 0000 ● Population having piped drinking water inside their houses (85%) The present usable freshwater potential has 180 000 ● Population having piped drinking water outside their houses been estimated at 1 300 Mm3 per year, (15%) 1032 000 ● Population having uninterrupted supply equivalent to 1 083 m3 /person/year, which (86%) puts Mauritius within the class of countries ● Population having interrupted supply 168 000 Africa Environment Outlook. Past, Present and future (14%) 120 suffering water stress and water scarcity perspectives. UNEP 2002. 121

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE In order to sustain economic development ● The Water Resources Unit worked out Maintenance of Network ● 83 Km of pipelines is being relaid as it is and improve quality of life, water an integral plan for harnessing additional at insufficient depth to withstand the management will become an increasing water resources to meet the water 2. Rehabilitation of existing water present traffic load. challenge, made worse by climate change and requirements of the various sectors of infrastructure sea level rise. Moreover, droughts are already the economy up to the year 2040. 4. Reduction of Unaccounted for a continual challenge for the provision of Development of ground water, ● Existing as storage dams, feeder canals water water in parts of the country. Inadequate and construction of run-off-river diversion etc have been rehabilitated, insufficient storage facilities, outdated schemes and a number of storage dams, ● CWA has embarked on an aggressive infrastructure and leakage, remain as ● constraints for the development of this ● Contrustruction of the Midlands Dam Seven dams are being rehabilitated to project for the reduction of UFW and sector. with a capacity of 25.5 Mm completed in enhance their safety and useful life and to aims to reduce the level of non- 2002 and recent extensions minimize seepage losses, revenue water to 25 % of the volume Although water supply networks have been to the La Nicoliere Water Treatment throughput by 2007. extended they are not expected to fully meet Plant works cater for the water needs in ● The largest storage dam for drinking the forecast increasing demands for water. the North of the island, water was completely rehabilitated in Research There will be a need for substantial 2000. Rehabilitation of La Nicoliere investment in the rehabilitation and renewal reservoir, the Municipal dyke and Riche 5. Hydrological Studies are being of old distribution mains in towns and for en Eau Dam is in progress, undertaken to: some provision of new resources, treatment capacity, storage facilities and water mains to ● The Municipal Dyke for water for the ● Increase development of groundwater provide an acceptable year round service to capital city was rehabilitated in 2003 and potential, all population particularly those at the extremities of the current system, in the east two feeder canals in 2002 to 2003. and west of the island and to properties on ● Increase the number of boreholes to higher ground. 3. Replacement of old and obsolete reduce the problem of areas in water potable water infrastructure stress, and Progress ● Old and obsolete drinking water ● To ensure the development guidelines The Midlands dam There has been considerable improvement in infrastructure is being replaced and within the vicinity of boreholes are water supply in the last decade and there are ● The water needs for development in rhe provides more treatment capacity, a strictly adhered so as to harness many plans for the future to improve water central part of the island are expected to better distribution network and better groundwater in a sustainable manner. management. be met with the doubling water quality, of the treatment capacity at La Marie 6. Hydrographic Survey Treatment Works, and Progress in Water Management ● Pipelines less than 30 years old are ● ● Four other storage dams are planned to replaced . Old ones having low capacity A hydrographic survey has been Increasing Storage be constructed by 2020 which will cater and insufficient cover are replaced if undertaken of four storage reservoirs to 1. Construction of run-off diversion for the water needs in different found necessary, and determine their effective storage capacity schemes and extra storage dams regions of Mauritius. and to make better use of them, 122 123

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Increase Supply Mauritius but covers only 50% of the In addition, Health Quality and Agricultural in Sugar Cane and their impact on Water water in the public sector.Water sources Water Quality Laboratories and the National Quality”, MSIRI reported in April 2001 that 7. Elimination of Blackspot Areas on private land is not controlled Environmental Laboratory which are all agrochemicals used in sugar cane plantations centrally. A programme to increase involved in monitoring of pollutants in water do not represent any risk to human health ● Prior to 1995, the definition of Blackspot water metering is under way This will have been set up. and that the general perception on pollution areas, were those localities which span over five financial years starting caused by agrochemicals is totally received less than four hours supply daily. 2004 through 2008, when non revenue An ongoing implementation of a water unfounded.However, the island of Mauritius being volcanic in nature, its geology is By 1995 some 110 such localities water will be brought down from the quality monitoring programme for surface, characterised by highly fissured lava with classified as Blackspot areas had their present 50% to 25 %. ground and wastewater is being carried out relatively high permeability. Hence leachates supply improved At present, less than ten by the CWA and WRU since 1993 for several easily find its way into our water bodies in hours daily water supply is the exception. water courses and for over hundred different case absorption pits are not well located. But 168,000 people have interrupted Water Quality sampling stations over the island. Although water supply. the majority of major watercourses on the The major sources of water contamination Treatment of Water island are routinely monitored, the main are summarized in Box 7.3. Increase Efficiency of Use focus is for watercourses where industrial Ground water is chlorinated prior to discharges are made to those rivers that are 8. Better irrigation Techniques injection in the distribution system. Surface harnessed for abstraction for potable water. Box 7.3 raw water is treated at six water treatment Sources of contamination of water ● More efficient methods of irrigation are plants having a total treatment capacity of Threats to Freshwater Resources resources now being adopted, 248,000 m3day.Treatment capacity which 3 stood at 168 000 m in 1983 has been The major areas for environmental and Industrial Effluent and Domestic 3 ● Area under surface irrigation and extended to 248 000 m by end 2003. With public health concern are those of pollution Sewage overhead irrigation are being greatly the commissioning of the La Marie Treatment of the surface water, groundwater and reduced by using overhead and drip Plant by mid 2005, total treatment capacity lagoons by industrial waste water, domestic ● Sewerage systems are confined to irrigation respectively, and will be of the order of 308 000 m3. waste, agricultural and urban runoffs. The parts of Port-Louis and Plaines rate of application of fertilisers in Mauritius is Wilhems districts only, ● The present area under irrigation is Monitoring of Water Quality very high. Since 57 % of our domestic water about 21, 000 ha and same is expected to comes from groundwater resources, the ● Presently only 21 % of the whole island increase to about 33,000 in 2050. Tw o water quality laboratories have been set impacts of agrochemical need to be given is sewered.The remaining 79 % either disposed of their liquid waste in the However, the total water requirement is up to monitor drinking water samples to serious consideration. absorption pits or via septic tanks.The expected to remain the same as being ensure compliance with the national and island of Mauritius being volcanic in presently utilized with the introduction international standards and to monitor the However, several reports from the MSRI nature, its geology is characterised by indicate that although major herbicides may of more efficient methods of irrigation. quality of raw water resources and trade highly fissured lava with relatively high be detected in surface waters and ground effluents discharged into aquifers and permeability. Hence leachates easily waters, they rarely exceed the 9.Water Metering. watercourses.A map polluting industries has find its way into our water bodies in recommended permissible limits set by the been produced and action taken to protect case absorption pits are not well USEPA. Following a study on “Agrochemicals 124 ● Metering water has been started in water quality. located, 125

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE population was connected to a sewer, yet by extension of wastewater facilities in the ● Environment Protection (Standards for ● Where sewerage systems exist, illegal 2000 the proportion has increased to 20.6 % country. The SPL was guided need by the Effluent Discharge) Regulations 2003, connections between the storm and an increase of only 16, 550 properties over need to achieve the following objectives: sewerage systems and direct leakage 10 years. ● Environment Protection (Standards for cause contamination of adjacent ● Halt and reverse the trend of wastewater Effluent Discharge into the Ocean watercourses, and NEAP 1 recognised these threats to water pollution on the island and its coastal Regulations 2003), ● Un-sewered industries discharge quality and the National Sewerage Master zone, effluent directly to surface water often Plan was prepared in 1994 which provides a ● Environment Protection (Effluent complete scheme for the development of with little or no wastewater ● Improve health and sanitary conditions of Discharge Permit) Regulations 2003, and wastewater sector in Mauritius. The plan treatment. The sectors most polluting the population, and seeks to connect 50 % of the population to are the sugar industries and animal ● Industrial Efflent Discharge into the the public sewerage system by 2010/2012. food processing industries. ● Provide the technical, legal, institutional Public Sewer Regulation 2004. On completion of the NMSP most of the and financial framework necessary for existing effluent will be disposed of to sewer. sustainable development of the sector. Environmental Impact Assessment The NMSP identified nine priority projects Spills referred to as the National Sewerage Plan. Under the 2002 Environmental Protection Funding has been secured for several of the Institutional Reform In case of spills, under section 29 of the EPA projects namely Montagne Jacquot, Baie du Act all industrial, commercial and agricultural Act, it is stated that the pollutant must Tombeau, St Martin and Plaine Wilhems The Wastewater Management Authority has developments are required to conduct an prevent, eliminate or reduce the adverse sewerage projects been established as a corporate body under EIA to ensure no adverse impacts on the effects of the spill and restore the the WMA Act proclaimed on 31st August environment. Licenses depend on these environment to the state it was prior to the The NSMP target a 100% connection to the 2001. The WMA has the responsibility to assessments, environmental conditions being spill and under section 33 of the EPA Act, the sewerage system by the year 2030.The WMA maintain and manage all existing public met and approval given by all relevant pollutant must also bear all cost and is currently installing new sewerage systems wastewater systems, regulate construction of authorities. expenses incurred as a result of any clean up and constructing new sewerage treatment private sewers and more importantly to or removal operation. A case of diesel oil facilities in the Port Louis, Baie du tombeau, expand the new sewer network systems in The Way Ahead discharge was reported at Ebene River Plaines Wilhems and Grand-Baie areas. order to provide house connections to all where the polluter was instructed to restore properties domestic, commercial and Water is an increasingly scarce resource in the river at his own expense. Management of Wastewater industrial. Government has also entrusted to Mauritius. Development has brought Sector the WMA the overall responsibility for the increasing demand nearly outsripping the Waste Water Systems implementation of all projects under the increased capacity for supply.The country is in water stress and water scarcity by For an effective and efficient management of National Sewerage Plan. international standards. Better integrated Since the original sewerage systems were the Wastewater Sector, a Sector Policy water management is a priority both for installed in Port-Louis, Curepipe, Beau Bassin Letter was agreed in 1998 in the context of Water Quality Management demand and supply. and Rose-Hill at the beginning of the 1900, the implementation of the Environmental there has been little expansion, development Sewerage and Sanitation Project. The SPL The following standards have been or maintenance of the infrastructure. The reiterated government commitment to catch promulgated by the Ministry of Environment lack of progress is reflected in the Census up on the delays for the development and and NDU for environment protection: 126 results that show that in 1990, 19.9 % of the 127

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Reuse of Effluent Way Ahead ● Use of treated waste water for irrigation ● Reducing the cost for treatment of purposes, At present recycling of water is not a effluent, ● Mobilisation of additional water ● Optimization of the abstraction of water common practice in Mauritius. Only a few resources, ● Better demand management with greater from the environment, and hotels are using recycled water for irrigation. efficiency in use and the development of ● Construction of 5 dams up to horizon However, given that water is an increasingly recycled water for industrial and 2040, ● Consolidation of institutional and legal scarce resource in Mauritius, the reuse of frame work. agricultural use, effluent for agricultural needs to be ● Water demand management, promoted for selected crops and subject to ● Increasing public and corporate established use criteria. By making the most education and awareness, efficient use of effluent for irrigation it will be Major Projects 2003-2007 Ta b le 7. 3 Harness water resources in a sustainable manner. possible to utilize ground and surface water ● Better water quality especially in resources currently used for irrigation for remoter areas poorly served, Projects Details potable use and thereby defer some of the La Marie New Rapid Gravity Filter ● Cater for domestic needs of Plaine Wilhems and part of the south and Black River Districts. need to develop expensive new sources ● More qualified professionals in the water Plant. including new dam sites. sector, Identification and repairs of Invisible ● A feasibility study has been carried out to determine the best Leaks options to cater for the new demand and for improving water in Further Development ● Project team for detecting leaks on general in the Eastern area. performance related contract, and ● Detailed engineering studies are completed and the projects in different stages of procurement Plans are being made for: ● Enforcement of Environmental Effluent ● Master Plan For The ● The objective of the study is to equip the Authority with an Distribution Network updated model of its network from source to main supply points ● More control on the release of industrial Discharge Regulations. and actions required to be taken on a five year basis in order to effluents by an industrial permit system sustain potable water supply to the population and to all potable and systematic monitoring. water consumers up to year 2040.

Comprehensive industrial standards ● Production Meters and ● The project consists of the design and implementation of an need, Telemetry appropriate SCADA System meeting the requirement of the CWA for a Tele Surveillance system for pumping stations, service reservoirs, water treatment plants and nodes in the distribution ● More detailed standards for pollutants to network. protect water sources whilst ensuring that manufacturing sectors remain ● Re-Routing of pipelines ● CWA has reason to believe that certain vegetable growers and prone to pilferage and industrialists are resorting to pilferage. Substantial volumes of competitive, elimination of clandestine water are thus being illegally abstracted. connections ● To attend to above, CWA proposes to : ● Consolidating laws on Rivers and Canals ● Renewal of Trunk, Service and ● Act (dating back to 1863), Re-Route 15 km of pipelines prone to pilferage. Distribution mains and phasing out ● Setting up of Policy Unit to track down all illegal water users. of AC pipelines ● Setting up of Anti Faud Unit to track down all illegal water users ● Preparing a Water Resources Authority and better meter security practices so as to minimize tampering of meters. Act and a Water Act to provide for the Since out of 3,500 km of pipelines, some 13 % are above 30 years; integrated management of all water it is planned to: ● Access their conditions for replacement. 128 resources of the country, ● Replace a total of 83 Km of AC, GI and CI pipelines 129

C HAPTER 7 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 7. Freshwater management A Policy and Programme Progess Sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Water stress and ● Assessing needs ● Integrated water management water scarcity ● Increasing supply and storage ● Extending supply ● Managing demand

● Water for all ● Extending supply to remoter ● Improving plans and systems for areas and black spots remoter areas including Rodrugues and ● Reducing interrupted supply the outer islands

● Extending laboratories for better ● Improving water ● Reducing leaks testing of water quality quality ● Revised legislation and regulations for ● Reducing pollution of water sources better enforcement of controls on ● Extending and improving sewerage pollution and sewage treatment ● Water quality laboratory ● Agricultural Water Quality Laboratory ● Health Water Quality Laboratory

● Cost effectiveness ● Extending water metres and ● Water use audit of water use charges ● Education of public and corporate bodies

● Research and ● Hydrographic studies ● Studies for water recycling development ● Studies of water pollution ● Studies to tap into 90% of water not collected ● Review of total sector and public private partnership in water management ● Economic review of water management

● Professional and ● Training and development for ● Review of human resource needs and technical professional and technical staff promotion of professional development development at regional level, training, accreditation, standards, new syllabus

130

C HAPTER 7 ENERGY RESOURCES

The Challenges

imited or scarce indigenous compared to the 1,627 GWh energy commercial energy resources and consumed in 2003, representing a mean Ldifficulties in securing energy supplies annual growth of 6% over the next ten years. increase the many constraints in economic The transport sector is the largest and and social development of SIDS. Mauritius growing user of energy in the country with imports all its fossil fuels, which is the main resulting increases in air pollution. source of primary commercial energy. The cost, source and usage of energy have Progress become major concern for SIDS and warrants careful energy planning. In 2003, To date almost the entire population enjoys 77% of the total energy requirement was the benefits of a stable and continuous met from imported fuels, while the remaining electricity supply and 348,850 customers are 23% was supplied from indigenous sources, connected to the electricity grid. Although Energy Management Cooperatives is responsible for the imports hydro and bagasse principally. Programmes the country is regularly visited by tropical of all petroleum products. for expanding renewable energy sources are cyclones, electric power supply is restored The Ministry of Public Utilities is responsible Energy management covers energy supply not keeping pace with increasing demand. relatively quickly. For instance, after the for the design and implementation of energy and energy demand. Sectoral use of energy Energy management in SIDS must include passage of cyclone Dina in 2002, electricity policies and oversees the power utility, the (See Figures 8.2 & 8.3) is dominated by the increasing effiency of energy used as well as service was restored to 90% within 7 days Central Electricity Board (CEB). The latter growth in transport with its impact on air an examination of indigenous energy and to the entire island within 10 days. This under the CEB Act is empowered to carry pollution (See Figure 8.4). In the past, resources. capacity for resilience has been achieved by out development schemes with the objective emphasis has been on expanding and robust electrical system, which are cyclones of promoting, co-ordinating and improving maintaining supply and diversifying the Conscious of the strategic role energy plays resistant coupled with improved emergency the generation, transmission, distribution and sources of supply.The focus is now shifting to in economic development, Mauritius maintenance services. sale of electricity.With the publication of the promote more effective and efficient use of completed its National Rural Electrification first Integrated Energy Plan (2003 - 2012) for energy and the better management of the Programme in 1981, when Chamarel became Power generation in Mauritius is based on a the island, the CEB aims to guide Mauritius to demand side.There is significant opportunity the last of a long list of about 153 villages and diversity of fuels, a mix which has evolved a more stable electricity future and to for energy savings through conservation and housing estates to be electrified. However in with time; the biggest change over the recent contribute to economic growth and increased energy efficiency. In this line, the the recent years, electricity demand has risen years being a gradual shift from diesel to coal prosperity for the country. CEB is committed to continuing with sharply due to sustained economic growth and the increasing contribution of bagasse. customer forums and community and a general improvement in the standard of On the other hand, the State information programmes to encourage living. It is projected that the total electricity Trading Corporation (STC) under the aegis energy awareness. demand will increase to 2,690 GWh by 2012 132 of the Ministry of Commerce and 133

C HAPTER 8 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Energy in the Transport Sector

The pattern of use of energy has been changing in the past decades with increasing use for road and air transport.The transport sector is the heaviest energy consumer, accounting for 48% of total energy imports.Transportation and its subsequent demand and usage of energy have progressed dramatically over the past decades with the massive importation of Japanese

and European vehicles. The increase in vehicles is also associated with the increase in CO2 emissions, more traffic congestion and longer travel times. In 2003, for example, the fleet of motor vehicles stood at 276,371 compared to 180,884 in 1994, representing an increase of 35%.With the total road network of 2015 km, there are 137 vehicles for each kilometre of road, amounting to 7.2 meters of road per vehicle.

134 135

C HAPTER 8 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE From the early fifties up till now, electric Switching to Renewable Sources Hydro Hydroelectric ● 8 hydroelectric power plants ● Lack of natural sites with power generation has evolved remarkably power plants with a combined installed favourable topography for capacity of 59 MW. future hydro developments The history of electrical power generation and even today, electricity generation is ● But with the construction of Midlands Dam in 2002, from renewable sources in Mauritius dates provided by both utility (i.e. CEB) and non- hydroelectric production has utility (i.e. Independent Power Producers - been to some extent reduced back to the early years of the 20th century, ● 117.7 GWh electricity was when hydro power started to be harnessed. IPPs) sources. The sources that are being contributed from this sector in 2003 In the 1950’s, the first diesel generating sets tapped include solar power, wind power, were introduced, while sugar factories hydroelectric and biomass. The Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Biomass Bagasse ● Currently, 3 IPPs export ● ß There is the potential for 4 exported surplus of energy generated from electricity to the national grid additional coal-bagasse fired bagasse to the CEB grid. technology is being explored. However, on a year-round basis power plants in the near further investigation is required to assess the future. full potential of wind, solar and OTEC in OTEC ● Government is actively ● A Memorandum of Mauritius. Technology working on 2 initiatives for the Understanding has been signed application of this technology with the Government of India locally and the Mauritian Government ● The Japanese Government has proposed to set up a 3 MW OTEC plant to generate electricity and potable water. The study to the tune of US $ Box 8.1 40,000 will be entirely financed by Japanese Government. Progress with renewable energy resources ● The Mauritian Government will provide 2,500 m2 of land along the shore to Resource Policies Progress Future development accommodate the plant and its ancillary facilities. Solar Low interest ● 8% of households covered ● Ministry of Public Utilities will loans for ● New incentives to encourage continue to promote the use solar water use (loan ceiling raised from of solar water heaters Substitution of ● This is an avenue that is being ● It is envisaged to Fuel Ethanol gasoline with currently considered by commercialise a gasoline- heaters Rs. 15,000 (US $ 520) to Rs. Development 25,000 (US $ 868), interest ethanol government ethanol blend (80: 20) as from rate lowered to 6% and 2005 repayment capacity extended ● It has been agreed that the help to 7 years) of Brazil will be sought for technical cooperation.

● PV street ● 125 solar powered street Ministry of Public Utilities is lighting lighting PV units installed in not envisaging to install projects Mauritius, Rodrigues and in another grid-tie PV unit and is Agaléga even investigating the Box 8.2 ● A 76.8 kWh grid-tie PV system possibility of transferring implemented at the New existing PV units to Agaléga, BAGASSE ENERGY Government Centre where there is an urgent need ● Low penetration in industry for street lighting ● DEVELOPMENT PLAN ● 75% success rate economic appraisal of ● Prone to damage from renewable energy to include cyclones and vandalism externalities Conscious of the country’s burdening dependency on petroleum products Wind Wind ● 3 ‘Vergnet’ 60 kW wind ● Mauritius will benefit from technical assistance of India in Power turbines turbines installed in Rodrigues the Mauritian Government launched – amounting to 4% of total terms of appropriate studies electricity generated for the setting up of wind farms the “Bagasse Energy Development in Mauritius and Rodrigues ● A feasibility study for the setting up of a 5 – 10 MW wind 136 farm will be undertaken under Ethanol Production in Mauritius 137 a public-private partnership scheme MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Mauritius is highly vulnerable to the question to be addressed. However, the Programme (BEDP)” in 1991, with the With the implementation of the BEDP, volatility of prices of oil products, which fact that subsidies exist in the current assistance of the World Bank. bagasse energy has increased from 70 eventually raise the cost of other products tariffs of the CEB means that some GWh in the 1990’s to the actual 300 and services in the national economy. customers do not see the true costs of Through such policy directives, it was the GWh, more than four folds increase.An producing electricity. Government’s aim to promote the use of audit carried out by PB Power (South ● Increase in Demand from Road Transport bagasse for power production,to diversify the Africa) has indicated that bagasse-coal The Way Ahead country’s energy sources and to formalise the used for electricity generation was the Today the challenge is to provide participation of the private sector– the cheapest and most economic in the local Mauritians with sustainable mobility Mauritius has shown keen interest to promote the development of new indigenous Independent Power Producers (IPPs). context. through reliable, energy-efficient, and renewable sources of energy and in so The latter produce electricity from environmentally friendly and fairly priced doing, will focus on a few options that have bagasse during the sugar cane harvesting transport with remedies for road proved to hold promise from a technical, season (approximately 5 months) and congestion. from coal the remaining of the year.Coal economic and financial point of view. has been chosen as complementary fuel, ● How to Increase the Output From as it can be burned in the same boiler as ● Extending Supply Renewable Resources? bagasse and also because it provided an opportunity to further diversify the Under the forthcoming Electricity Act, The exploitation of indigenous sources of country’s energy base with the added Government will be able to achieve its policy energy is limited to wind, hydro, solar and advantage of being more available from objective goals with respect to renewable biomass mainly. While wind and solar are less volatile markets than oil. energy. coming within the range of cost effectiveness, the use of other renewable After consultation with all stakeholders, Government will also be putting emphasis on technologies can only be considered when bagasse and wind, while for the long term, in 10 different Power Purchase Two modes of energy production: the initial investment costs of these start addition to resorting to the cultivation of Agreements were signed with sugar Fort George Thermal Power Station + Centre Thermale de Belle Vue to decrease. new varieties of sugar cane with higher fibre factories and all bagasse generated from Unresolved Issues This also acts as structural barrier to content to generate more bagasse for sugar processing on the island is burnt investment in renewable technologies, conversion into electrical energy, other for electricity generation and co- The principal unresolved issues in which remain at present more expensive options such as OTEC technology are being generation purposes. Currently, three than conventional generation technologies. kept in view. IPPs export electricity to the national sustainable energy management in grid on a year-round basis with a total Mauritius are: ● Pricing Energy to Reflect the Full Government is keeping track of progress in installed capacity of 123 MW.These are: Production Cost, Maintenance and these technologies in terms of their FUEL Steam and Power Generation ● Increase in the Price of Fossil Fuel Environmental Costs development and cost. Even though the Company Limited, Consolidated Energy The major events taking place on the OTEC technology is still at a stage of Limited and Compagnie Thermique de international front, especially war against On the other hand, for the electricity Research and Development, the Mauritian Belle Vue ltée. Iraq has affected the domestic economy sector the efficient delivery and use of Government is actively working on 2 directly by significant rises in petroleum electrical energy is the most important initiatives for the application of this 138 prices.As a small island developing state, 139

C HAPTER 8 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE technology locally. In 2000, a Memorandum As shown in figure 8.2 transport fuel 8. Energy Resources of Understanding was signed by the Indian constitutes the dominant share of the energy A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet and Mauritian Governments for cooperation use pattern.The production of ethanol from Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead in the field of Ocean Science and Technology. molasses as a substitute for gasoline in automobile engines and as an alternative to On the other hand, in the context of the Extending supply Comprehensive, stable Promoting the use of renewable energy petrol is an avenue that is currently being establishment of an Institute of Ocean electrification considered by Government to reduce to Studies at the Saga University in Japan, the some extent gasoline imports. It is expected Managing demand Energy planning and audit Japanese Government has submitted a that gasoline-ethanol blend in a ratio of proposal for the setting up of a 3 MW OTEC 80:20% will be available by the end of 2005. Cost-effective renewable Use of bagasse, solar, wind and OTEC energy hydro Implementation of new wind farms on the plant. Production and export of main island The culture of energy management to ethanol Local use of ethanol With the progress achieved worldwide in the improve energy efficiency must also be Research and Development Comprehensive, stable Development of guidelines, performance design of wind turbines, it is Government’s widely encouraged and vigorously pursued.A electrification indices and regulations policy to encourage the exploitation of wind number of issues of strategic importance Development of economic appraisal should also be addressed in line with methods energy, to substitute as far as possible sustainable consumption patterns.These are: imported oil. In this regard, an assessment of the wind regime will be carried out by the ● Energy planning, Ministry of Public Utilities and the ● Energy audit in the public and private Meteorological Services Department at sector to increase energy efficiency, various heights at two of the best sites. ● The efficiency of energy utilisation in all sectors of the economy, Moreover, with the acquired experiences in electricity generation from bagasse, ● Reform of transportation and physical movements to reduce energy use and Government will also pursue the second pollution, and phase of the BEDP. ● The establishment of performance indices, guidelines and regulations to optimise Managing Demand energy use in new and in old buildings. and

Moreover, there is still room for ● Carbon credit. improvement in the efficiency of fuel utilisation in various sectors of the economy Additionally, with the support of the – transportation, manufacturing, residential international community, Mauritius can including hotels and commercial. Per se, an promote the dissemination and application of Inter-ministerial Committee under the SIDS-appropriate energy technology as well chairmanship of the Prime Minister has been as strengthen existing mechanisms. It is also set up to look at our energy mix and to important that more energy related physical prepare a National Energy Plan to improve infrastructure at national level be provided to our resilience to face the increasing prices of enable the desired economic growth that will petroleum products. maintain the position of Mauritius as an 140 economic leader in the region. 141

C HAPTER 8 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 8 MANAGEMENT OF WASTES Today waste management deals with: Facing these challenges, Mauritius developed a new policy to adopt an integrated wastes The Challenges Current waste production: management approach extending through ● 1,200 tonnes solid waste daily, waste prevention and minimisation, storage, collection, transportation, treatment and orldwide SIDS face similar Mauritius recognises that the solid waste ● 1 kg waste per capita daily, environmentally friendly disposal of waste. problems related to waste management practices of the 80’s and 90’s management predominately were no longer compatible with the changing W ● 372, 434 tonnes of solid waste a year Progress because pressures are growing and quality and quantity of wastes produced. In (2003), sustainable and effective frameworks need the 80’s and till the early 90’s, some 24 official The 1988 and 1999 National Environmental strengthening. In addition, the unique social, dumpsites were operational and better ● 8,000 tonnes of hazardous waste a year Action Plans (NEAP I and NEAP II) and their economic and environmental characteristics security and management were needed. (2003), related Environmental Investment of SIDS, such as high population density, There was no controlled landfill site, no Programmes (EIP) have identified the waste limited availability of land space and lack of waste separation and little recycling and Current cost of municipal waste sector as a priority area for financing. Today human and financial resources, reduce the waste management was the subject of management: waste management constitutes an important appropriate options for the sound increasing attention. In Rodrigues and the ● MUR 550 million (US $ 19 million) a year sector of the society and strategies and management of wastes. Outer Islands waste management strategies for the collection, transportation and plans, services and projects have been were even less developed and initiatives are disposal of refuse waste, developed covering new landfill sites, In Mauritius, rapid economic growth achieved being taken to bring these up to the national ● MUR 1548 (US $ 54) per average education and awareness, new legislation, law through industrialisation and urbanisation, standards. household, and enforcement, field investigations and specific coupled to a general improvement in the ● MUR 387 (US $ 13) per inhabitant. studies (see Box 9.1). standard of living, have contributed significantly to the quantities of wastes being produced (see Figure 9.1). Box 9.1: Studies on waste management carried out from 1989 – 2003 Study Recommendations & Implementation

Jackson, 1989 ● Establishment of sanitary landfills as main method for solid waste disposal, supplemented by composting

● Improvement and modernisation of transport fleet and distribution of dustbins for domestic waste collection

● Levy of charges for the collection of commercial and industrial wastes

● Implementation of a 10-year National Solid Waste Management Plan

144 145

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Study Recommendations & Implementation Study Recommendations & Implementation

Binnie & Site identification study for landfill establishment Brown & Root, ● Reservations expressed by the Ministry of Environment and World Bank as a waste characterisation exercise was Partners, 1992 ● 2 sites were identified: 1998 not carried out based on the following essential criteria for incineration: ● Mare Chicose (South) ● Waste composition

● Mare d’Australia (North) ● Calorific value

● Moisture content Scott Wilson & National Solid Waste Management Plan Kirkpatrick, 1994 ● Implementation of 2 sanitary landfills along with a network Feasibility study and an institutional, legal and cost of 7 transfer stations recovery study for an environmental solid waste management programme for Mauritius and Rodrigues ● Issue of 75-litre bins to some 240,000 households ● ● Modernisation of collection vehicles and re-organisation of 6 scenarios were proposed for solid waste disposal in the collection labour force short, medium and long term including landfilling, incineration and composting ● Review of legislation, standards and regulations

● Identification of recycling opportunities Fichtner GmbH, ● Based on 2 of the 6 scenario proposed, Government 1999 decided that the following actions be adopted: ● Setting up of a composting plant ● Immediate extension of the Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill The National Solid Waste Management Plan was partly implemented as a component of EIP 1 and was co-financed and a National Action Plan for solid waste minimisation by Government and the World Bank ● Consideration for the implementation of a waste-to- ● Only one sanitary landfill was constructed at Mare Chicose in power project on a BOO scheme 1997 and the landfill project at Mare d’Australia was abandoned.The construction of Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill Feasibility study for the management of municipal led to the closure of all open dumps and the conversion of Carl Bro, 2004 solid waste and hazardous waste & identification of a some to transfer stations and the rehabilitation of others. site for a new municipal solid waste landfill

Revision of the National Solid Waste Management ● Plan Preparation of a build, own and operate bidding document for a sanitary landfill for municipal solid waste and ● Incineration was recommended as the main disposal hazardous waste, a pre-treatment and incineration facility option for hazardous waste and a waste-to-energy facility for municipal solid waste. ● 2 waste-to-energy incinerators be constructed on Build- Operate-Transfer (BOT) and Build-Own-Operate (BOO) ● Current waste characteristics do not render waste schemes incineration with energy recovery a suitable waste treatment method as the low calorific value of waste was ● The plants could supply about 106 GWh/year of electricity and same could be sold to CEB due to a large portion of green wastes from yards and kitchens. As a result, incineration cannot be sustained 146 without an auxiliary fuel. 147

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Forecast for solid waste produced in Mauritius show an increasing burden and the current facilities will be insufficient to cope much sooner than anticipated (see Figure 9.2). ● Awareness Campaigns dispose of their bulky wastes that are Emphasis is given to waste not usually collected by local minimisation since it is the most authorities, hence reducing illegal sensible manner to decrease the dumping and promoting recycling. amount of waste to be disposed of, thus reducing pressure on Mare ● Extension of the Mare Chicose Chicose Sanitary Landfill. Ongoing Sanitary Landfill sensitisation campaigns in the media and to different target groups are A geotechnical investigation of the carried out. proposed extension site at Mare Chicose has been carried out, and the

● Composting site is considered suitable for 2 pilot composting plants are to be development as a landfill, if engineered constructed in the North and South of with a robust lining system and the island. appropriate standards. The construction of an additional cell has

● Recycling been entrusted to the present landfill Regulations have been promulgated to operator in October 2003. encourage waste reduction and re-use. The National Solid Waste Management For instance, plastic carry bags below ● Incineration/Landfill/Hazardous Strategy of April 2002 therefore aimed to their disposal as well as ensuring that 50 micrometers have been banned and Waste Complex promote the reduction of wastes and an the socio-economic development of regulations have been made to control increased capacity for handling it (see Box the country, the health of its people the thickness of these.With regards to A draft feasibility report on the above 9.2). This strategy includes composting, and the quality of its environmental PET bottles, Government promulgated has been submitted by Carl Bro separation and recycling. resources are not affected by an the Environment Protection International. However,the consultants uncontrolled and uncoordinated waste (Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) claim that landfilling will remain the disposal system. Bottle Permit) 2001, regulations to main disposal option for Mauritius for Box 9.2 develop ‘product responsibility’ among the foreseeable future and that waste NATIONAL SOLID WASTE The thrust of the National Solid Waste bottlers for the proper management of incineration is not a sustainable waste MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Management Strategy focuses on a bottles, after they have been sold. treatment method for Mauritius due multi-pronged approach to waste to the current waste characteristics The National Solid Waste Management disposal through: ● Construction of Civic Amenity and prohibitive cost. Strategy aims at reducing the Centres for Bulky Wastes generation of waste and the ● Waste Minimisation (Composting, environmental impacts associated with Recycling & New Regulations) These will enable households to 148 149

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● Construction of a Landfill in the for the upgrading of Roche Bois Institution Regulation North/North East Transfer Station is under preparation. ● Moreover, the generators are also required to prepare an A complete feasibility study needs to ● Energy recovery from Mare Chicose inventory of hazardous wastes that are being generated, be undertaken for the identification of Sanitary Landfill on a quarterly basis and submit it to the enforcing agency a potential landfill site in the North/North East. With about 1 million tonnes of waste (Ministry of Local Government and Solid Waste already landfilled at Mare Chicose, the Management). ● Construction of New Transfer recovery of energy from landfill gas is Stations and the Upgrading of being envisaged. The assistance of the Existing Ones Prototype Carbon Fund will be sought Ministry of Local ● Enforcing Agency for solid waste management, under EPA for the implementation of the energy Government & (2002) A new transfer station which will cater recovery project Solid Waste for the eastern area of the island is Management ● Charged with the responsibilities for overall coordination, presently under construction at La planning and operation of the solid waste management Laura. Tenders for the upgrading of Reform of the law and of the institutional system: Poudre d’Or Transfer Station has framework for management has been an already been awarded and the tender essential part of development in this field ● Waste collection and disposal (see Box 9.3).

● Operation and management of transfer stations and landfill Box 9.3 Institutional and Legal Framework ● Implementation of hazardous wastes regulations

Institution Regulation Local Authorities Local Government Act 2003 Environment Protection Act 2002 ● Address the collection of wastes (sometimes addressed by Ministry of ● Make legislations, formulate policies, draft and enforce commissioned private contractors) Environment & standards, issue waste management operations through National EIA licences Local Government Dumping and Waste Carriers Development Unit Environment Protection (Standards for Hazardous Regulations 2003 Wastes) Regulations 2001 ● Covers transport of waste, issue of licences and various ● Under these regulations, the responsibility for storage and other penalties for non-compliant waste carriers collection of hazardous wastes generated by industrial and commercial units lies with the generators. 150 151

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Box 9.4 carry out paper recycling activities. Waste Management System Products such as recycled paper, carton boxes, gift boxes and folders are sold to the public.

Management of wastes ● The Mauritius Glass Gallery recycles glass bottles, mainly from breweries and produces a wide variety of Domestic Compacted creative glass objects, which are sold Collection Compaction Landfilling Industrial Bulk to tourists and the general public. Sanitary landfill at Mare Chicose ● There are a few companies involved in Local Authorities & 4 Transfer Stations Mare Chicose (4000-8000 T Sanitary Landfill Recycling and treatment of waste have been the collection and export of scrap Private Contractors wastes/month) (1200 T/day) essential steps in reform, but these are so far metals and in 2003, the following in their infancy (see Box 9.5). companies (Steel Scrap Ltd, G. Runghen & Co, The Samlo Group and Collection of Wastes Scrap Supplies Ltd) with collaboration Box 9.5 with the Ministry of Environment, ● Collection is done at least once weekly in residential areas and more regularly in Waste recycling and treatment were involved in the removal of vehicle commercial districts. carcasses around the island. The level of waste minimisation and ● Wastes from industries and hotels are collected separately on the initiative and at the recycling of wastes is very low and ● With regards to textile wastes, Soge expense of enterprises but, the majority of small commerce and many small enterprises only very few companies are involved are served by the service running for households. International Co. Ltd, Lagtex CO. Ltd, with the recycling of glass, paper, Recycling Industries (Mtius) Ltd and plastics, textile wastes and scrap Giant International Trading export Waste Transfer and Disposal metals. Recycling activities are carried thread, fabric and yarn wastes. out solely by the private sector. ● All the wastes are either disposed of: ● At Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill or ● Plastic waste recycling is carried out by ● To transfer stations where they are compacted to be eventually transported to the landfill. the Plastic Recycling Ltd. situated at Riche Terre.The waste, which consists ● There are 4 transfer stations: mainly of polyethylene and ● La Brasserie, polypropylene, is collected throughout ● Poudre d’Or, the island by a contractor,which sells it ● Roche Bois and to the recycling company. ● St. Martin Approximately, 2 tonnes of plastic wastes are processed daily.

● All are equipped with weighbridge for registration of incoming and outgoing wastes. 152 ● Dakri Paper Products and V.P Handmade 153 Collecting PET bottles

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The management of hazardous waste is being especially addressed in Mauritius. Provision is commercial units lies with the Cleaner Production in Industry made for different types of wastes including generators. solids, liquids and medical wastes. The At the level of the industries, some of dedicated cell on the national landfill site is A number of different practices are them have recognised that application designed to avoid leaching of hazardous currently in place in Mauritius such as: of Cleaner Production could result in a wastes into the local environment. It is win-win strategy so as to decrease the recognised that controls need to be ● Solid hazardous wastes are not waste stream, hence improve industrial strengthened to ensure that all hazardous collected separately but discharged efficiency, increase productivity and wastes are properly managed. with non-hazardous wastes, bring financial benefits to the enterprise. Cleaner Production has A Hazardous Waste Management ● Liquid hazardous waste is discharged been implemented mostly in food Information System is currently being with the sewage water or disposed of –manufacturing industries namely: developed at the Ministry of Local to the environment, Britannia Sugar Factory, Moroil, Government and Solid Waste Management, Maurilait Production Ltée, but few whereby a database of hazardous waste ● Some hazardous waste is stored at the Mare Chicose landfill. Hazardous have been successful due to lack of generators with corresponding waste premises of the industry due to the wastes that could lead to leaching of management commitment, perception streams and quantities will be established. lack of disposal facilities, toxic components are not accepted at of risks and not willing to invest. the landfill without pre-treatment. For Box 9.6 instance, expired solid products are Among the hazardous waste generator Hazardous waste management ● In hospitals, hazardous waste is only accepted if encapsulated in industries, Cleaner Production has collected and incinerated on-site, impermeable material. Liquid been implemented in only one As at March 2003, the number of hazardous wastes with water content chemical-producing industry with the industries operating in Mauritius and ● Internal collection systems of waste higher than 70% as well as acids, aim of reducing the water Rodrigues amounted to 2410. Out of generators do not meet the pesticides, biocides, chemical and consumption. The option of recycling, the industrial category, 792 industries requirements for safe handling and petroleum wastes are not accepted at re-using or recovering the hazardous have been rated as being hazardous disposal of hazardous waste, and the landfill site. landfill without pre- wastes was not on the agenda of the waste generators. Therefore, potential treatment. For instance, expired solid management. hazardous wastes generators account ● A very small quantity of hazardous products are only accepted if for about one-third of the total waste is disposed of at the hazardous encapsulated in impermeable material. number of industries in Mauritius. waste cell at the Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill. Liquid hazardous wastes with water Under the Environment Protection content higher than 70% as well as (Standards for Hazardous Wastes) The only existing possibility for acids, pesticides, biocides, chemical and Regulations 2001, the responsibility for hazardous waste disposal is offered at petroleum wastes are not accepted at storage and collection of hazardous the dedicated landfill cell at the landfill site. wastes generated by industrial and 154 155

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The move from the use of waste dumps, The Way Ahead enforcement of laws against illegal disposal of many illegal, to the establishment of a tonnes) and Mare Chicose Landfill was wastes.An important part of enforcement is properly constructed national landfill site and originally planned to receive 300 Further efforts are needed at all levels to better control of hazardous wastes and the transfer stations, has been a major aspect of tonnes wastes per day, but is actually implement the actions, policies and measures continued practice of illegal disposal through reform. In addition, the new system operates receiving 1,200 tonnes daily. At this to achieve an environmentally sound waste storm drains and sewers. As part of through a partnership between the public rate, the life span of the landfill has management system. The aim is to provide development, there has been a steady and private sector. The Ministry of Local been dramatically reduced from 19 to decent sustainable waste management for increase in the disposal of motor vehicles, Government and Solid Waste Management 8 years, i.e. up to 2005. local people and for businesses. This will be engines, e-wastes and domestic appliances. and Local Authorities carry responsibility for developed by improving the scope, content Better provisions need are being envisaged. coordinating the system within a national Currently,there are two storage ponds and quality of local services and by the policy. Operational management of the and a leachate treatment plant, which continual examination of the opportunities Sound waste management is an important national landfill site and the transfer stations has however stopped its operation for extending the management of demand element in the national strategy to develop is privatised. Funds for the collection of since September 2002. Leachate from and increasing the volume of supply. the service sector to international standards domestic and commercial wastes, beach the landfill is transported on a daily and to support high class tourism and to cleaning and road cleaning are managed by basis to Roche Bois. Moreover, landfill Further emphasis will be given to recycling, attract foreign investment. Local Authorities,who either directly manage gas is collected and flared and it is environmental education and the services or contract these to private estimated that last year 3,424 Nm3/hr companies. of methane gas was produced, with a collectable production of 2,739 9. Management of Wastes Nm3/hr or 80%. Furthermore, the A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet Box 9.7 Ministry of Local Government and Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead National sanitary landfill Solid Waste Management intends to Increase in waste output ● Education ● Integrated planning for recycling and Mare Chicose look after the feasibility of establishing ● Introduction of extending services to meet needs The Mare Chicose Sanitary Landfill, landfill gas powered generators to environmentally friendly ● Environmental education packaging ● Promoting reduction of wastes at source located in the south of the island is supply electricity to the local grid. currently the only operational landfill. Poor systems ● Strengthening of institutional ● Further legislation The site started its operation in 1997 and legal framework ● Increase in environmental enforcement and at present receives all the wastes from the island.The site is a controlled landfill with the later cells designed Safe disposal of waste ● Sanitary landfill for waste ● Better provisions for the disposal of disposal motor vehicles, engines, e-wastes and with an in-situ clay liner of 1.3 meters ● Dedicated landfill for the domestic appliances ● disposal of hazardous wastes Provision of appropriate means of final of thickness.The site was developed in disposal to meet future requirements relatively small cells in accordance with Waste as a resource ● Recycling ● Electricity generation from CH4 capture the waste inflow. ● Composting plant for green wastes

The design capacity of the landfill is 156 1,844,000 m3 (about 1,475,000 157

C HAPTER 9 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 9 Health

The Challenges

n all SIDS the health of the population is infant and maternal mortality have steadily an essential requirement for sustainable improved (See Figure 10.2-10.3). But the Idevelopment. Health and economic gains made from the virtual elimination of development are strongly associated in SIDS common infectious diseases and from the . But for most SIDS, their isolation, their small eradication of malaria and polio, have been size and their fragmentation across many offset by a growing prevalence of non islands, puts health at risk, presents obstacles communicable disease and accidents (See to the delivery of coherent and effective Figure 2, Introduction) notable circulatory medical services and of those other services, disease, cancers , diabetes, mental illness and on which health vitally depends, such as road accidents. There is also a small but water, sanitation, decent housing and growing reported number of cases of education. Child health, for example, one of HIV/AIDS (See Figure 10.4). There are in the most sensitive health indicators, is closely addition inequalities in health across the linked to the provision of safe water in SIDS islands with a higher level of infant mortality (See Figure 10.1) in Rodrigues for example (See Figure 10.1). This is possibly linked to differences in In Mauritius, since 1944 expectation of life economic and social development of the has risen from 33 years to 72 years.(See islands. Figure 3, Introduction) In the last thirty years,

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C HAPTER 10 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE In Mauritius heart disease is responsible for targets for better health and better health 50% of deaths in the country. In the ● 2.2 hospital beds in regional and services and for consumer values (See Box Service targets population aged 30 years and above, 20% are district hospitals per 1 000 population, 10. 2). and these have been re-enforced in the diabetics and 30% are hypertensive. commitment to the MDGs. But the response ● Save 500 lives a year from end stage Prevalence of smoking, obesity and alcoholic ● Average of 2.5 out patient attendances to these challenges involves changing the renal failure ( a complication of abuse are also significant risk factors at hospital per person per year. The pattern of consumption and production in diabetes), and especially in men. hospital system of the country forms a the country and making better use of natural significant part of the socio-economic resources for health. ● Provide a 24 hour family doctor By comparison with other developing states, activities of the nation, with more than service. health in Mauritius is good and health 75% of the health budget allocated to This will require new investment and a fresh services well provided (See Box 10.1). But public hospitals, focus on the promotion of health and the Consumer targets the achievement of the millennium quality of life Success depends not just on the development goals remains a challenge, ● Average of 0.9 physicians per 1 000 efforts of the MOHQL but also needs ● Ensure effective quality care for all although the trends are mostly in the right population of whom 63% work in the support from other departments of those with non-communicable disease direction. (See Chapter: 18). public sector and 245 are registered government, the private sector and the (especially those with diabetes and specialists, population at large. The health promotion hypertension) Reducing the impact of non-communicable strategy is to make the healthy choices in diseases and containing the growing risk of ● Average of 2.2 qualified nurses per 1 daily living, in consumption and in Achieving these targets will require HIV/AIDS are important priorities. For 000 population, production, the easy choices for the country. more investment and the Government better health is vital for sustained White Paper reviewed options for development in Mauritius.The current health ● 1.2 dentists per 10 000 population, alternative sources of funding to problems are having a growing impact on the Box 10.2 supplement existing financial quality of life and productive capacity of ● 2.3 pharmacies per 10 000 population, and Health Sector targets commitment, including health people of working age and producing heavy insurance, health taxes on tobacco and levels of dependence in the increasing ● SAMU emergency ambulance service Source:White Paper on Health Sector alcohol, incentives for expansion of the population of elderly people. in every region Development and Reform 2002 private sector, and service charges within the pubic sector. Drugs, in the public health sector are Health targets Box 10.1 supplied, free of direct charge to Clinical services delivery patients including ART for people with ● Increase in expectation of life to above Progress HIV/AIDS. 75 years, Clinical services are delivered The Ministry of Health & Quality of Life has throughout the country with: ● Reduction in infant mortality to single been increasing the emphasis on prevention This challenge is being taken up both within figures, and and treatment of NCDs in recent years ● One primary health care unit per the health services and in the country as a ● Reduce tobacco use, alcohol abuse, through a national integrated programme 9 000 heads with an average of 2.6 whole. The White Paper on Health Sector obesity and increase exercise and covering clinical and community activities. 162 attendances per person per year, Development and Reform, 2002, set clear dental health. This includes: 163

C HAPTER 10 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● The Health Information, Education screening and detection of high blood and Communication Unit for pressure, elevated blood cholesterol, Box 10.3 SADC countries. A Memorandum of influencing the knowledge, attitude, diabetes, obesity, visual problems, breast Partnership to contain HIV/AIDS Understanding has been signed beliefs and practices of the Mauritian and cervical cancers. By March 2004, 200 between the Member States of Indian population and to bring about desirable 000 persons had been screened, including Whilst HIV/AIDS affects less than 1 Ocean Commission and the UN health related behavioural changes. 42 000 women for breast and cervical per thousand of the adult population, Agencies regarding HIV/AIDS. cancers. Out of these, 3.5% were there is an upward trend in the high In that context, projects have been ● The National AIDS Control diagnosed as having cervical cancer and risk groups and a risk of spread to the submitted to the WHO for funding Programme coordinates AIDS 3.2% with breast disorders. wider population. under the Programme Accelerating prevention activities (See Box 10.3). Fund. As regards the Global Fund, a ● New framework of legislation to The first case of AIDS was detected in country coordinated programme has ● The Health Inspectorate Unit promote protection for health and for 1987. A cumulative number of 866 been worked out by key stakeholders carries out activities in order to keep human rights of patients HIV/AIDS cases have been reported as from Government Institutions, NGOs proper control on the introduction of at end of June 2004. Out of these, 104 and the private sector. The overall goal communicable diseases and also to ● Action to make better use of natural were non-residents and 762 residents of the programme aims at reducing by maintain sanitary standards. resources for health including use of sea and among the residents, 111 have year 2010 new HIV infections among and of land pathways in villages for died, which leaves a presumed number the most vulnerable groups, that is, the ● The Nutrition Unit sensitises the exercise, conversion of land from sugar of 651 people living with HIV/AIDS in Commercial Sex Workers, the injecting population on healthy nutrition and cane and tobacco for growing fruit and Mauritius. There is a slow but a drug users and the youth. lifestyle. vegetables for a healthier diet, land for definitely rise in the incidence rate of growing medicinal plants for health HIV. The prevalence rate among The strategy for tackling HIV/AIDS includes: ● The Environmental Health Unit remedies, building on indigenous culture pregnant women is around 0.07% as ● A national mechanism for policy monitors the quality of drinking water for healthier life style, including stress compared to 8% and 6% among the review and an Action Plan, and controls air, noise and odour relief through meditation and relaxation sex workers and prison inmates pollution to safeguard and promote methods, aerobic movement, and respectively. The HIV epidemic in ● Multi-sectoral policy committee public health and the environment. through community facilities for sport Mauritius can be considered as chaired by the Prime Minister, for all. “concentrated” since the prevalence is ● The Malaria Eradication less than 1% in the population in ● National HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan Programme which includes general and more than 5% in the sex 2001-2005, environmental controls on mosquito workers group. breeding, selective spraying of the Mauritius is supporting the ● other key Ministers and airport, seaport, ships, and planes, the implementation of the SADC representatives of NGOs and of the follow-up of travellers from countries HIV/AIDS Strategy Plan, particularly in civil society, with endemic malaria, and free preventive the tourism sector where we are drugs for Mauritian travellers visiting taking the lead. Needs for assessment ● A multi-sectoral Technical Advisory these countries. in that sector is being carried out in Committee plans action within the strategic framework and advises the ● NCD Mobile Service, popularly NAC on issues relating to HIV/AIDS, 164 known as “Caravane de Santé” for Promoting healthy life style 165

C HAPTER 10 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The most striking feature in the health profile traditional medicine, , tobacco control, and ● Information, education, counselling,and of the country has been the eradication of ● Mental Health Act of 1998 for the alcohol abuse. Some of the “hotel services” testing services are provided in the major infectious diseases. The prevention of reform of mental health services to of hospitals are contracted out to private regional and local health facilities, their re-emergence and protection against promote better prevention, treatment firms. and rehabilitation in mental health and ● A national hot-line service is newly emerging diseases are continuing areas operational to answer to queries of of investment. No cases of Severe Acute protection of civil and human rights of One indicator of progress in Mauritius has the population, Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Avian Flu patients, been the decline in assistance from donor have been recorded in Mauritius. agencies as Mauritius no longer qualifies for ● Epidemiological and behavioural ● Dangerous Chemicals Control Act assistance because of the increasing per surveillance is undertaken for HIV and The present expanded programme of 2003 to prevent damage to health and capita income and declining infant and other sexually transmitted infections, immunisation (EPI) covers 100% of the the environment from dangerous maternal mortality rates in the country. targeted population, including BCG Vaccine chemicals, UNICEF and UNFPA have ceased their ● All blood donations are screened for HIV, Hepatitis B and C and Syphilis, against tuberculosis, DPT Vaccine against operations in Mauritius. The main donor diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus, ● Occupational Safety, Health and agency is the World Health Organisation. ● Post exposure antiretroviral Hepatitis B Vaccine, OPV against Welfare Act. to improve health and Multilateral loans include loans from the Arab prophylaxis for 4 weeks is provided to poliomyelitis, MMR Vaccine against measles, welfare at work, and Bank for Economic Development in Africa those accidentally exposed to HIV mumps and rubella, and Tetanus (2nd or (BADEA) and the African Development including victims of rape, higher dose) for pregnant women. ● Human Tissue Bill to regulate the use Bank, for the implementation of capital of human tissue and organs. projects at Victoria Hospital and Dr. A. G. ● The primary prevention of mother to child transmission starts with HIV Jeetoo Hospital respectively. But these loans information and education of girls of Box 10.4 are now on less concessional rates. childbearing age and women in social Legislation Partnerships and Networking for welfare centres, women’s centres and Sustainable Development To overcome geographical and professional workplaces, As part of health sector reform new isolation, the support of foreign medical legislation includes: The effectiveness of health programmes visiting teams has been stepped up for ● Pregnant women attending health depends on a multi-sectoral approach within technical policy review and for training centres and hospitals are counselled ● Environmental Protection Act 2002; government, with the private sector and especially in complex high technology clinical and tested with their consent, MOHQL the enforcing agency for NGOs. It involves substantial development procedures. The Mauritius Institute of ● HIV positives women and their quality of drinking water and control of legislation (See Box 10.4) The MOHQL Health, which operates under the aegis of the newborns are treated with AZT of odour and noise, works in close collaboration with other MOHQL, works in close collaboration with (antiretroviral treatment), ministries in the fields of education, disability, foreign training institutions, for example, the ● Medical Council Act of 1999, for the elderly people, mother and child health, University of Bordeaux II, for the more ● Babies are given powdered milk free regulation of the medical and dental youth and sport. It also works in partnership accurate detection of serious illness and its for 2 years. This protocol reduces the professions, with the private sector health services in treatment, high technology services have risk from 30% to 2%, and specialist care of diabetics, in nurse training, been developed (See Box 10.5). ● Food Safety Act of 1999 for and specialist service development. and with ● Since 2002, AZT is provided to all improvement of food hygiene, 166 persons who need it. NGOs on reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, 167

C HAPTER 10 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The Way Ahead Priority programmes of investment for Box 10.5 better health include better: High Technology Services Implementation Plan for the Health Sector ● Water supplies and sanitation to Diagnostic Services remoter parts of the country, CT scanners and MRI: to support An Action Plan has been developed as part of treatment of ncds and trauma. the pilot stage for introducing Programme ● Housing for poorer people in relatively Nuclear medicine: with equipment Budgeting, Results Based Management and deprive areas, for diagnostic exploration of internal the Medium Term Expenditure Framework organs with radioactive materials to for the country. It includes major structural ● Power and communications for basic provide clearer images of facilities for healthy living for all people, reforms in the health sector to achieve abnormalities higher levels of efficiency, effectiveness and Ultra-sound and echography CT Scanner ● New, safe and cleaner technologies to responsiveness to patients, with nine equipment: for diagnosis and reduce pollution, The MOHQL also participates in activities programmes, covering: Curative Services, surveillance of unborn babies. organized by the SADC Health Sector on Primary Health Care, Public Health, Non- ● Promotion and incentives for a healthier technical development and policy review. Communicable Diseases and Health lifestyle, Treatment Services: The Commonwealth Regional Health Promotion, Asset Management, Central Endoscopy and colposcopy services: Community Secretariat (CRHCS) and the ● Coherence in delivery of clinical services with fiber optic equipment in all World Health Organisation provide in- Support Services, Education and Training, and services for prevention and regions for enhancing gynaecology service training, through workshops and Management, and Rodrigues and the Outer treatment of ncds, and Hyperbaric services: comprising a seminars. Sector-wide National Health Islands. The estimated cost of implementing ● Research and evaluation to guide pressure chamber, for treatment of Accounts are being developed for the first the Plan is Rs. 13.2 billion (US$455 million) programmes for better clinical services accidents related to deep sea diving; time in Mauritius with the support of the over a three-year period. and public health. can also be used in the treatment of CRHCS and the World Health Organisation. non-healing leg ulcers In Mauritius development and Haemodialysis: More than 40 sets of Other action on improving health includes: industrialisation have led to major alterations equipment for treatment of patients in employment patterns, hours of work, ● Strategy on Diet, Nutrition and Physical with kidney failure, principally as a leisure patterns and use of time. Much of the Activity; National Dietary Guidelines are result of long term diabetes. improvement to health in the past has been being implemented. Specialised Cardiac units: for dependent on the provision of basic facilities diagnosis and treatment of heart for decent living, which is a prerequisite for ● Action Plan on Physical Activity diseases community health. Further development of Cardiac surgery: with equipment for ● Action Plan in consultation with all these facilities requires new investment and a open heart surgery and invasive stakeholders concerned, for the fresh focus on those parts of the country, cardiology. prevention and control of smoking and which are relatively deprived, including Organ transplant services: other tobacco related products. Rodrigues and the outer islands. including kidney transplant and cornea transplant. 168 ● Introduction of a family doctor service 169

C HAPTER 10 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 10. Health A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Rise in non communicable ● Integrated clinical and health ● Family doctor services disease and accidents promotion programme ● Development of community and domiciliary care ● Multi sector action to reduce injuries

● Small but growing threat of ● Multi sector national ● Further strengthening of integrated HIV/AIDS programme community and clinical services with strong ● Prevention, treatment, national leadership and active ngos counselling and education

● Professional and ● Public private multi-national ● Strengthening continuing education and role management development partnership in professional of professional bodies training and development ● Further support for public private partnership ● Management development, ● Re-enforcement of international networking efficiency and quality ● Reform of management structure and culture improvement

● Infrastructure development ● Asset management programme ● Implementing master plans for site for development and maintenance development of buildings, equipment and estate ● Planned preventive maintenance ● New buildings and equipment ● Cyclical replacement and development for better range and quality of plans for whole estate services

● Financial commitment ● Increased investment in ● Review of forms of financing buildings, equipment, staff and ● Continued extension of public and private community support sectors ● Development of fiscal policy to promote healthier consumption patterns and cleaner technology in industry

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C HAPTER 10 Trade and investment Since the first WTO Ministerial Conference competition and the loss of preferential held in Singapore in 1996, Mauritius has been trading arrangements. But it retains a The Challenges advocating a special case for SIDS in the continued resilience in the face of pressure, WTO system. Indeed, while the WTO has by increasing efficiency and by diversification. recognized the principle of differentiated IDS are vulnerable to rapid changes in economies of scale, they have to export the approach to countries at each level of Non sugar agriculture now represents 50% global trade and investment.This arises surplus. The income from exports finances development, it does not yet have special of the total agriculture output with the Sfrom their small size, the narrow range the imports necessary for domestic provision to respond to the specific needs of contribution of this sector as a whole, of their products and services, and their consumption. the SIDS. The preferential trade agreements declining and now under 10% of GDP isolation from alternative markets. To adapt, being phased out under WTO rules and the compared to 30% in the mid 1970s. In sugar intensified competition from China and itself responding global pressures, Mauritius an economy needs to acquire new trading The major challenge for the competitiveness other Asian competitors, are continuing has increased mechanization in the sugar partners, new sources of raw materials and of the country’s industry is the constant rise economic threats for SIDS in general. fields, centralized sugar processing, invested new technical assistance.That takes time: It is in the local cost of production. Its distance in continual research to optimise the yield more difficult for SIDS and the outcome is from major commercial centres in Europe, Economic Diversification and moved into container transport of the uncertain. Africa and Asia means high transport costs. final products. The contribution of the The high degree of foreign content in the If the future looks uncertain the past agricultural sector to GDP is expected to Mauritius is a small and open economy and local production process makes some of the Mauritian experience has revealed that a grow by 4.7% in 2004, compared with 1.7% in despite its economic diversification in recent exports ineligible to some markets, small economy, characterized by a number of 2003 with a higher growth in the sugar cane years, remains vulnerable to global depending on the specific rules of origin that permanent disadvantages can respond than in other agriculture. developments as its export sector relies on a apply in each case. In garment manufacturing effectively with the right set of policies, few products and services and on the cotton and wool are all imported. If trade commitment and entrepreneurial skill. The Export Processing Zone (EPZ) preferential access to specific markets in the preferences are eroded rapidly, sugar, tuna, Diversification and specialisation has been a key response in all sectors. The industrial strategy of Mauritius was European Union and United States. textiles and clothing will face major initially oriented towards import substitution challenges from global competition. Agricultural diversification was not aimed at at the time of Independence, in 1968. The For a small island like Mauritius, trade is not replacing sugar cane, since Mauritius had a new government, however, adopted an only an instrument to promote economic It is also difficult for Mauritius to conduct secure and guaranteed market for its sugar export oriented strategy with the enactment growth. It is an indispensable means to international business with larger states on a under the Sugar Protocol operating under of the Export Processing Zone Act in the overcome the lack of resources at local level genuinely level playing field. Its relatively high the Lomé and Cotonou Agreements. It was early 1970s.Taking advantage of the EU trade and to satisfy the needs of its population in GNP per capita denies it the continued rather to enlarge the agricultural range to preferences under the Lomé Conventions, basic commodities.With a population of 1.2 advantages of the flexible WTO provisions produce more fruits and vegetables for the the EPZ became a major mechanism for million, Mauritius relies on external markets that are normally available to the low income local market, plants and cut flowers for the growth within the manufacturing sector, for its economic viability in agriculture, countries, in particular the LDCs. Income tourist sector.But more importantly, the shift contributing greatly to economic manufacturing, financial services, tourism and per head, does not give a true reflection of was to achieve a more efficient and intensive development. In 2003, the EPZ contributed major parts of social services such as the vulnerable situation of Mauritius arising use of land and labour,which are both limited over 21% to GDP and provided over 27% of resources in a small island like Mauritius.The total employment in the country. Domestic specialist health services and tertiary from its size, the few advantages of contribution of agriculture to the economy manufacturing accounted for nearly 50% of education. Small islands have small domestic economies of scale and its heavy reliance on has been declining and the sector as a whole the contribution of manufacturing to GDP in markets . For producers to benefit from imports. 172 is facing serious threats from global 2003. 173

C HAPTER 11 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The domestic sector has now to contend with increasing competition from countries Box 11.1 competition with preference- Mauritius is one among those abroad such as Egypt at the level of COMESA Challenges in the textile and dependent countries like Mauritius developing countries that will be and South Africa in SADC. Trade clothing sector whose margin of preference and severely hit by the end to the MFA. A liberalization at the multilateral level under degree of competitiveness will be deceleration of growth in the textiles the NAMA and EPA initiatives are the other With the phasing out of the Multi- significantly eroded. The main export sector is already occurring in challenges the sector has to face. Fibre Arrangement (MFA) in markets for textiles and clothing are anticipation of the quota-phase out. December 2004, the quota system for the EU and the USA absorbing 65% Employment in the textile industry In 2003 the EPZ contribution to GDP within international trade in textiles and the manufacturing sector, was 46%, and this clothing sector will finally disappear. and 27% of total EPZ exports which rose from 15,000 in 1978 to constituted nearly 10% of total GDP. The This will bring fundamental change in respectively in 2003. Exports to the EU over 91,000 in 1999 declined to under number of workers in the EPZ in 2003, the development of trade in this have declined since 2001. Exports to 78,000 in 2003. represented nearly 60% of total employment sector.The MFA, which is in operation the USA have been declining since in the manufacturing sector in Mauritius. since 1974, has provided the basis on 2002 due mainly to closures of major firms in the EPZ that have been serving In 1993 number of enterprises operating in The dominant components within the EPZ the USA market. the EPZ was 536; by 2003 it remained above are textiles and clothing, which account for which industrialised countries have 500, with a yearly crop of between 9 and 48 54% of all the EPZ enterprises, 86% of total been able to restrict imports from The textiles and clothing sector is a new starts and between 20 and 60 closures. EPZ employment and 80% of total direct EPZ developing countries. However, a highly important source of Whilst closures tend to attract publicity the exports See Box 11.1). The major export number of developing countries like employment for women in Mauritius, number closed in 2003 was the second items from this EPZ sub-sector,are pullovers, Mauritius have been able to export to being the largest employer after lowest number in the 11 year period. (See shirts, t-shirts and trousers, which together EU market without any quota accounted for about 90% of the total textiles restriction by virtue of the preferential agriculture. Women make up more Figures 11.1 and 11.2) and clothing exports from Mauritius in 2003. arrangement governed by the than 67% of the total labour force in Cotonou Agreement (the successor the Textile and Clothing sector. The for Lomé Convention). The USA also sector has not only contributed to has recently extended preferential women’s income but has also had access to the textile and clothing positive effects on their educational products emanating from the Sub- attainment. Saharan Africa. These preferential arrangements (which are generally Growth in the EPZ has slowed over duty-free and quota-free) have given the past few years. Mauritius' the preference-dependent countries a competitiveness is being tested by the significant competitive advantage over emergence of new low-cost those developing countries restrained by quota restrictions. competitors. Bilateral agreements A texile unit signed by EU with ACP competitors From 2005 textile giants like China, such as Morocco, Chili, Egypt and India and Pakistan will trade in a quota Mexico constitute additional threats to 174 free environment and will be in direct Mauritius. 175

C HAPTER 11 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Mauritius wants to negotiate changes in the under the Investment Promotion Act (2000). WTO approach, and looks to partnership in Additionally, in order to streamline all multilateral and regional level for this applications for investment, the Board of purpose. The SIDS with a total population of Investment (BOI) was set-up as a form of over 50 million are more likely to succeed one-stop shop with fast-track procedures in together than as single isolated states. Like place, to reduce waiting time, provide for many SIDS, Mauritius faces severe greater predictability and fast track constraints, in terms of human and financial procedures, and eliminate overlapping. resources in participating in trade negotiations. Participation in the Government has also introduced a series of negotiations is the only possible way for measures to encourage the development of Mauritius as well as for the SIDS to influence Small and Medium Entreprises (SMEs) to to advantage the rules, their interpretation generate employment in the country. SMEs and their implementation. are presently creating five times more jobs than large firms. The Small and Medium Progress Industries Development Organisation Tourism revenue and it will inevitably suffer from the (SMIDO) which was set up in 1993 to WTO’s move to accelerate tariff The Government of Mauritius has put in promote entrepreneurship at grass root level The tourism sector has developed into a big liberalisation and to phase out its export place a set of policy packages in terms of for self employment is now taking major foreign exchange earner as well as a big incentives and fiscal subsidies. Moreover, the trade preferences, industrial support steps to accelerate the growth of SMEs growth and employment contributor. It also trade preferences which have been a vital programmes and investment incentives that through enhancement of their has stimulated expansion and improvement element in the economic development of are geared to attract and retain investment. competitiveness and development. The Organisation is further exploiting economic of the island’s infrastructure, with the Mauritius are not only being eroded but are In order to foster domestic investment and opportunities by encouraging Mauritian construction of new roads, communication, being challenged by the WTO rules. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), entrepreneurs to enter into joint ventures electricity networks and leisure facilities of Government is investing massively in with overseas’ partners to benefit from their benefit to other sectors and to the local Another major problem faced by Mauritius is infrastructure and utilities, and is conducting know-how and access to their markets. In population. The contribution of hotels and that the cost of doing business is high due to an aggressive campaign in service sectors like the same context, it is providing facilities to restaurants to the economy has grown from overhead costs, limited ability to exploit tourism and ICT.Packages involving generous benefit from the African Growth & 3.9% in 1990 to a projected 6.4% in 2004. economies of scale in production, high incentives, a stronger regulatory and Opportunity Act (AGOA) , the Cotonou Private investment in hotels is expected to transport costs, associated with insularity, institutional framework, a permanent Agreement and the SADC/COMESA among be over Rs 5,000 million (US$ 183 million) in distance to markets, small cargos and high resident scheme and the integrated resort others. SMIDO is also encouraging foreign 2004 (See Chapter 6). dependence on imported raw materials and scheme targeted at expatriates. direct investment in SMEs for both regional industrial supplies. Mauritius, therefore, has and global markets. This action has also WTO Negotiations to make setting up new business easier, safer Mauritius also possesses a very liberal policy helped to bring more women into business and more profitable to attract and retain in respect of investment and investors can and improve the quality of life of families by Mauritius is dependent on import tariffs for investment. invest in all sectors of the economy through the the additional household income. 176 the generation of a large part of government various investment schemes.These are grouped 177

C HAPTER 11 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Capacity Building Government is committed to further expand ● Political and macroeconomic stability ensure faster product turnaround, shorter the country’s infrastructure that responds to which reinforce reliability in the business delivery times and more competitive prices. Mauritius has devised as series of measures International standards in terms of quality, environment and promote confidence in Niche products, emerging export markets, to improve the technical and managerial reliability and affordability. The country is international trading, improving on quality rather than quantity are capacity of businesses. Workshops and enhancing ways and means to guarantee the further challenges to meet.At local level, training sessions by WTO and UNCTAD, security of modern business services as it ● Availability of low-cost labour in the EPZ another potential market could be the have stimulated local action. The National competes globally for investment by major sector, 700,000 tourists who visit Mauritius annually. Productivity and Competitiveness Council developments in ICT (See Chapter 13). Some Mauritian entrepreneurs are already ● (NPCC),has provided emergency support to Preferential access to markets in Europe restructuring and innovating to target this enterprises that are registered with the Regional Cooperation and United States under the Cotonou market. A few of the large groups in the Agreement, Sugar Protocol and AGOA, and Council in the textile and garment industry. textile and clothing industry have taken The NPCC makes an initial assessment in a Since its independence in 1968, Mauritius has action to meet the challenge ahead and on ● Expansion of its market base through business, identifying weaknesses and core actively participated in regional organizations the SMEs side, the prospects are good. COMESA and SADC. areas that need urgent attention in order to including the SADC Trade protocol, improve enterprise productivity. The NPCC COMESA, the Indian Ocean Rim- Association Whilst industrial competitiveness is of key Further development depends upon the has also promoted Gemba Kaizen for Regional Cooperation and in Indian importance for all Mauritian enterprises, capacity to make use of the competitive workshops for greater efficiency in local Ocean Commission, (IOC). These their environmental performance should not advantage of the country in the evolving businesses and in the public sector. Since its organizations encourage cross-border trade be disregarded. Government and the market, making its geographical position and creation in 2000, the NPCC has been and investment in the region. They attract Business sector should develop a package of attractive natural environment, a strength promoting innovation as driver of foreign investment in both the manufacturing voluntary codes and policies to reduce the not just for tourism but for other business productivity growth and competitiveness. Its and services sectors. They also provide a environmental impact of industries whilst too. work is based on a close partnership stronger capacity for international enhancing efficiency. Government already has Mauritius is getting better at exploiting its between business and government and its negotiation. Mauritius has an evolving legal a stated policy to establish a National strategic location in the Indian Ocean for work has proved both popular and effective. and institutional framework to help Cleaner Production Centre; it remains to be Freeport activities. It is enhancing the companies wishing to use Mauritius as hub implemented. efficiency of its domestic industries by The Textile Emergency Support Team helps for region-wide business and a safe haven for exposing them to global competition. But to businesses to restructure and the National company headquarters with its security and In the current WTO negotiations, the progress it has to secure wider market Equity Fund-Textile Sub Fund provides financial and ICT capacities. strategy of Mauritius is targeted towards: opportunities. Its priorities are therefore to flexible terms and conditions of financing promote further innovation and develop equity and debt. The Mauritius Research The Way Ahead ● Securing a special terms for the SIDS trade in services and IT-based economic Council, set up in 1992, promotes and under the WTO Work Programme on activities. coordinates Government’s investment in Developing Resilience Small Economies, research. It advises Government on Science A key element is the role of SMEs in the and Technology issues and funds research The past strength of Mauritius in ● Seeking exemption from tariff reductions economic development of Mauritius. As the projects in areas of national priority and international trade is based on the following for both agricultural and industrial MFA agreement is nearly approaching, there encourages strategic partnerships. factors: products, is a need to redefine the national strategy to 178 179

C HAPTER 11 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● Providing adequate level of protection to use of modern communications technology. the sensitive sectors, The resources required for this shift in the balance of the economy include good 11. Trade and investment ● Preserving the margins of preferences for governance, security, the natural geographical A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet its exports, particularly sugar,textiles and and environmental assets of the island, direct Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead clothing, and air links to the major trading partners, sound development of ICT, ease of access for ● Globalisation ● Developing SIDS advocacy ● Strengthen SIDS negotiating capacity in networks SIDS coalition ● Maintaining subsidy schemes in order to inward investment and business operations, ● Renegotiation of trading ● Negotiation longer grace period for tariff compensate for its inherent cost and a resilient local population, well educated agreements cuts for items with long standing protection disadvantages in attracting investment. ● Diversifying the economy where livelihoods are at risk (sugar, textiles) and responsive to a changing world. ● Investing in education and ● New technology; less dependence on low training labour costs The challenge for Mauritius is not only to increase its share in world trade but more ● Narrow economic structure ● Shift to non sugar cane ● Intensify diversification and innovation importantly to have enough leverage to production (Fruits, vegetables, building on indigenous assets, protecting shape the WTO rules to its advantage such horticulture, fisheries, bagasse) environmental and intellectual rights ● that it can have policy spaces and conducive Managing the rise and Continued diversification decline of textiles and clothing ● Promotion of SMEs and innovation international environment to pursue its ● Growth in tourism ●Research and development in order to find development goals. Mauritius supports the ● Rise in service industries new niche areas. initiative to launch SIDS-SIDS cooperation aiming at the elaboration of a strategy for ● International and regional ● Multi regional co-operation ● Secure longer term diplomatic Developing niche products international trade negotiations. It will seek co-operation (with Africa,Asia, Indian partnerships for trade to play an assertive role on international Ocean, Indian Ocean Rim; ● Extend access facilities (setting up and bilateral with EU, USA, doing business, airline connections, regional front fully supporting the advocacy of SIDS. Australia, India, China etc), entry points) Shifting the Balance of the Economy EPA. ● Ensure high level negotiating teams in major international instances. The main priority for Mauritius is to shift the economy towards service development.This ● Further diversification ● IT ● Extend R& D offers an important new opportunity for long ● Financial services ● Reduce barriers to trade and movement term growth for many SIDS. It includes the ● Offshore business sector of labour, capital and materials development of the offshore sectors ● Medical/Pharmaceutical hub ● Tighten financial regulation and probity ● Knowledge hub ● Enhance IT capacity including financial services and information ● Promote facilities as a regional centre for and communication technology (ICT). The business conferences, regional offices ● Promote environmentally friendly banking, insurance, Freeport and stock standards for service exchange sectors are part of this process. ● developments, energy efficient and suited to the ecology. These are high value–added economic sectors that can help to overcome the

180 problems of size and isolation through their Freeport development 181

C HAPTER 11 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 11 Transport and Communications Progress Agalega is used only by the National Coast Guard for limited government and The Challenges Air Transport emergency purposes. Expansion of these Mauritius now operates its own air-traffic facilities presents a challenge for control system with satellite technology environmental protection solation and size present SIDS with major tranquillity that has been a key benefit of within an air-space of 9 million square km. challenges for developing efficient isolation itself. Increased contact with the The control system is part of the latest Air transport has played a vital role in the transport and communications. Distance out-side world also presents risks to physical I development by the International Civil development of Mauritius. It has promoted from other main centres of life and security and to health, which demand new Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Mauritius as an upmarket tourist destination commerce can result in SIDS becoming cut forms of vigilance, not necessary in past Communication and Surveillance/ Air Traffic and provided necessary air cargo facilities for off from the rest of the world, depressing times. This imprint of development of the manufacturing sector. their capacity for economic and social transport is now being extended to even the Management (CNS/ATM). This enables progress and placing heavy costs on trade. most ecologically untouched of the islands, Mauritius to operate with its own fleet, of 15 such as Agalega. aircraft, through Air Mauritius, with flights to Sea Transport In addition within each country, 26 destinations in 4 continents. In addition fragmentation across many smaller inhabited The demands of strategic military transport Mauritius is used by other airlines with In the last twenty years Port Louis has been islands can result in incoherent development, have involved the forced evacuation of the regular scheduled flights from South Africa, transformed by the provision of container inequality of access for trade, and inadequate people from the most remote of the islands UK, France, Germany, the Emirates, Austria, facilities increasing the capacity and support of specialised services and in the country, the Chagos, creating an Singapore, Madagascar, Seychelles and productivity of the harbour. The container emergencies. unresolved international diplomatic and Réunion Island. No charter flights operate to terminal covers 26 hectares with three ship- human rights issue. Mauritius to-shore post panamax gantry cranes. But economic development in SIDS can rapidly bring traffic congestion and the The air service started in 1972 with one The customs systems have been reformed Road congestion and accidents are now a severe environmental impact of pollution twelve-seat plane. Traffic has grown steadily with increased security and probity in their from motor vehicles, airplanes, sea port growing problem, deaths from which far since then to an annual total of over 2 million operations. With competitive tariffs, smooth traffic and their infrastructure requirements exceed the annual sum of all deaths from air passengers.Tourism is a major driver for industrial relations, high security and ease of and support systems. HIV/AIDS,TB, malaria and all other infectious air services, but business demand is access for refuelling and supplies, the capital diseases, in Mauritius. increasing. port attracts regional as well as local In Mauritius the principal aims for transport business, for freight and as a cruise and communications have been in Mauritius has had international sea links since destination for liners. Smaller craft use the overcoming the impact of physical isolation its discovery in the 17th century and is New levels of security have been adopted in on trade, on human development and on strategically placed on the main shipping the face of rising international concerns since adjacent marina for ocean going yachts, coherent government across the country as lanes linking Africa,Asia,Australia, Europe and 11 September 2001, including passenger and which is becoming a fresh aspect of the a whole. This has created challenges in the Far East. Port Louis harbour is the only freight screening, in-flight security and Caudan water front development. developing the means of transport and commercial port for the country. It plays a protection of the integrity of the airport communication and in protecting the key role in handling 99% of the country’s itself. The capital port has installed security country from its adverse environmental and external trade. But its position and growing systems to comply with international social impact. Increasing road, sea and air activity present major challenges to The airport in Rodrigues provides for daily standards including a Safety, Health and traffic requires space, imposes pollution of sustainable mobility in a congested capital flights from Mauritius but does not yet take Environment System. 184 the air and the land and disturbs the city. international traffic. The small airstrip in 185

C HAPTER 12 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) This will add to the existing congestion Buses and taxis together constitute 3% of the buses are five years old or more. On average operates the port, which lies within the city within central Port Louis and the roads motor vehicles on the roads; cars, dual each bus covers 150 km a day with average limits of Port Louis.The Port handles 99 % of serving the ports, unless major purpose vehicles, vans and motor cycles are gross receipts of MUR 900 (US$205). The the country’s imports and exports. The improvements are made to accommodate 82% (See Figure 12.2). During this period style of service offered is basic with little number of vessels entering and leaving Port both the increased volume and the increasing there has been a major road expansion and concession to consumer values. Common Louis has been increasing at over 4% a year; weight of the loads, especially carried by improvement programme. 98% of all roads concerns are over reliability, frequency, travel by weight goods unloaded are increasing by container lorries. are now paved and since 1999 the length of time, cleanliness, safety, lack of evening and 7% a year and goods loaded are increasing by roadway has increased by 5%, largely through week-end provision, lack of information and 11% a year. Road Transport the construction of new motor ways from of coordination between services.There are north to south of the main island. But this no published timetables or lists of routes Since 1984 the port facilities have been Roads are the only means of internal expansion of roads has not kept pace with covered and locations of stops. extensively upgraded and they are now of transport in Mauritius, which now has no the increase in vehicles using them in that the most modern in the region. Cargo railways nor inland waterways. In pace with period. Now for each registered motor facilities are forecast to grow steadily but the general economic and social development, vehicle in Mauritius there is an average 7.3 present facilities should cope with this since 1993 there has been an increase of 64% metres of roadway. With 1km of road now demand.The yearly road traffic generated by in registered vehicles. But the increase has for every one square km of land, road the port is expected to more than double by been predominantly in private vehicles rather systems are approaching the limit of the the year 2015 (from 645,000 vehicles to than in public transport. (See Figure 12.1). In carrying capacity of the available land in the 1,400,000). this period buses and taxis have increased by country. 34% but private cars by 76% and the numbers of dual purpose vehicles and vans There are over 1,800 licensed buses in have both more than doubled. Mauritius and nearly 6,000 taxis. 77% of the

The motorway: facilitating movement of traffic

186 187

C HAPTER 12 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE The dominant transport problem is the example, by raising parking tariffs in the 2000 to 6.5 billion in 2025 with 5 million Sea Port Developments severe traffic congestion within the capital and by providing peripheral parking at under the low scenario and 8 million under conurbations and especially entering Port the edge of the capital city with shuttle-bus the high. In order to accommodate this Port Louis is planning to be developed as a Louis from both directions, particularly in the facilities to the centre. growth, the Master Plan proposes the port for regional maritime operations and south, during the morning and evening peaks. following major improvements: business. Future projects include an oil Journeys of 15-20 km by car typically take terminal, extension of the container terminal, one hour during peak periods and one and a ● Construction is a new Emergency Runway and a dedicated cruise terminal with back up half hours by bus. The peak congestion parallel to the exiting one, plus passenger and freight facilities. problem has become acute in the last 5 years improvements to taxiways, or alternatively, In 2002, the MPA adopted a revised Port as more people have had access to private possibility of a replacement runway, Master Plan which covers the period up to cars and use them to go to work. This is 2025. The main improvements proposed in leading to deterioration in safety and ● Additional parking stands, the Master Plan include: environmental conditions. In the period since ● Improving safety by relocating oil tanker 1993, the number of road traffic accidents ● Expansion of the existing passenger facilities for petroleum and LPG away from terminal to the south and west, together has increased by 32% and the number of the main port area, fatalities per 100 casualties has risen by 26%. with new prices, Congestion during peak hours in the capital As a result, today wearing of crash helmets ● Expansion of Container Terminal facilities ● Construction of a new cargo terminal to for motorists and seat belts for motor The Way Ahead adjacent to the existing Mauritius the north of the passenger terminal, and vehicle drivers is compulsory. CO2 emissions Container Terminal,and from vehicles continue to rise and constitute The Civil Aviation ● Future improvements include the 29% of the total CO2 emissions in the The SSR International Airport is planned to ● Construction of a dedicated cruise relocation of the existing fuel depot to a country. Routine checks are effected by the expand to take over 3 million passengers a terminal and associated commercial new site to accommodate greater fuel Police de l’Environnement and the NTA to year, with the construction of a commercial development at a new site away from the reserve capacity to meet increased enforce the Road Traffic (Control of office precinct, a private corporate aircraft main cargo port on reclaimed land near number if aircraft movements and an area Vehicular Emissions) Regulations and regular area and a major fuel depot. It is envisaged Fort William. dedicated to hangar and maintenance. vehicle safety inspections are carried out at that the airport in Rodrigues will be vehicle examination centres. extended to take international flights. The The current Master Plan is also being airstrip in Agalega will be upgraded for updated to respond to changes in aviation Another important aspect of urban domestic passenger flights in accordance activities and take account the dynamics of congestion relates to parking in town centres with international standards. the industry. and the policies adopted for its proper management. Convenient parking is essential Current airport planning is based on the “New These developments are seen as key parts of to the life of a city and the supply of parking Master Plan for Airports in Mauritius”,a plan with the expansion of tourism, trade and must be restricted and controlled if the city a horizon date of 2025. The medium scenario commerce, allowing Mauritius to become is to function efficiently. This calls for a forecast in the Master Plan envisages the annual increasingly a regional centre for business sophisticated parking policy and government number of passengers handled by SSR access to Africa and to the Asia. 188 has already taken some initiatives for International Airport growing from 1.7 million in Container Terminal Facilities in the port 189

C HAPTER 12 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE In the long term, the Port Master Plan ● Construction is a new emergency runway To provide the basis for future transport proposes that a section of the coast between parallel to the exiting one, plus investment, Government commissioned the by means of traffic management Pointe aux Sables and Albion lighthouse be improvements to taxiways, or alternatively, Integrated National Transport Sector schemes, reserved for port-related projects, such as, possibility of a replacement runway, Strategy study (INTSS), which is a major step ● handling and storage of hazardous liquid forward in the planning and management of Emphasising maintenance and ● management of the road network, and products, when the current port area Additional parking stands, the transport sector in Mauritius. The study relatively less provision of major new reaches saturation. objectives were to formulate an integrated ● roads, and Expansion of the existing passenger strategy from which plans, policy statements With the opening of Agalega to international terminal to the south and west, together and an investment programme could be tourism, new marine facilities are needed. with new prices, ● Building some new roads to improve devised (See Box 12.1). The opportunities for establishing industrial access to economically important areas and take through traffic out of fishing add to the case for establishing a ● Construction of a new cargo terminal to towns and villages. container port there. This can only be done the north of the passenger terminal, and Box 12.1 in-land because of topographical constraints. Such innovations will allow for rapid ● Future improvements include the economic and social development on the relocation of the existing fuel depot to a The integrated transport sector One of the centrepieces of the integrated islands. But they carry the risk of substantial new site to accommodate greater fuel strategy transport system for Mauritius is the ecological impact. Close public private reserve capacity to meet increased implementation of a Light Rail Transit system partnership is necessary to ensure these number if aircraft movements and an area The main elements of the INTSS are: (LRT), to improve north-south movements initiatives can be taken forward with proper dedicated to hangar and maintenance. and facilitating park and ride to the north and attention to environmental concerns. Both ● Implementation of an alternative mode south of the capital (See Box 12.2). Mauriitus of transport between Port Louis and tourism and industrial fishing depend on The current Master Plan is also being has had no railway system since the original Curepipe in order to relieve the using natural resources in a sustainable way. updated to respond to changes in aviation wood fuelled passenger and freight train chronic traffic congestion in this New monitoring systems will be required to activities and take account the dynamics of network was dismantled in the [1950] corridor, ensure this goal is attained. the industry. ● Discouraging car trips to the town centres along the Port Louis – Current airport planning is based on the Road Transport Curepipe corridor through controls Box 12.2 “New Master Plan for Airports in Mauritius”, on the supply of parking spaces, a plan with a horizon date of 2025. The A combination of optimising use of existing Light rail transit medium scenario forecast in the Master Plan and planned transport infrastructure ● Improving the quality of bus services envisages the annual number of passengers together with support for more sustainable by restructuring the bus industry, After several studies, including a World handled by SSRIA growing from 1.7 million in modes of travel is thus a cornerstone of letting fares rise in line with costs, and Bank led multi-criteria analysis, 2000 to 6.5 million in 2025 with 5 million Government is considering the LRT future transport policy. Complementary land revising the regulatory framework so under the low scenario and 8 million under as to encourage operators to be more option.The INTSS proposed 13 access use and transport strategies are required to the high. In order to accommodate this demand-responsive, points or stations along the 25 km sustain urban and coastal tourism growth in growth, the Master Plan proposes the route, most of which are in town the future, as well as help provide new following major improvements: ● Increasing efforts to improve amenity centres. opportunities for employment in rural areas, and traffic circulation in town centres 190 which can reduce the need to travel. 191

C HAPTER 12 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 12.Transport and Communication The aim is to provide a fast, comfortable Operating characteristics of the LRT A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet service which will be attractive to car system: Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead users. Access to stations will be by an integrated system of efficient feeder ● Length of line: 24.9 km, ● Isolation ● International air links to 26 ● Expansion of international links for countries and 4 continents tourism trade and commerce buses and pedestrian networks. ● Container port in capital city, ● Running speed: 55 – 75 kph, for domestic and regional Although the LRT will not solve traffic passenger and freight business ● Average time of stops: 20 seconds, congestion on its own, a series of strong public transport policies and ● Number of stops: 13 stations, ● Security, health and safety ● International standards for ● Continued development and traffic restraint measures in the main security and health surveillance implementation of international standards in air and sea ports ● Integrated review and improvements in ● urban centres will emanate from its Journey time one-way: 32 minutes, ● Seat belts and crash helmets road safety and road transport management implementation. In fact, the integration compulsory in road transport ● between all the modes of transport Vehicle capacity: 250 per unit (500 per train), and the LRT will be the key vision of ● Inter-island transport ● Daily flights to second island ● International air links to second island (Rodrigues) and weekly sea (Rodrigues) this challenging project for the ● Vehicle length: 30 m per unit (running development of Mauritius.The project transport ● Domestic passenger air link to Agalega 2 units), and ● Emergency and government ● Container ports in Rodrigues and Agalega is planned to enter operations with air link to outer islands, six 93,000 passengers daily. ● Total vehicles required: 31 units. monthly sea transport

● Environmental impact ● Waterfront development for ● Sensitive EIA assessment for air and sea environmental enhancement ports especially in smaller islands. ● Environmental protection ● Strategic review of the future of the against pollution and from risk capital city to relieve congestion and its of air and sea port disasters adverse environmental, social and economic ● Road congestion and traffic impact pollution a growing concern especially in access to the capital city; use of lead free petrol compulsory

192 193

C HAPTER 12 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 12 Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) The Challenges

he Global Conference on the system and to ensure a growing awareness Sustainable Development of Small and development of the necessary skills TIslands Developing States specifically within the community at large. In this mentioned telecommunications and its endeavour the country needs to focus on importance to this group of countries.This is relevant capacity building world-class so because SIDS suffer from isolation. The information and communication on impact of SIDS isolation on social and infrastructure and the enabling policy economic development can be reduced by framework with the highest level of The ICT sector was open to full liberalization and consumer electronics. the development of telecommunication with Government commitment. in 2003. A new licensing framework was ICT to assist the provision of services in introduced which has resulted in new Mauritius is creating a well structured digital Government, business and the community. Progress services and new technologies such as network and offers up-to-date Progress in the development of ICT in the broadband and wireless, paving the way for telecommunication facilities. The SAFE This transition requires skill, advanced past 8 years has been rapid and has moved new generation computer linked mobile (South Africa Far East) submarine fibre optic equipment, finance and commitment in all Mauritius well into the league of upper phones. New services range from back office cable has a local landing point that enables sectors. It is not an easy process. It requires middle income countries in this field, but it operations, contact centres, disaster Mauritius to connect to the Global a shift from traditional labour-intensive has some way to go to reach the levels recovery and software development. 3000 Information Infrastructure (GII). This high industries to capital-and technology-intensive attained by the high income OECD countries new jobs have been created and investment speed link (130 Gigabits) has boosted industries. The task for Mauritius was to (See Figs 13.1) in this field has now reached more than MUR opportunities for e-commerce for the develop these complex new capacities, 1 billion (US $35 million). The international country, using the internet for business and building on its strong human-resource telecommunication service has attracted consumers. capacity, good information infrastructure and new operators, resulting in a high degree of the required commitment from competition and as a consequence a fall in Computers in Government Government. call prices of about 80%. Computerization of various governmental Mauritius has been active in the promotion The National Telecommunications Policy agencies dates back to 1989. This has been of ICT in every sector through a policy of (NTP2004) was introduced in 2004. It sets achived through both reform of legislation establishing the core technologies and out a vision for making ICT a fifth pillar of the and of the institutional framework for investing in critical projects in key sectors. Mauritian economy. It outlines the strategies development in this sector (See Box 13.1). So The principal challenge has been to promote to be adopted and the methods to be used far 55 Government departments have penetration of the technology throughout to ensure fair, effective and sustainable operational systems and 45 major projects the country in government, public services, competition. It also paves the way for are underway, with investment of MUR 750 the private sector and through the education Cyber Tower at Ebène 196 convergence of IT, broadcast media,Telecom million (US$ 26 million). 197

C HAPTER 13 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Government projects include: systems at the Computers and Business ● Low corporate tax of 15 per cent, Customs Department, Video Conferencing Central Informatics Bureau (CIB), System for the Judicial Department and the Information and Communications The Business Parks of Mauritius Ltd. (BPML) ● Free repatriation of profits, and National Pension Payment System at the Te chnologies Authority (ICTA), was set up in 2001, to spearhead the Ministry of Social Security Ministry of Information Technology development of technology parks and ● Exemption of customs duties on and Telecommunications (MITT), telecoms. A national computer centre – the equipment and raw materials. National Computer Board (NCB). Cyber City – has been established, offering Box 13.1 fibre based facilities with direct international ● A Green Visa Concept,which will allow IT ICT Government owned companies linkage. The parks and the Cyber City have firms investing in Mauritius to employ Law and institutional reform attracted several international companies, foreigners with the required skills. Business Parks of Mauritius Ltd. which use Mauritius as an information hub. The following legislation provides the (BPML), Mauritius Posts Ltd. (MPL), The growth of mobile telephony has also ● An Intensive Skills Training Programme to framework for ICT development in Mauritius Telecom (MT), Multi Carrier accelerated over the last few years as the provide a pool of IT semi-skilled and Mauritius Mauritius Ltd. (MCML), State number of providers has increased. In order skilled workers in the short term to help Informatics Limited (SIL), to increase IT penetration, financial the industry overcome constraints in some specific fields. ● The Copyright Act 1997, assistance at concessionary rates is available Private sector for individuals to purchase their own Mauritius has a sound legal framework ● Information Technology (Miscellaneous personal computers (PC). The goal is to supportive of the development of e- Provisions) Act 1998, ACT alliance, Mauritius IT Industry ensure that every household will have a PC Government and e-Business and strong and Association (MITIA) by 2005. friendly relations with the West as well as ● Telecommunications Act 1998, with India and the countries of southern and There are currently 31 licensed private The Government has increased private eastern Africa. Mauritius has invested heavily ● Electronic Transactions Act 2000, operators in the ICT sector.They offer sector participation through schemes such as in infrastructure. services ranging from fixed telephony, build-transfer (B-T) and revenue sharing ● ICT Act 2001, mobile telephony, international arrangements (RSA) in major information The Way Ahead telephony and internet services.There infrastructure building and has set up several ● The Computer Misuse and Cyber- are over 150 private computer training institutes to cope with the retraining The rapid development of technology and its crime Act 2003, and services companies operating in and upgrading of the workforce. Projects use within the country have brought new Mauritius providing computer such as the Mass Computer Awareness challenges. The skills training for ● Data Protection Act 2004. accessories, computer cabling, Program and the introduction of IT in the professionals, needs to be increased to keep consultancy services, consumables, school curriculum are expected to forge this pace with the proliferation of hardware. Major players in ICT computer games, hardware, networks, new culture among the working population. More effective use should be made of PCs. program design services, software, The Board of Investment has developed The implementation of projects needs to be Government institutions, include: training, and time recorders. terms for attracting investors in ICT to speeded up and there is a need for Board Of Investment (BOI), Central Mauritius. Businesses investing in the island strengthening monitoring and evaluation of Information Systems Division (CISD), can benefit from: the application of IT to the requirements of 198 different users. 199

C HAPTER 13 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE An e-Government Master Plan has also been export of financial, consulting, trade, The success of the strategy will depend elaborated with the assistance of the communications, education, and other greatly on rapid development of trained Commonwealth Secretariat. The Ministry of information-intensive services. professional and technical staff in the public Information Technology and The way ahead for Mauritius hinges on and private sectors. The University, and Telecommunications is pressing all Ministries exploiting its strategic position in the Indian training centres are extending the range and and Departments to develop their own e- Ocean to realise its ambition to become an number of courses to meet the increasing business plans, to focus on the electronic ICT hub in the region.To meet the increasing demand.This is being supported through the delivery of their services. expectations and demand from business and computer education and training in schools, community users, Mauritius is: public training in computer literacy and job To meet the challenges from international related schemes for the benefit of school competitors, Mauritius has taken steps to ● Promoting a computer in every home, and leavers (See Chapter 15). boost productivity, quality, and technology. It Banks are offering soft loans for purchasing The environmental impact of ICT is evident has implemented a program to introduce equipment, in the extension of overhead power cables, productivity measurement at both the the erection of mobile phone relay company and sectoral levels, along with ● Setting up Community Access Points for structures, satellite dishes, the use of mobile productivity awareness campaigns. It has also people at public places, such as Post phones in the street, and illegally by drivers set up the Mauritius Technology Diffusion Offices, of motor vehicles, and the disposal of Scheme, a demand-responsive means to computer waste. These present fresh issues promote private sector delivery of ● Setting up a Universal Service Fund to to be addressed. technology services. To ensure quality, the promote wider national access at local Government has developed an integrated level, and 13. ICT A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet MSTQ (metrology, standards, testing, and quality) strategy for execution by the ● Promoting easy and affordable access to Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead Mauritius Standards Bureau. telecommunication, especially through the ● Technology development in ● Law reform and institutional ● Development of regulatory framework internet. public and private sectors change with licensing, guidelines and monitoring ● Physical networks systems Mauritius is looking at a single smart card ● Industrial base that will allow the public to hold their The e-Government programme is being ● Government projects ● Business support and driver’s license, small amounts of funds that further developed to provide access to and incentives can be used for small transactions, and their within Government departments and to ● ● Recruitment of experts ● health and other social security information. provide computer support to the delivery of Human resources Further professional development and development ● Education and training training their services, with Government On-line

Mauritius is strongly developing ICT in both Centre (GOC), Government Intranet ● Community access ● Access in schools and ● Extension of educational development the public and private sectors. New ISP systems (GINS) and Public Key Infrastructure colleges programme ● Mobile service ● Target for a computer in every home licenses will be granted to promote the (PKI). ● Service through Post Offices expansion of the Internet Community and ● ● Power lines ● Review of environmental impact encourage competition in this sector. Long- Environmental impact ● Mobile phone relay structure ● Recycling programme 200 range plans include the development and ● Computer waste 201

C HAPTER 13 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE C HAPTER 13 Education The key factors in past achievements have been based on a number of factors including ● The University of Mauritius working The Challenges public and private partnership in school and closely with business and commerce generates 15% of its income from non community based developments and the government sources, maintenance of strong professional links with mall islands have a major challenge in progress in Mauritius. Government centres abroad (See Box 14.1). adapting education in pace with expenditure on education has risen to 12% ● Use of broadcast media for adult education and distance leaning, Stechnical and social change. They lack of GDP.The Youth literacy rates (15-24 years) the advantages of economies of scale in is now 94%. 95% of children of primary Box 14.1 ● Health and progress monitoring for producing teachers, and in specialization both school age go to school. But only 64% of Key facilities in progress of students, in schools and in tertiary education. An those of secondary school age continue in education educated population of young people and of school and only 11% are in tertiary education ● Youth programmes beyond school and adults, is an essential requirement for (See Figure 14.1).This presents a substantial ● National primary education for all, college on civic responsibility, sustainable development. It is a vital element challenge to the country for the future; how environment, health and social action, in promoting resilient adaptation to the to increase secondary and tertiary education ● National secondary education up to shocks of natural and other global events and to the levels being achieved in the more age 16 years, ● Te r tiary education, training and processes, to which small islands are specially developed countries. For example, whereas professional development abroad, for vulnerable. Science based education for all, only 11% of young people are in tertiary ● Building programme for new exchange programmes and links to provides a sound basis for understanding the education in Mauritius, in Bahrain there are secondary schools to meet the new centres of excellence, commitments, links that bind the survival of people to the 25% and in Barbados 39%. The rapid ● The Mauritius College of the Air quality of their environment. development of the economy with more ● Partnership between in primary (MCA), a parastatal body under the specialisation and more dependence on education provides for 75% public Ministry of Education and Scientific Progress technical content demands an increasing level sector and 25% in jointly funded or Research, was set up in 1985 to of education which the facilities have not private funded schools, promote adult education, arts, science Educational development has been a key been able to supply. and culture, generally through mass component of economic and social growth ● 6th Form Colleges for all with abilities, media and distance education methods. It aims at providing equity in ● Expansion of tertiary education to education and supporting teaching and include university and vocational learning and improving access, and training, ● The Mauritius Institute of Education, ● Specialist education for disabled now over 30 years old students, promotes:educational research and curriculum development; advanced ● Priority zone investment to promote learning and knowledge in education; better school performance in teacher education responsive to the disadavantaged and remoter parts of social, linguistic, administrative, 204 the country, 205

C HAPTER 14 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE and learning, is the country’s determination scientific, agricultural and technological to face the social and economic challenges of ● Pre-vocational education for those not needs of Mauritius; a programme on the 21st century, to meet the requirements pursuing an academic syllabus, Pre-Vocational Education for teachers; for a competent and skilled workforce and to An MA in education in collaboration make further advances in social and cultural ● Joint planning with the non with a UK university; In-service skills development.This has required reform of the government sector, training for teachers, scope and content of the syllabus and the ● The National Inspectorate has a unit of process of learning (See Box 14.2) ● Te r tiary education opportunities Pre-Vocational Inspectors who provide include the University of Mauritius,The advice and run in-service courses to University of technology (commerce, harmonize teaching strategies around Box 14.2 business, management, technology, Newly built secondary school at Palma the new curriculum, and Reform of the scope and content linked to government, business and ● Evaluation and adaptation of of education industry), IVTB, Medical School and The Way Ahead innovations in the light of experience. Dental School, Schools of Nursing, ● The primary syllabus now covers School of Catering and hotel Despite past achievements and recent major citizenship, art, information technology, management, business schools, a reforms that are being introduced, much remains to be done to match the educational history and geography, health, physical variety of courses for specific capacity to the future needs and aspirations education, including environmental vocational training (See Chapter 15), of the country. Further key developments issues and 2 hours a week on remedial plus national and private sponsorship that are planned and underway cover further for education and professional training literacy and numeracy to overcome development of physical facilities, abroad, multi-language challenges of improvements in support facilities, and in disadvantaged groups, quality assessment (See Box 14.3). ● Use of mother tongue for remedial ● The new development of national students, compulsory secondary education for Box 14.3 all will promote equal access to ● ICT programme with facilities for all Further sustainable developments secondary education for all parts of schools and tertiary institutions, and for education Promoting Science in schools the country, and ensure better quality The reformed educational system in of teaching and performance review ● Continuous education programme for Developments planned or already Mauritius is aimed at developing a well- backed up by continuous professional teachers and a new focus on quality being undertaken include: educated, skilled and mobile labour force for education programme for teachers standards. a greater economic dynamism and to and university degree requirement for Assessment at key stages through a increase the capacity of the country for the secondary school teachers, National Assessment Framework management and use of knowledge to enhance social, cultural and technical ● Literacy and numeracy strategy with School Information and resilience. The motivation behind the reform extra tuition in all schools to achieve Communications Technology 206 and development of all aspects of education higher standards, Project (SITP) 207

C HAPTER 14 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE key asset, Mauritius had no other choice but To promote the usage of ICT as a Ter tiary Sector and open learning (DEOL) for capacity to heavily invest in education in order to supporting and enabling tool for building, gradually emerge from an isolated pin-point education and for e-learning with the ● A White Paper on Tertiary Education is in the midst of the Indian Ocean to become construction of a new IT laboratory in being prepared to pave the way for ● The minimum qualification for primary a respected partner on the regional scale. each school and establishing as a first increasing access to the Tertiary Level, school teachers is now ‘A’ levels rather With the current ongoing reforms, it is the phase IT laboratories in 50 primary than the previous ‘O” level aim of the country to now fully prepare itself schools around the island every year. ● New ventures for online and distance requirements, and to new international challenges and create education through an Open Learning the appropriate conditions conducive to Improving School Management and Institute of Mauritius (OLIM), and ● At the secondary level an all-graduate lifelong learning. Leadership profession, (59% of the current ● Private sector developments in secondary teachers are graduates). The concept of education must embrace the Training provision for prospective medicine, dentistry, business studies whole of society.Those at school and college, heads of schools prior to and after and management, hotel and catering. those of working age in paid employment or selection. Mauriitius is also playing a pivotal role in elsewhere, and seniors. A knowledge based society needs continually to expand the Quality Education and Key Role of regional education and educational culture of learning, to cover new and Use of Mother Tongue as language Teachers development, through new forms of of Instruction partnership involving the public sector, the indigenous knowledge, work and leisure activities. Health and environmental ● Quality assurance mechanism inbuilt in private sector, local and international ngos education is an essential part of life-skills for One factor identified as the cause of all Teacher Education (TE) and civil society.These include (examples to promoting a greener safer and sustainable low achievement at primary level is the programmes, be added; e.g medical and dental education, use of a foreign language as the ICT, specialist professional training and environment for future generations; a key to medium of medium. development, University linkages with adaptation of damaging patterns of The use of mother tongue as the Australia, UK, France, India etc). The freer consumption and production. Mauritius, to ● Opinion surveys as the basis for the overcome its geographical and professional medium of instruction in lower improvement of forthcoming TE movement of labour across the region and isolation, has a growing practice of sharing primary will be piloted in two primary programmes, through global partnerships will promote this schools. trend. The ease of doing business with knowledge with other SIDS, through centres Mauritius is a key factor in attracting and of excellence, through networking and ● Reform of pre- and in-service exchange programmes.This has become part Type of Secondary Education education with greater emphasis being sustaining such co-operation. of the normal pattern of development. placed not only on the development of Education and Development A new system of post ‘O’ level professional skills and values but also polytechnic education is being planned at promoting more autonomy, The role of education should be to build a for those students, after the innovation, reflection and career-long Mauritian Society made up of self reliant completion of 11 year schooling, development, would rather opt for a different type of individuals able to take control of their own lives, to make their own choices and fulfil education that is closer to the world ● Voluntary career-long professional their own potentials. Being a relatively young of work. development with distance education 208 nation, with its human resource being its only 209

C HAPTER 14 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 14. Education A Policy and Programme Progress sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Primary education ● Primary education for all country- ● ICT programme and Overcoming wide ● Further support for disadvantage and illiteracy ● Remedial support in mother remoter communities tongue

● Secondary ● Secondary school entrance by ● Polytechnic programme education exam ● Further development of distance ● Secondary school for all (From learning 2004)

● Scholarships abroad ● Te r tiary education ● White Paper on Tertiary Education ● University of Mauritius to meet the needs ● Open learning facilities (OLIM) of development ● Industrial and Vocational Training Board

● Improving quality ● Mauritius Institute of Education ● New assessment systems and professional ● Inspectorate ● Management training standards ● Continuing education programme ● Opinion surveys for teachers

● Working with the ● Private professional education : ● Joint planning private sector medicine, dentistry, business ● New developments in religious schools studies, and remedial therapies ● New ventures in continuing professional education

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C HAPTER 14 Training and Skills made easier and investment in promising ● Provide job-specific training to give Development new ventures faster and more sustained. In added value to the employers. The Challenges brief, Mauritius is now providing the climate for a more alert and responsive market. This is a formidable task in any country, but there Box 15.1 IDS have common constraints to rapid those with new skills in manufacturing is some success to report from Mauritius Training and skills development adaptation of technology through skills industry, construction and in services and a which demonstrates a new resilience to the responding to the market training, because of their small size and lag-time in the response of the labour S changing pressures of the world economy. isolation.Training is becoming recognised as a market. But, it is also an indicator of Initiatives in progress which respond vital tool for securing sustainable adaptability of the economy itself. No Training is fast becoming a key component of to the training needs of the emerging development in Mauritius, both within the developing country can survive without action in all sectors. It is a vital tool for sectors and to develop a versatile and public and the private sector. structural change and that increases the risk Mauritius to enhance its economic skilled work-force, include: Over the past thirty years, Mauritius has of unemployment. The resilience of the performance and compete in the global achieved sustained economic and social labour market to change is a key to resolving setting .The Ministry of Training, Skills ● On the job training for one year for development in a competitive and ever- this social and economic problem. The Development and Productivity (MTSDP) has graduates, those with diplomas and changing world economy. This has not been principal tools are training and raid a key role to play in the achievement of the school leavers with HSC: 279 easy. But Mauritius has adapted its sectoral redeployment resources into innovative Government's economic and social unemployed degree holders and 83 structure, established new patterns of enterprises. People have to become multi development objectives and could maximize diploma holders were placed on the production and service delivery, skilled and sectors have to be quicker in its contribution.The role of the MTSDP is to scheme for 2003 - 2004. incorporating major technological changes responding, to keep up to date with new set national human resource development and new means of communication. These technology and ideas. and training policy. ● Promoting creativity and have been accompanied by changes in Over the period 1970 to 1995, the economy innovation in local business through Mauritius in social values, attitudes and inter- Progress of Mauritius grew by an average of 5.6 per NPCC Productivity Committee (PC) relationships and also in social tensions and cent a year - a remarkable achievement. comprising representatives from some challenges. This process can only be The new orientation of education and Between 1995 and 2020, the National Long- twenty public and private sector continued with increased capacity for training policy and programmes developed in Term Perspective Study envisages a rate of institutions. adaptation of people, not only to the current the past decade aims to meet this challenge. economic growth that is equally fast, or even changed structure but for continual It provides people, of all ages, with more ● faster.The training plan aims to: Hotel and restaurant trades adaptation in the future. appropriate skills and experience to meet Mauritius training for the hotel and changing patterns of work. ● Combine training programmes with tourist sector with special skills in Unemployment is a growing concern in work experience, management, professional and Mauritius. Workers and employees are no With jobless growth in an economy through technical skills, with class room, longer secure for life in any job whether in increasing automation and labour ● Provide training with work placements practical and on the job training. the public or the private sector. Partly this is productivity, training must also provide skills an outcome of a decline in demand for that enable many people to become self- ● Training for the financial services ● Allow employers to vet potential unskilled labour in agriculture, an increase in employed and to set up their own sector, for offshore financial services employees on the job, and 212 demand for better educated people and for businesses. Starting up businesses is being 213

C HAPTER 15 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE and switches of stream to help late effectively to the signals of changing demand. through the Mauritius Offshore hour "Information Technology -E- developers; .The emphasis will also shift Fixing this is a major challenge. The market Business Activities Authority Business" course, 930 registered; Call from learning facts by note to learning to may not provide adequate data and may not (MOBAA) for accountants, lawyers Centre Operations course for school think, analyse, explore, and develop the rapidly adjust, sustain and co-ordinate the and tax specialists to perform to certificate holders; Diploma Course in originality and creative talents, and also overall pattern of training activity. the technical skills, and international standards. IT ; a National Training Programme for the training of 5,000 SC and HSC During the past quarter of a century, ● Legal framework: sound regulatory ● New pathways for training for holders over the next two years in government policies in many countries have framework for the development of the moved away from rigid, restrictive education entry, exit and re-entry, through new skills related to call centres and BPO training & employment sector, covering and training systems with limited access, National Qualifications Framework activities. vocational training provision, financing by (NQF) promoted by The Mauritius levy, skills assessment, accreditation. clearly defined pathways and few cross Qualifications Authority (MQA), with linkages. Most developed economies are emphasis on proper assessment and Lessons Learned striving to adjust the structure, organization certification of courses, and a system and content of education and training to the of quality assurance. The conclusion of most evaluations of rapidly and constantly changing demands of training programmes for unemployed youth the economy and society.As a result, they are ● The setting up of the IVTB is that more needs to be done to make the moving away from state run centralized School of IT at Ebène the Cyber-city. impact of training more positive to raise systems to new more fluid integrated incomes and job offers after training. New systems to offer: ● The IVTB pilot programme for mechanisms are needed to overcome the ● computer awareness among risk of training programmes just increasing increased variety and flexibility, households as a pre-operational expectations without creating new jobs.The ● training incentive. introduction of free voluntary secondary postponed choices, Hotel School of Mauritius education in 1976 has now been made ● multi-point entry and exchange, ● A mobile training unit known as A New Framework For Training, Skills compulsory with a major development of “Caravane de la Formation” by the Development and Productivity new secondary schools and six form ● overall policy making and coordination, and IVTB with the Trust Fund for Social colleges. The IVTB was set up in 1989, to Integration of Vulnerable Groups Progress is being built on the following deliver training only in skill areas identified as key elements being of national importance but where no ● A strategy to improve opportunities through formal partnerships and ● IVTB training programme for re- provision was available.The intention was to ● Institutional framework: Government, collaboration with delegated authority skilling of the ex-sand extractors, encourage other providers to take over such training bodies, employers and trade downwards and accountability upwards following Government decision to training, but this has not happened and seems unions, to achieve a highly adaptable, versatile cease extraction of sand from the unlikely to happen in the future. The main stakeholders in training in Mauritius argue and up-to-date labour force. lagoon ● Human development: Skills and that there should be a separation of policy competence, ranking and competition at The way ahead will be charted by divesting ● Special training courses in IT: for an early age, continuous assessment, and training delivery, with more being left to activities from the State where better value 214 the unemployed HSC holders:A 300- opportunities for repeats, 'remediation' market forces which can respond more 215

C HAPTER 15 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE for money can be obtained by transferring provide increasing opportunities. Such The economic infrastructure will be Reforms in the education and training them to the private sector. The public opportunities are not, however,just there for upgraded. Greater efficiency in sectors will promote greater resilience in the organisations that can be run along the taking; we must develop the capacity to management will be secured through labour market.These include: commercial lines will be given more identify them in time and to implement setting out clear,measurable objectives autonomy and made to operate under sound projects and programmes successfully in the and monitoring their attainment, while ● Remedial training programmes for business practices.The proceeds of any sales world market. greater efficiency in use will be disadvantaged groups, including the poor, will then be available for much needed achieved through the phased to improve skill levels and employability, investment in economic and social Mauritius has come a long way; but has far to introduction of more realistic charging ● New courses designed to improve the restructuring - for example, in skills and go. Mauritius has already made an impact on regimes. There will be investment to relevance, flexibility, accessibility and Information Technology (IT) development and the region far beyond its size - as a provide further expansions in major reach of the mainstream training system, physical infrastructure such as better road responsible world citizen and as an areas such as water supply, sewerage links, environmental protection and safety. impressive example of rapid economic and waste disposal, electricity, ● Competency-based training, involving the growth, effective environmental telecommunications and air, sea and recognition of knowledge and skills Reform in training, will require teachers to preservation, and steady social progress in a road transport. One thing’s for sure: acquired through practical experience to adopt major changes in attitude and methods multicultural society, all in the context of free the future will be no mere extension of improve access to further training of and entail major additional investment in the democratic institutions. the past.We’ll need quicker reflexes to people who learned informally through public and the private sector. There will be survive in the changing times; more practical work, more scope for part-time and flexi time It will play a still more impressive role in the and better training is a good bet for working, giving more opportunity for work future through 'economic diplomacy', that. ● Matching people’s education, training and to suit individual needs and preferences. For extending the scope of its economic growth preferences to the jobs that are in fact increasing numbers of people with jobs through extra-territorial development The way ahead available, based on IT, there will be opportunities for projects, expansion of higher education, telework, enabling them to work from their research and regional headquarters, ● Career guidance, both for students and To be successful world competitors as a SIDS own homes, or local business premises on increased entrepot activity through the for adult workers, in a rapidly changing global economy, contract without the time, cost and Freeport and active participation in the Mauritius, must go for world-class standards. environmental problems associated with various regional trade and economic ● New work experience programmes, and Literacy and numeracy is not enough. A daily journeys to and from centralized places groupings. modern state depends on building up a top ● of work. A computer-based labour market quality labour force, with results-based information system to enable employers However, we cannot predict the future, at and employees to match their needs on a But these fruits of a sharper focus on least not in detail or with certainty, but we innovative managers, building up knowledge comprehensive national basis. technology and higher productivity in a fully can do much to shape it for the better, by based businesses, with enterprising and well competitive economy have to be earned. It thinking clearly and acting early - analysing qualified workers with high skills, high means learning faster and working smarter longer-term developments, identifying future motivation and pay that is linked to results. than our competitors. Economic integration threats and opportunities, clarifying the kind Such training delivered by the IVTB is funded within an ever-widening framework of of future we would like and can realistically by a levy on wage bills which gives sharp regional associations, the offshore sector, the hope to attain, and working out the means cutting edge to the design and delivery of the Freeport and the exploitation of our for helping bring it about. courses. 216 Exclusive Economic Zone will certainly 217

C HAPTER 15 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE 15.Training, Skills Development and Productivity A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Structural change in labour ● Incentives for retraining ● Faster response to continued market ● Mechanisation development ● Specialisation ● More employment of women ● Fewer jobs for life

● Institutional development ● IVTB ● New more flexible contracts for ● SMIDO trainers ● NPCC ● Continuous professional education ● ISO and updates ● HRDC ● Further institutional development ● MQA

● Private sector training schools ● Public private partnership ● Work-experience ● programmes Professional and technical schools ● Private sector financing of training courses

● ● Monitoring and evaluation ● Labour market information Results based management system ● Medium term expenditure framework ● Continual assessment

218

C HAPTER 15 Reform of the State Box 16.1 ● SMIDO: promoting small and medium The Challenges Cutting the size of the state sized business,

The scope and content of state ● National Transport Authority, eople in Mauritius and in other SIDS Progress Made activities in Mauritius has been cut by ● Financial Services Authority, want the State to do more and costs two main mechanisms privatisation less.The State has to be resilient to the The shape of the State and its role in the and transfer to parastatal bodies. P ● National Economic and Social Council, changing needs of the country. Greater country are being transformed.The services run by the State have become fewer, better, The principal new corporate bodies economic interdependence, the opening up faster and more efficient. created in this process include ● Mauritius Oceanography Institute, of economies and the growing importance of international relations, put pressure on the The reform of the State in Mauritius has Privatised former state functions In addition there have been State to reform. It is moving. It is becoming been in three parts: such as: developments in the private sector more responsive to the needs of customers which provide services competing with in the public and private sector, to the ● Cutting the size and scope of State ● Air Mauritius, the state services or alternatives in electorate, to the views of NGO’s, to the run activities, by privatization, terms of their form of delivery or transferring operational services to leaner location, plus private services on opportunities of the global market, to ● Mauritius Telecom, more managerially competent parastatal contract to the state, the wider international law and global commitments. It bodies, promoting more joint public- ● Mauritius Post Office Ltd, promotion of joint public-private is seeing its role more as a facilitator of private sector initiatives, wider sector initiatives and the greater development, a stimulus to the private involvement of people in private sector ● MBC; broadcasting, participation of people in private sector,a regulator to deal with market failure partnership through businesses and the property ownership, savings and capital private property market and a provider of governmental support and ● Mauroil, investment. These changes include: essential services. These innovations have ● Reform within the State sector, with a ● Private medical services, come about as part of a long process of focus on results, cost-effectiveness, ● CEB: electricity supplier, and integrated change, responding to consumer satisfaction, speed and quality, opportunities and pressures. They have not less constrained by the unsuited ● Private ‘bus companies. ● Private schools, been part of a predetermined and evaluated inheritance of bureaucratic centralised ● Private construction services, master plan. But this does not deny their government procedures Para-statal bodies carrying out scale nor their significance as milestones in former state functions and new ● Transforming the interface between functions for the state but not part ● Private security companies, the reform of the state. the State and the world beyond, of the civil service, such as: reducing the barriers to inward ● Consultancy and technical advisory The challenge is how far this process of investment, with free movement of capital ● University of Mauritius, services, reform can sharpen the focus on sustainable and labour, greater transparency and development as more of the key sectors probity in cross border financial ● IVTB; providing vocational training, ● ICT developments, and move away from direct control; and how far transactions and security against fraud and money laundering, the promotion of a new instruments for promoting ● Waste management, ● Expansion of private ownership of virile offshore sector for trade and finance, property and businesses. environmental priorities will achieve the aims and better regulation of the private sector ● Office cleaning, 220 of a greener and more sustainable development . and financial institutions 221

C HAPTER 16 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE core element in the Public Sector. These vehicle of the Gemba Kaizen approach Box 16.2 ideas from home and abroad are principles aim at: strengthening the system imported from Japanese management Reform within the State Sector reviewed by Task groups of senior and work processes in a consistent and practice. The aim of the approach is to officers, trade unions and the private standardized manner motivate and support workers at the place of The principal objectives of the sector. Activities are organized by the work itself, to identify, reduce and eliminating, those aspects of their work and reforms, promoted through the Ministry of Civil Service Affairs and ● Reviewing re-engineering existing the workplace which provide no added value Ministry of Civil Service Affairs and Administrative Reforms in practices by streamlining the procedures and establishing performance standards, to the services or products they produce Administrative Reforms are: collaboration with the Mauritius (the waste or the mudas). The approach Standards Bureau, the Mauritian ● Promoting transparency, revolves around five core methods in which ● More effectiveness and efficiency, Quality Institute and the National the workers directly participate with the Productivity and Competitiveness ● Enhancing team spirit, and stimulation of trained motivators: ● Faster and better quality services for Council. ● Pursuing a quality culture in the the public, ● seiri (sorting), organization.

● Better skills and aptitudes, and Public and Private Sector Developments ● seiton (arranging), Tw elve organisations including one

specialised hospital have so far been ISO ● ● A better deal to attract and retain the The promotion of the reform of the civil seiso (cleaning), certified and twelve other organisations best for the public services. service has gone hand in hand with covering a wide array of government ● seiketsu (maintaining), and developments in better management in the functions and targeting different types of Mechanisms for achieving these private sector. New ideas and institutions customers are implementing these principles. ● shitsuke (self-discipline). objectives include: contributing to both public and private sector improvements have been a key part of A Ministerial Steering Committee promotes Some 900 public officers followed the ● Total Quality Management Framework, this development process and are described and monitors the projects and momentum is sensitisation programmes and training below. The state is also playing a significant workshop sessions on Gemba Kaizen maintained with a Public Service Quality ● ISO standards, and role in transforming its interface with the principles, ranging from 3-5 days, covering 21 Association of those who have been ISO private at home and abroad. Progress has Ministries and Departments including three certified. The independent Mauritius ● The Gemba Kaizen principles of better been made in opening doors to inward Regional Hospitals. Standards Bureau is the certification body to quality service at the workplace. investment with new schemes of incentives. ensure that the systems put in place meet Improvement of counter services, The role of corporate financial regulation has The results appear to have been remarkable, objective standards and make a real popular and immediate.They aim to produce: been enhanced with more ministerial difference in the quality of services. ● Citizens’ Charters for a more leadership to achieve greater probity and ● Less waiting time, customer-oriented approach, transparency (See chapter 11). Gemba Kaizen Principles ● Better counter services, The reforms are promoted through a ISO Standards The MCSA & AR, working with the National Steering Committee chaired by a Productivity and Competitiveness Council ● Better patterns of work, and Private Sector representative. Reform ISO standards have been adopted widely in (NPCC), are promoting improvement in 222 the private sector. Now they are becoming a performance at the workplace through the ● Better service to customers. 223

C HAPTER 16 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Longer term evaluation is needed to assess ● Customers’/Citizens’ Charters, setting Training Needs Analysis Shifting from a procedure-based approach to how far the impact produces sustainable out standards customers’ rights and establishment control and making the leap results extending the methods of efficiency responsibilities, and A Training Needs Assessment for the whole into more proactive management of human review beyond the pilot schemes to the Civil Service. is being undertaken with resources in the public sector, remains a ● culture of whole organisations. Code of Ethics for Public Officers, with a technical assistance from India. major challenge ahead. The development of training programme. a management culture, performance related Customer Friendly Services Personnel Management Manual pay, merit awards, promotion on quality of Performance Management achievement and potential rather than A variety of initiatives have been Personnel management is being strengthened seniority, accelerated development of ‘high Performance Management is being promoted implemented to improve customer in the public sector. Innovations include: flyers’, graduate recruitment, recruitment to improve management in the public sector. satisfaction and to respond to the challenges A comprehensive Personnel Management from the private sector and from abroad, The system which is in its pilot stage is of globalisation and the growing demand by Manual to provide guidelines and procedures short term performance linked contracts and providing essential information for knowledgeable customers for quality, timely that ensure standardisation in the application other managerial approaches to human monitoring and evaluation. It is reinforced by and cost-effective public services.There have of rules, regulations and conditions of service resource development, widely adopted in a results-based budget system, and a Medium been a number of other influences on this in the public sector. It aims to help personnel more developed countries, have been under Term Expenditure Framework with a three process. Developments in the private sector staff to increase the effectiveness of the active discussion for some time, but are in year perspective.This gives emphasis to: in Mauritius have changed the pattern of service and avoid anomalies. their infancy in Mauritius, doing business in banks, superstores, private ● programme planning, clinics, private schools and places of leisure The Ministry has developed a system to Occupational Safety and Health

and entertainment. Images of life in private ● cost-effectiveness, computerise the personnel system for all advertising have had their impact on values officers of the civil service. The Centralised In 1999, an occupational Safety and Health and aspirations. The standards adopted in ● bench marking, Personnel System (CPS) is an online Unit was set up in the public sector to the tourist industry, a major employer in the interactive system designed to enhance ensure compliance with the provisions of the country, have also had their knock-on effect ● Performance indicators human resource management. Occupational, Safety and Health and Welfare in forming a vision of what can be done. Implementation of this system will result in Act ● outputs, and better monitoring of the work force, These changes now affecting the public processing of letters and readily available ● promote the safe and healthy work ● sector as well include: productivity. reports such as staff lists. environment of public officers in the Civil Service, ● Better physical facilities for customer ICT Training Programme for Public Officers A Computerised Attendance System (CAS), for ● provides training to different target services, the recording of attendance through the use of groups, and E-Government Initiatives are being personal magnetic cards, an electronic time ● Training in customer care, developed in all Ministries. to create a critical recorder equipped with a proximity card reader ● carry out site visits and investigations. mass of staff to sustain the E-Government linked to a central computer. This is aimed at ● New Counters for staff giving direct project. So far 5000 public officers have promoting a new work culture in the organisation services to the public, received training. characterised by more self-discipline, and a new 224 attitude towards shouldering responsibilities. 225

C HAPTER 16 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Major challenges for health at work are in Law Reform and the Public Sector NEPAD and Public Sector Reform ● ‘e-Africa’ initiative for good governance. reducing accidents and injury at work, including road accidents amongst Radical reform of the public sector is Mauritius is actively involved in reform CAPAM professional drivers, and in promoting health inhibited by the existing laws based on the initiatives being undertaken in the African in the face of the growing problem of non- colonial system. Law reform is underway region under the auspices of NEPAD Mauritius is a member of the through the work of a high level Committee. communicable diseases in Mauritius, especially in the context of the Stellenbosch Commonwealth Association for Public whose task is to design to define the especially heart disease, diabetes, mental Declaration. Mauritius participated attended Administration and Management (CAPAM). statutory basis for public sector reform. illness and the risk factors at work which the 4th Pan-African Conference of Ministers This organisation is dedicated to contribute to these problems. Creating a Code on Corporate Governance for in 2003 whose objectives were: strengthening public management and healthier physical and psychological Mauritius consolidating democracy and good environment at work is becoming a criterion ● to develop a common understanding of governance throughout the Commonwealth. of the best employers; the public sector aims In line with the provisions of the Code on the challenge of public sector reform in In 2004 with CAPAM Mauritius organized an to be in the forefront of development. Corporate Governance for Mauritius, Africa, International Seminar on “Implementing a worked out at by the Committee on Public Sector Performance Management ● to define the long-term agenda, and Industrial Relations Corporate Governance work is being System” in Mauritius. undertaken to promote the highest norms ● to develop a reform programme. The primary objective of the Industrial of corporate behaviour are complied with in Commonwealth Secretariat state owned enterprises, to improve Relations Unit is the maintenance and effectiveness, and probity and to protect the Mauritius with Rwanda now represents the promotion of good and harmonious A Commonwealth Technical Adviser has public interest Eastern Region on the Committee of industrial relations within the public sector been assisting Mauritius in the development Ministers to provide leadership, guidance and with new understandings between of a road map for administrative reform Mauritian Quality Institute (MQI) oversight over the implementation of the management and staff representatives. strategies for the period 2001 – 2003. programme on Governance and Public The Mauritian Quality Institute is promoting Administration adopted by Ministers who A consensual approach is adopted to find a Total Quality Culture in the Public Service The Way Ahead attended the conference. solutions to problems by way of effective through a joint venture with government set communication, and dialogue through the up in 2002. . Mauritius has been modernising the Public CAFRAD processes of negotiations, consultations, Action includes: Sector, reducing its size through selected mediation and conciliation. cases of privatisation, creating new corporate ● Through the African Training and Research A Task Force on Quality Management, bodies for major operational services, and Centre in Administration for Development Civil Service Library shifting the rest of the public sector into a ● The Excellent Customer Service Award (CAFRAD) established by African new managerial gear for faster better quality Scheme in the Public Service, governments with the support of UNESCO, A modern public sector library now widely services for the public. Much is being done to the following initiatives are underway: used by civil servants has been set up to provide ● Training for public officers in Customer enhance the image of Mauritius abroad as t a up-to-date materials for reference including Care, and ● Charter for Public Service in Africa, secure and profitable business hub for the books, periodicals, reports, audiovisual materials region. on latest trends in management around the ● Outstanding Achievement Public Officer ● Africa Day of the Civil Service and 226 world, internet and photocopying facilities. Award. Administration, and 227

C HAPTER 16 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Mauritius aims to attract the big players and for them to see the country as an efficient, lively business and financial centre of probity where it is good to wet up business. On the domestic front, the large utilities have more work ahead to develop a customer friendly style which reflects the growing consumer orientation of the people, looking for value for money and courteous and efficient customer relations.The private sector is showing a strong lead in this field. Progress has been made in state services.This is a start.The road ahead is long.

16. Reform of the State A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Cutting the size of the ● Privatisation ● Further institutional development for state sector ● Parastatal development state run operational services ● Sharpening the management of parastatal ● Joint public-private sector bodies initiatives ● Promoting wider participation in private investment

● Reforming the civil service ● Results based management ● Performance related contracts ● Quality and efficiency ● Benchmarking and service related resource improvements allocation ● Promotion of customer ● Evidence based service development friendly services

● Transforming the interface ● Opening the door to inward ● Freer movement of capital and labour between the state and the investment within the region outside world ● Corporate financial ● Consumer based regulation of utilities regulation to promote probity ● Further streamlining of permits for and transparency business starts ● One stop shops for business starts

228

C HAPTER 16 17. Rodrigues and the outer government, narrow economic base, (mainly islands Principal challenges: Improvement in subsistence agriculture and fishing, livestock The Challenges basic services (water sanitation, waste breeding, handcrafts small scale local management, sea and air transport, tourism); its fragile ecology; underdeveloped power, education and welfare), to public services including water and solation is a common feature of SIDS, support new economic developments sanitation, education, health; and a small especially in the remoter separated parts responsibilities. Undertaking major of tourism and deep sea fishing. traditional business sector with little of each island state. Separation and I Development of island community technical development. These factors have isolation can give rise to major challenges in improvements in basic infrastructure representation. been holding back progress and discouraging resolving local concerns on governance, and public services including water, investment. equality of opportunity, inequalities in social sanitation, power, education, health, These remoter islands have 3% of the development, health, security and service roads, air and sea ports, ICT. population of the country and cover provision.The Republic of Mauritius consists 6% of the total land area. Key challenges are the diversification of the of three populated islands each with its The Cargados Carajos islands, economy with developments in eco-tourism specific challenges (See Box 17.1).There are called St. Brandon and industrial fishing and private business also a number of uninhabited islands and opportunities for overcoming the heavy islets. Size and Location: Consists of 28 islets dependence of Rodrigues on national 450 km north north east of Mauritius, support. Water, sanitation and soil some of which are leased to a private conservation are major targets for Box 17.1 fishing company environmental improvement. Rodrigues and the outer islands Population: Communications Progress Rodrigues Principal challenges: Maintaining and developing fishing industry. Providing Rodrigues Size and Location: One island 104 sq basic social amenities km; 650 km NE from Mauritius island In 2002 a directly elected regional assembly Population: 36,000 Agalega islands was established in Rodrigues giving powers Communications: daily scheduled Rodrigues island for local planning and management of the passenger airline; weekly sea links; local Size and Location: An atoll of two Rodrigues island’s economy. A National Development radio and TV. islands,1,000 km north of Mauritius, Plan has been agreed for better land use, Principal challenges: Diversification linked at low tide by1.3 km shallow Rodrigues is exposed to extreme climatic improvement in services, better from largely subsistence agriculture bank. The islands cover 2,600 ha, with conditions including frequent cyclones, communications and transport, the and fishing, through development of coral fringe reef droughts, and floods which cause damage to attraction of inward investment and the market gardening, eco-tourism and Population: 300, living in three villages infrastructure and economic and social diversification of the economy. deep sea industrial fishing. Communications: Sea links twice a activity. Its vulnerability has rested on a series Consolidation of newly decentralised year; emergency air link by NCG of factors including; isolation from the The vision of the Regional Assembly is to government with local planning plane; Satellite TV in community centre 230 national centre of commerce and build on the largely unspoilt natural resources 231

C HAPTER 17 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE of the island making Rodrigues an ecological The Way Ahead centre for the achievement of sustainable Box 17.2 environmental issues and in the development. The programme of Rodrigues Biodiversity in Rodrigues. importance of conservation. Local development already in hand includes: The Executive Council of the Rodrigues communities on the island regularly Assembly is preparing a Strategy and Action Rodrigues has 134 native species of help with restoration work and ● planting in the forest areas. Protection of natural resources especially Plan for sustainable development in which 37 are endemic and among in the main valleys, the coastline and Rodrigues.This will give greater coherence to which are three endemic animals (the extensive lagoon, A recent project funded by the UNDP policies and local programmes.The aim is to Rodrigues fody, Rodrigues warbler and GEF SGP “Sustainable use of ● mobilise local people, attract inward the Rodrigues fruit bat).There are also Reforestation, propagation of endemic Rodriguan Endemic plants” established species, establishment of nature reserves two reserves, one for upland forest at investment, promote new jobs, reduce areas of plants used for medicinal and for arresting erosion, Grande Montagne and the other for poverty, enhance living conditions, artisanal purposes to provide material coastal forest at Anse Quitor. These consolidate and protect the fragile ecology, for villagers for traditional practices. ● Improvement of waste management with fragments of native forest are rich in building on the natural resources of the There has also been a study on the use separation at household level, collection of biodiversity, although this is highly plastic bottles and metal and composting, island for economic and social progress. of different types of Vacoas, an threatened by alien invasive plants important plant used in the handicraft which overwhelm them in their natural ● Integrated coastal zone management, with Major Projects Under Way in Rodrigues sector. habitat, by exotic animals which marine protected areas for development Include: prevent their regeneration and by of sustainable fishing and eco-tourism, Endemic Fauna development projects such as roads, In Rodrigues, further strengthening of hotels and the airport. The Café ● Improvement in water management and Only three endemic animals remain – protection against natural disasters is Marron which has medicinal water quality (Water is supplied through the Rodrigues fody, Rodrigues warbler boreholes, with a new dam being envisaged including safer housing, beach properties is an example of a highly and the Rodrigues fruit bat. All three constructed), protection, reinforcement of standards of threatened native plant. were close to extinction in the 1970s infrastructure for roads, bridges, power and when an afforestation policy was ● Eradication of poverty and social telephone networks. Improvements are also Conservation is carried out at several begun to protect watersheds. This integration of the most vulnerable under review for safe refuges and different areas, native reserves and provided habitat for the species and segments of the population, and organisation of rescue, recovery and coastal zones. Plants are propagated by populations have now increased response systems. Reinforcement of pubic NGOs and, Government run nurseries ● Improvement in human resources dramatically. health surveillance and security systems will and manage a highly successful project development through better education, funded by the EU using village health services and training (Rodrigues be necessary as the island opens up to more has, 13 primary schools, 5 secondary direct international links by air and sea. nurseries and employing the villagers schools and places reserved on the main to grow the plants. island for tertiary education). It has its own Eco-tourism has been identified as a key The Outer Islands hospital and health centres providing A dedicated community educator sector for the future. Plans include primary care and specialist services and working with the NGO Mauritian establishing international air routes to the Inequality in services and of opportunity is a health promotion. Wildlife Foundation, visits the primary island for inter-island, multi-centre and common feature of isolation and remoteness schools regularly, raising awareness in regional tourism and improving the sea port from the centre of political and social life in a 232 for passenger and freight traffic. country.The size and distance of the outer 233

C HAPTER 17 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE islands, and their small populations present special challenges for delivering basic services and in promoting development.The very fragile nature of their ecologies makes them of special interest for research and for monitoring the impact of changes being planned, especially in Agalega.

17. Rodrigues and the Outer islands A Policy and Programme Progress Sheet

Challenges addressed Progress made The way ahead

● Isolation ● Increase in air and sea links ● International air and sea links to ● Development of ICT and more Rodrigues; new air and sea links to open airwaves Agalega.

● Depletion of ● Reforestation ● Implementing Vision of regional natural resources ● Protected land and marine parks ecological centre in Rrodrigues and ● Public education ecological protection in all islands

● ● Strengthening basic ● Water and sanitation Extra water supply through further services and improvements in all islands dams and by desalination infrastructure ● Safer waste management ● Better waste management in outer islands

● Security ● Public health surveillance increased ● Reinforcement of housing and to combat importation of infrastructure to withstand cyclones infectious disease. ● Strengthening of physical and public health security with advent of more direct international air and sea links ● Business ● Increase in tourist capacity ● More international air and sea links for Getting over the stakes Investment ● Increase in smes business and tourism ● Development of market gardening ● Extension of fishing into the EEZ ● Promotion of ICT ● Better support and training for smes development

● Coherent ● Regional assembly with sectoral ● Rodrigues Strategy and Action Plan 2005 participative commissions in Rodrigues government ● Agalega Island Council

234

C HAPTER 17 Getting over the stakes Mauritius has made substantial progress but environmental protection. This is indeed a the pattern is uneven. More has been challenge for all Small islands Developing The Challenges achieved in policy development and planning States. In many areas developing effective than in implementation. In all the key areas management and the new professional and for action, policies and the institutional technical support relevant to each specialised 60 years ago in Mauritius expectation of life species; gold medal position by ICBP for framework for promoting reform, have been area has taken longer than anticipated. at birth was just 33 years; today it is 73 years. threatened bird species. put in place. In a large majority of key areas Establishing and sustaining specialisation is a Since 1985 income per head in Mauritius has strategies have been agreed and action plans common problem for SIDS. tripled. Adult literacy stands at 84% and all Progress set out.These are now being put within the children now have access to secondary new medium term financial framework for Current information and monitoring systems schooling (See Chapter 14). One in four Since the Rio summit of 1992 progress with results based budgeting, which is being need to be reformed and strengthened to people in Mauritius have use of mainline the commitments to Agenda 21 has been established in the public sector in Mauritius. provide the basis for evaluation of telephones and have mobile phones; one in positive but at times halting. The pattern of programmes and the identification of ten people can use the internet at home (See development in each of the key areas is set But Mauritius is less well advanced in other variation in responsiveness to intervention. Chapter 13). Mauritius has come a long way: out in the chapters themselves. It is vital elements in the reform to achieve Much needs to be done to bring these in line but it has further to go to reach the level of summarised at the end of each chapter in the sustainable development. The 1991 with the requirements of policies and economic development of some SIDS (See specific progress assessment tables. Below is environment Protection Act has been strategic goals. Figure 18.1) and it has major challenges to an overview of the achievements in each of repealed and replaced in 2002 to incorporate tackle. For example: the areas of concern, classified in terms of new international principles relating to Few centres of expertise are available to certain key stages of the process of change. environmental governance such as openness, provide the R & D input to establish and ● Air-pollution is increasing, These stages of transition are reform of public participation, accountability, maintain a scientific evidence base and for policy, of institutional structure, of planning, effectiveness and coherence. The promoting innovation and evaluating ● HIV/AIDS though low is rising fast, of law; of international partnerships, Environment Appeal Tribunal acts as outcomes. More co-ordination of the managerial, professional and technical watchdog to safeguard those principles. The different bodies involved in R & D is required ● Traffic congestion is getting worse and so reform, development of information and Government has also recognised that a high to get the best results. is road safety, with more accidents each monitoring systems, and establishment of quality environment is essential for the year and a rising rate of fatalities in the Research and Development capacity for each sustainable development of the country and number of injured persons, of the key areas (See Table 18.1) for the health and welfare of its people and Box 18.1 this principle has been the driving force Achieving greater transparency in ● Probity in society is under a new shadow Mauritius has become greener in its policies behind regulating standards for air, water, public life of international concern: but appearance but there are pale green areas to be attended noise, solid waste, hazardous waste, effluent The Reality differs greatly from the reality (See Box to and still patches of red where much more limitation and plastic bag. The Ministry is The new broom of transparency. 18.1), and needs to be done to strengthen the striving hard in establishing norms and implementation of the vision of sustainable policies to regulate and manage the The Independent Commission Against ● The threat of extinction of species puts development. environmental assets of Mauritius and make a Corruption (ICAC) is steadily Mauritius in a world class: bronze medal fair balance between the concept of promoting a new transparency in high position by IUCN for threatened plant 236 development and the concept of places. 237

C HAPTER 18 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE ● Transport and communications: with Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) SIDS Partnership The Financial Services Authority reduced traffic congestion, more road supervises the probity of the fast safety, better transport and Under the UN system of MDGs many of the As part of the SIDS network Mauritius developing finance sector. The Central communications to Rodrigues and the targets set for each country require further recognises the opportunities for achieving a Tender Board awards contracts on outer islands improvement on the level of achievement in steadier progress towards sustainable value for money protecting the state 1990. As Mauritius was well developed in development through partnership on: from bribery from dubious suppliers, ● Training and skills development: in 1990, some of the targets in the MDGS are and the Public Service Commission the public and private sectors for particularly tough to reach even by the Protection Against the Economic and appoints people in the public sector managers and professional and technical deadline of 2015.The latest position (World Social Impact of Globalisation experts involved in sustainable strictly on merit. Bank figures 2004) is set out below. It shows development and environmental the many goals and specific targets that have ● Moderating the speed of transition in the protection The perception of bad old ways may been achieved in Mauritius or which are global market, still linger, but the reality is that the achievable; those towards which Mauritius is ● Freshwater management: with culture and practices of the country moving; and those few from which Mauritius ● Advocating compensation for the loss of sustained supply of safe water to all, to are changing fast. Greater efficiency is moving away. (Also see Fig 18.2) preference in trading agreements, increase efficiency of supply and reduction and effectiveness go hand in hand with of leaks, with better management of ● greater probity in all aspects of life.The Mauritius has thus achieved, can achieve or is Promoting proper representation of SIDS demand, including charging and recycling; in WTO negotiations, and customs houses are being swept clean. and extension of the sewerage network. moving towards achievement of most of the The police are looking fitter for their goals and the specific targets identified in the ● Evaluating the technical methods used task of enforcing the law. UN MDGs. The health targets on child and Doing Well and the results achieved by adopting a maternal health are very tough.The level set Most progress in Mauritius has been made in vulnerability index for guiding the process for Mauritius for example on the under five the following key areas from the BPoA: of participation in market liberalisation. Could Do Better mortality rate, is the level achieved by high The key areas of the BPoA for priority ● Information and communication income OECD countries; and that for infant Protection from Global Environmental attention in Mauritius in the years ahead are: technology, mortality is below that for OECD countries Threats as a whole. These may not be achievable in ● Energy resources; with cleaner ● Climate change and sea level rise, Mauritius by 2015. ● Seeking support to overcome the global technology, more use of renewable pressures from climate change and sea sources; greater economy in use; more ● Natural and environmental disasters, But Mauritius is moving away from the level rise whose impact on small islands buildings designed for minimum energy specific targets on HIV/AIDS and on certain can be less easily absorbed than on use, more audit of energy use ● Coastal and marine resources, environmental targets as a result of countries of greater size and with less continued loss of forest area and the coastline ● Reform of the state; with further ● Biodiversity, increasing levels of CO2 emissions, affecting decentralisation, more hiving off of state air quality.These warrant greater attention in ● Protecting the rich biodiversity of the run operational services; reform of the ● Tourism, and the way ahead. islands from further threats civil service; more evident transparency ● Trade and investment. 238 239

C HAPTER 18 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Advocacy Improvement of Public Services and Enhancing Resilience ● Strengthening the voice of SIDS through Quality of Life civil society and youth in building SIDS are vulnerable to economic and environmental shocks. But they learn to respond and consensus and developing ideas for policy ● Collaborating in early warning systems, overcome these events by means of adaptation, involving measures of protection, precaution robust design of buildings and and those that build directly on the natural resource. Examples of how Mauritius has Technical Exchange infrastructure better suited to the quality responded to aspects of its vulnerability,identified in the chapters, are summarised below (See and the nature of the islands, Table 18.2) Environmental Improvement ● Developing more environmentally friendly ● Developing more cost-effective health systems for waste management, services, and Ta b le 18.2 ● Evolving more efficient water management ● Securing sustainable mobility for work and systems, leisure whilst protecting the fragile Enhancing resilience environment from the pressures of No. Vulnerability Action taken to enhance resilience ● increasing the transport of goods. Protecting coral reefs, lagoons and beaches ● I Isolation Global links by frequent air and sea passenger and freight from erosion and ecological decline, transport Professional and Technical Skills ● Technical international networking for expert support ● ICT development (Internet, mobiles, etc) ● Securing sustainable tourism within the ● Liberalisation of airwaves carrying capacity of the economies and the ● Developing environmental accounting in environment, the public and private sectors for ● appropriate evaluation of services and 2 Small resources base Diversification of economy ● Easy access for inward investment ● Exploiting alternative sources of energy, initiatives and economic incentives for ● Local production of wide range of consumer goods with an economic framework that takes promoting achievement, ● Implanting new industries (e.g. Textiles, ICT, international conferencing) account of environmental benefits and ● Promotion of SME’s costs, and ● Developing more effective use of planning ● tools such as guidelines and EIAs for 3 Climate change and sea Support for international action on greenhouse gases level rise emission ● Protecting and enriching biodiversity. promoting environmentally friendly design ● Coastline protection, adaptation and mitigation measures of residential, public sector, commercial ● Renewable energy programme (Solar, hydro., bagasse, wind-farms) and industrial buildings and infrastructure Commercial and Business ● Cyclone warning and protection system and for enhancing the style and quality of ● Agriculture adaptation to climate changes

● the built environment in the context of the Promoting small and medium sized ● 4 Land Reducing use of hazardous chemicals industries, natural beauty of the islands, and ● Decentralisation of industry and commerce ● Strengthening villages and towns ● Integrated planning system ● ● Developing specialisation in all sectors. Protecting fish stocks and implementing ● Land development planning strategies the law of the seas in the EEZs, and ● Reforestation

● Promoting environmental businesses. 240 241

C HAPTER 18 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE No. Vulnerability Action taken to enhance resilience Mauritius presents this assessment on its The increasingly urban environment is

● progress in sustainable development and the becoming more a cultivated garden. The 5 Coastal and marine Banning of sand mining in lagoon and islets ● Technical support for deep sea fishing stakes and challenges ahead as a means of countryside has more protected space for ● CZM strategy promoting discussion and exchange of ideas. people to see and enjoy the rich inherited ● Oil spill contingency plan ● Conservation measures for lagoon fishing The stakes are high for all SIDS. It is hoped biodiversity. There is more concern for ● Effluent discharge control that this report can be useful as a frank protecting the pink pigeon than eating it.

● assessment of problems and progress in one 6 Water Integrated water management plan ● Reservoir, water and sewage treatment network small island state in reaching out towards the The future of Mauritius is at stake.The past is ● Water leaks control scheme vision of a greener future for the planet. The gone, But the new vision sees the natural ● Water quality monitoring ● Irrigation management and use of recycled water for hotel concept of a greener land is changing. The resources of the island as its greatest asset. grounds and gardens imprint of man is inescapable. Adapting to With high speed communication technology,

● this imprint is the challenge. Mauritius cannot peaceful isolation is all the more to be 7 Biodiversity National land and marine parks ● Threatened species conservation programmes return to the time of the Dodo. But it has treasured in a turbulent world.. ● Reforestation now in its polices and practices more respect for nature and its threatened species than ● 8 Visitors and tourists No charter flights; high quality standards ● Limit set within national and local carrying capacity hitherto. ● Diversification of tourist product (Eco-tourism, resort and community planning) ● EIAs for new schemes ● Licensing and enforcement of environmental and public health standards

● 9 Security Anti-terrorist law and security system ● Public health security controls (SARS, malaria, re-emerging epidemics) ● Strict control on guns ● Air-safety system and crash contingency plan ● Sea port security system and emergency plan ● National coast guard surveillance against illegal trafficking

● 10 Mobility National road improvement scheme ● Subsidised public transport ● High import tax on vehicles, reducing demand and indirectly road congestion

242 243

C HAPTER 18 MAURITIUS - STAKING OUT THE FUTURE Ta b le 18.1 Greening Mauritius Aspects of Reform and transition Management, Information Issue. Strategy Policy. Institutions LawsInternational professional and R&D and plans Partnership and technical monitoring development systems

1. Climate change and sea level rise

2. Natural and environmental disaster

3. Land resources

4. Biodiversity resources

5. Coastal and Marine resources

6. Tourism

7. Freshwater management

8.Energy resources

9. Management of wastes

10. Health

11.Trade and Investment

12.Transport and communications Index of key documents

13. Information and communication technologies

14. Education

15.Training and skills development

16. Reform of the State

17. Rodrigues & Outer Islands

244 Well developed In hand To be strengthened

C HAPTER 18 Index of key documents National HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan 2001-2005 National Information Technology Strategic Plan, 1998, National Computer Board National Sewerage Master Plan, 1994 Legislation National Solid Waste Management Strategy, 2002, Ministry of Local Government and Rodrigues New Master Plan for Airports of Mauritius, 2000, Ministry of External Communications Computer Misuse and Cyber Crime Act, 2003 Non-Sugar Sector Strategic Plan (2003- 2007), 2003, Ministry of Agriculture, Food Technology and Copyright Act, 1997 Natural Resources Dangerous Chemicals Control Act, 2003 Port Master Plan, 2002 Data Protection Act, 2004 Regional Oil Spill Contingency Plan, 1996, Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life Electronic Transactions Act, 2000 Sugar Sector Strategic Plan (2001 - 2005), 2001, Ministry of Agriculture, Food Technology and Environment Protection Act, 2002 Natural Resources Fisheries and Marine Resources Act, 1998 Tourism Development Plan for Mauritius, 2002, Ministry of Economic Development, Financial Food Safety Act, 1999 Services and Corporate Affairs Forest and Reserves Act, 1983 Genetically Modified Organism Act, 2004 National Reports: Information and Communication Technologies Act, 2001 Information Technology (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1998 Meeting the Challenges of Sustainable Development, 2002, Ministry of Environment Investment Promotion Act, 2000 Into the 3rd Millennium, National Strategy for Sustainable Development 1999 – 2005, Ministry of Local Government Act, 2003 Economic Development, Productivity and Regional Development Medical Council Act, 1999 Agenda 21 National Report, 1997, Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life National Environmental Strategies for the Republic of Mauritius: Review of the Legal and Vision 2020.The National Long Term Perspective Study,Volume 1 & 2,1997, Ministry of Economic Institutional framework for Environmental Management in Mauritius, 1999, Government of Development and Regional Cooperation Mauritius State of the Environment in Mauritius, 1991, Ministry of Environment and Quality of Life Planning and Development Act, 2004 Telecommunications Act, 1998 Technical Study Reports: Wildlife and National Park Act, 1993 Jackson D, 1989, Solid Waste Management Study – Mauritius, Central and Southern Africa Strategies and Plans: Department, Overseas Development Administration Scott Wilson Kirkpatrick, 1994, Solid Waste Management Project Bagasse Energy Development Plan, 1991 Scott Wilson Kirkpatrick, 1996, National Solid Waste Management Project, Mare d’Australia Integrated Electricity Plan (2003 – 2013), Central Electricity Board Landfill, Phase I: Composting of wastes Integrated National Transport Sector Strategy Study, 2001, Ministry of Economic Development, Brown & Root, 1998, Review of the National Solid Waste Management Plan for the Government Productivity and Regional Development of Mauritius, Ministry of Local Government and Environment National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Fichtner, 2000, Environmental Solid Waste Management Programme National Climate Committee:A Climate Change Action Plan, 1998 Carl Bro, 2003, Feasibility study for the management of municipal solid waste and hazardous waste National Development Strategy, 2003, Ministry of Housing and Lands & identification of a site for a new municipal solid waste landfill National Environmental Strategies for the Republic of Mauritius: National Environmental Action Plan for the Next Decade, 1999, Government of Mauritius National Environmental Strategies for the Republic of Mauritius: Environmental Investment 246 Programme, 1999, Government of Mauritius 247

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Millenium Development Goals

248