The Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture, established in 1853, recently celebrated its 170th anniversary at Aventure du Sucre, Beau-Plan, bringing together current and former members, staff, key players in the agricultural sector, members of the diplomatic corps, and industry collaborators. During the celebration, Mr. Jérome Jaen, the president of the Chamber of Agriculture, emphasized the historical and fundamental role of the institution as a bridge between the government and planters. The Chamber has played a crucial role in collecting data and making strategic decisions for the sector, as well as in the creation of key institutions in the country, such as the Insurance Fund for the Cane Sector (SIFB), the Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute (MSIRI), and the transformation of the College of Agriculture into the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Mauritius.
The Chamber of Agriculture continues to serve as an essential unifying player, ensuring liaison between stakeholders in the agricultural sector and the government. It has observed and accompanied the evolution and diversification of the industry, adapting to modern challenges such as the climate crisis, labor shortages, and water resources management.
The celebration also marked the signing of a framework agreement for scientific cooperation between the Chamber of Agriculture and the Center for International Cooperation in Agricultural Research for Development (CIRAD). This agreement focuses on common objectives such as the reduction of inputs, the labeling of agroecological products, the promotion of agro-biodiversity, and a better understanding of agricultural operations at different levels.
The Chamber’s commitment to scientific cooperation and its efforts to address modern challenges reflect its dedication to the sustainable development and advancement of the agricultural sector in Mauritius.
Source: https://lexpress.mu/node/529476
