Poverty in the South: An Overlooked Reality Revealed in a New Ethnographic and Statistical Study by FoodWise

On Monday, FoodWise presented the findings of an ethnographic study conducted in the southern region of Mauritius at the Hennessy Park Hotel, attended by 73 guests, including ministerial officials, private sector partners, NGOs, and institutions. Among those present were Anishta Babooram, the Minister Delegate for Health, and Rajen Narsinghen, the Minister Delegate for Foreign Affairs, who shared encouraging remarks. The region, home to approximately 260,000 residents across three districts, faces a troubling reality: 22,000 individuals live in food insecurity, representing a significant portion of households, particularly large families, single mothers, and homes caring for the elderly. Conducted by Analysis Kantar between June and October 2025, the study combines ethnographic interviews, expert analyses, and national statistical data to portray the situation in the south. It reveals fluctuating eating habits and unpredictable purchasing power, along with daily struggles, despite the presence of resourcefulness. Food insecurity extends beyond nutritional deficiency, profoundly impacting the mental and social health of the population. Concrete health consequences include diabetes, deficiencies, dermatological issues, and more, directly affecting motivation, employment integration, and children's concentration in school.

An Ethnographic Study Closely Engaging with Vulnerable Individuals in the South

The study is a research and analysis project conducted by Analysis Kantar over four months from June to October 2025, based on 25 ethnographic interviews and 10 expert interviews, combining qualitative data and statistics from the HHBS 2023 survey (covering 260,000 individuals in the area) and the national census of 2022. The study gives a voice directly to the most vulnerable individuals and local stakeholders in the region. Conducted within households, it reveals intimate fragments of daily life for those most exposed to severe poverty. For these families, consumption expenses account for 78% of their budget (compared to 64% nationally), with 41% allocated to food. Striking stories and complex family situations emerge. This approach, a true reflection of the ongoing precariousness, breaks down prejudices and highlights the dietary habits of families.

A Disturbing Observation, Revealing Multiple Facets of Food and Social Insecurity

One in five individuals experiencing relative poverty resides in the south. The figures remain relatively stagnant, standing at 9.6% in 2017 and 7.3% in 2023, emphasizing the urgent need to address the root causes of this precariousness. The districts of Savanne and Black River are more affected by food insecurity, with respective rates of 9.3% and 10.3%, compared to 8% nationally. Nearly one in two residents reports struggling to meet daily needs (52% in Savanne) due to low incomes, geographical isolation, limited access to healthcare and education, and fragile family structures. These factors exacerbate a precariousness already marked by difficult living conditions: cramped homes accommodating multiple generations, some households having only one meal a day, chronic fatigue and stress among adults, and concentration problems among children. Moreover, 29% of vulnerable families have more than three children, and 25% of residents in the south have not progressed beyond primary education, limiting their career opportunities.

Food Survival Strategies Characterized by Resilience and Solidarity

In response to this situation, dietary habits adapt to a day-to-day lifestyle called "tire-ration," where purchasing staple goods—mainly rice and canned grains—takes precedence over proteins, fresh fruits, and vegetables. The slightest unexpected event can push a family into extreme poverty. However, the study highlights a remarkable capacity for resilience: food donations allow families to save and meet other urgent needs, while resourcefulness, creativity, and solidarity create discreet support networks. Food waste is nearly nonexistent, with a complete utilization of food. Yet, families' pride sometimes prevents them from seeking help.

In light of these findings, and given the concerning situation in the South, FoodWise remains committed to its efforts, not only in the region but across the entire island. "This study shows us that giving is not just about feeding; it provides a breath of fresh air, stabilizes households, strengthens resilience, and opens up new possibilities for families," adds Lotilde Charpy. "Combined with this morning's workshop, we will be able to continue refining our actions for the future with the support of our partners." FoodWise continues to encourage market players to join the collective effort to promote equitable redistribution to the most disadvantaged.