Digital Transformation Blueprint 2025–2029

On Monday, May 26, 2025, at the Harilall Vaghjee Hall in Port Louis, the President of the Republic, Dharambeer Gokhool, officially unveiled the Digital Transformation Blueprint 2025–2029 - A Bridge to the Future, alongside the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, as well as numerous representatives from the private sector, ministries, parastatal bodies, and civil society. This highly anticipated strategic document outlines the course for the upcoming major digital reforms that aim to propel Mauritius into a new era characterized by intelligent governance, an innovative economy, and a more inclusive society.

This national plan is grounded in a clear vision: to make Mauritius a connected, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable society by 2029. It proposes a profound transformation of the digital ecosystem through a user-centered approach, catering to citizens, businesses, and public administrations alike. The blueprint was developed following an extensive consultation process initiated in January, involving a wide range of stakeholders, public consultations, workshops with civil servants, as well as discussions with technology partners and private institutions. This participatory dynamic is one of the strengths of the blueprint; it reflects a national consensus on the necessity of modernizing the country’s digital foundations.

At the heart of this roadmap are four major pillars guiding government action. The first pillar, titled Modernizing Public Services, aims to deeply digitalize interactions between the state and citizens. This includes implementing a comprehensive, integrated government Super App that allows users to access all public services in one place via their mobile phones or computers. Additionally, it involves the widespread introduction of a secure Mobile ID, the issuance of electronic documents, the creation of a national data registry, and the strengthening of infrastructures through GovData Centers. The state aims to provide proactive services available at all times, focused on the needs of citizens.

The second pillar, Strengthening Human Capital, is based on the idea that the success of digital transformation depends not just on technology but primarily on people. This component includes large-scale training programs ranging from digital literacy for vulnerable populations to specialized training for professionals. Special attention will be given to youth, women, and workers in transition, aiming to create a broad base of digital skills. Partnerships with educational institutions, training centers, and the private sector will be encouraged to tailor offerings to meet the needs of the digital job market.

The third pillar, Stimulating Economic Innovation, proposes a structured support framework for technological entrepreneurship, the digital economy, and the adoption of digital solutions across all sectors. The government intends to facilitate the growth of startups, strengthen incubators, streamline administrative processes for innovative businesses, and promote the digitalization of SMEs. This pillar will also support key sectors such as fintech, smart farming, e-commerce, digital health, and cultural industries. A particular emphasis is placed on public-private partnerships and the export of digital services.

Finally, the fourth pillar, Ensuring a Sustainable Digital Future, anchors digital transformation within a framework of responsible development. The blueprint commits Mauritius to the path of green technologies, energy optimization, intelligent water and waste management, and the use of IoT (Internet of Things) for smart cities. It also outlines the integration of digital technology into ecological transition efforts, notably through e-mobility, smart buildings, and precision agriculture.

Five Cross-Cutting Levers

To support these four pillars, the blueprint identifies five cross-cutting levers — the enablers — that constitute the conditions for the success of this digital ambition.

The first of these enablers is Unified Digital Public Infrastructure, a common technical foundation enabling interoperability and security. It will include identity management systems, national registries, open data platforms, and authentication tools. This infrastructure will act as the central engine for digital services, facilitating resource sharing and coherence in digital policies.

The second enabler is the reform of the legal and regulatory framework. The government plans to update existing laws and introduce new legislation to govern the use of emerging technologies. This includes a review of the Data Protection Act, the development of a law on digital services, regulation of artificial intelligence, and the establishment of ethical oversight mechanisms. The aim is to build a legal architecture that protects citizens' digital rights while fostering innovation.

The third enabler concerns institutional governance. A national coordination mechanism will be established, led by the Ministry of ICT, to ensure monitoring, evaluation, and real-time adjustment of the blueprint's implementation. Performance indicators will be defined for each action.

The fourth enabler focuses on cybersecurity and digital resilience. A national cybersecurity strategy will be launched to prevent risks associated with cyberattacks, misinformation, or loss of sensitive data. Digital security is considered a cornerstone of trust in public services and online transactions.

Finally, the fifth enabler is data governance and the integration of artificial intelligence. The government is committed to promoting responsible management of public and private data, improving public policies, and regulating the deployment of artificial intelligence in administration, justice, health, and education. Emphasis will be placed on ethics, inclusivity, and transparency.

Minister Avinash Ramtohul concluded his speech by emphasizing that this blueprint is not merely a document but a national compass. "It marks the beginning of a collective movement, rooted in the desire to build an agile state, a competitive private sector, and a society in which every citizen can find their place in the digital realm," he stated. He thanked all the civil servants, partners, and experts who contributed to the development of this ambitious plan and called for a collective mobilization for its implementation.