A New Breath for Île aux Bénitiers: Towards an Ecological Recreation Area
On Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger outlined the key features of the Master Plan for the recreational area of Île aux Bénitiers during a press conference in Port Louis. The plan aims to protect the islet while promoting sustainable tourism that respects the environment and biodiversity.
Also present were Ministers Shakeel Mohamed (Housing and Lands), Rajesh Bhagwan (Environment, Waste Management and Climate Change), and Richard Duval (Tourism), along with junior ministers Fabrice David and Sydney Pierre.
The Deputy Prime Minister commended the collective efforts of the ministers, public officials, the Black River District Council, and tourism operators for the revitalization of the islet. He recalled that in March 2025, the island was in a concerning state, with 171 illegal structures, 242 economic operators, sanitation issues, environmental degradation, and transport difficulties. Today, 57 operators are working in a temporary area.
Paul Bérenger specified that an implementation agency will oversee the execution of the Master Plan to ensure sustainable management of the islet. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to protect other islands in the Republic, such as Agalega, St Brandon, and eventually the Chagos Archipelago, while improving the management of islets like Îlot Fourneau, Île Plate, Îlot Gabriel, and Coin de Mire. He praised Rodrigues as an example of good islet management.
Minister Mohamed emphasized the role of the ministry as the guardian of state lands, stressing their sustainable use. Minister Bhagwan reminded that this project aligns with the government’s vision for sustainable development, transforming Mauritius into an ecological island while preserving its natural heritage.
A Concrete and Sustainable Plan
The Master Plan outlines the phased development of a recreational area of 65,147 m², including:
A boarding point at La Gaulette will ensure visitor safety. The goal is to streamline activities, promote sustainable tourism, and enhance the local economy, heritage, and culture.
A survey by the National Parks and Conservation Service highlighted the exceptional biodiversity of the islet, with critically endangered plant species and migratory birds, while warning about the threat of invasive species to this fragile ecosystem.
