Visit of President Emmanuel Macron - Water and Energy: Details of the Agreements Revealed

President Emmanuel Macron's visit last week resulted in a series of concrete agreements between Mauritius, France, and the European Union (EU), focusing on two essential sectors: water and energy. These commitments aim to modernize the country's infrastructure, enhance climate resilience, and accelerate the energy transition.

In the energy sector, an initial measure will take effect in December, with support from EDF Réunion to secure the Mauritian electrical grid and optimize preparation for climate risks. This technical aspect is part of a broader modernization effort, backed by a €40 million loan from the French Development Agency (AFD) and a €10 million grant from the EU. The cooperation also includes an acceleration of renewable energy projects, facilitated by green financing and the involvement of Proparco. Rodrigues also benefits from this support through the "100% Green Island" program aimed at enhancing its energy autonomy.

The water sector is also receiving substantial support. The AFD and the EU have facilitated a strategic reform of the sector, funded with €200 million. A large-scale investment program is being prepared, combining €100 million from the AFD and €20 million from the EU, to improve storage, distribution, and reliability of the network. Again, Rodrigues will benefit from specific actions including studies, additional storage capacity, and modernization of distribution.

The cooperation has a digital dimension. The AFD will participate in the Generation M.IA Forum, focused on the role of artificial intelligence and digitalization in the sustainable management of essential resources, particularly water and energy.