Hector Espitalier-Noël: "Living in Mauritius in 2050 Should Be Pleasant; Without Water, It Won't Be"
Hector Espitalier-Noël: "Living in Mauritius in 2050 Should Be Pleasant; Without Water, It Won't Be"
Defi Quotidien
Fri, 19/12/2025 - 11:30
A discussion panel was held ahead of the launch of national consultations regarding Vision 2050, under the theme "Envisioning Mauritius in 2050." This meeting brought together several prominent figures from the public and private sectors, including Rundheersing Bheenick, former minister and Chairman of the State Bank of Mauritius (SBM), Bashir Currimjee, Director of Currimjee Jeewanjee, Hector Espitalier-Noël, former CEO of the ENL Group, Guillaume Dalais, Group Chief Executive of CIEL, and Sangeetha Ramkelawon, CEO of BCP Bank (Mauritius).
The speakers reflected on Mauritius's economic journey since independence, marked by phases of transformation and diversification. A common point emerged in their discussions: the central role of public-private partnerships in the country's development. They argued that this model has contributed to structuring several key sectors of the economy and must now be strengthened to address future challenges.
However, the Mauritian economy faces multiple challenges. Bashir Currimjee highlighted immigration as a lever to consider in the context of an aging population. He noted that this approach has already yielded benefits in countries like Singapore and Dubai. "Mauritius has always played a significant role in immigration. We need a clear, smart, and fair policy to address the issue of an aging population," he stated.
In a broader perspective related to Vision 2050, Hector Espitalier-Noël emphasized that quality of life must remain a core priority. However, he warned about the constraints related to natural resources, particularly water. "If there is no water, it won't be pleasant," he conceded. This concern was echoed later by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, who addressed the lack of attention given to water consumption, reminding that "every drop counts."
Hector Espitalier-Noël also drew attention to the attractiveness of the Mauritian port, estimating that countries like Madagascar, Mozambique, and South Africa are gaining ground in this area. Regionally, Sangeetha Ramkelawon stressed the potential of the African continent. According to her, Mauritius should focus on this market by adopting a targeted strategy by sector and country. She highlighted the need for capital and financing in Africa and the necessity for Mauritius to position itself as a gateway to the continent.
As for Guillaume Dalais, he reminded that it is crucial for Mauritius to remain competitive and attractive to continue attracting investors, which is deemed essential for sustaining long-term growth.
