58 Years of Independence: Leaders and Professionals Call for More Boldness for Mauritius

On the occasion of Mauritius' 58th Independence anniversary, various leaders and professionals share their vision for the future of the country. While expressing pride in the achievements so far, they urge for more boldness, emphasizing the importance of unity, good governance, economic resilience, and sustainable development.

Afsar Ebrahim, Director of Kick Advisory: "Our diversity and resilience are our greatest strengths"

Afsar Ebrahim notes that while Mauritius has made remarkable progress over the past 58 years, it must avoid complacency and reclaim the boldness that characterized its development. "58 years may seem short in the life of a nation, but Mauritius has made significant strides for an island with no natural resources, except for its exceptional beauty and especially its people," he points out.

He highlights the harmonious coexistence of cultures and religions as one of the country's greatest strengths, mentioning recent celebrations like Thaipoosam Cavadee, Maha Shivaratri, Chinese New Year, Christian Lent, and Ramadan as examples of this richness. "This coexistence of traditions is not merely symbolic; it is the very DNA of Mauritius and explains our resilience in the face of adversity," he adds.

For Ebrahim, this ability to live together is accompanied by an entrepreneurial spirit and deep-rooted optimism in Mauritian society. "We remain a nation of entrepreneurs, a country where politics is a national sport, and where humor and optimism are part of daily life," he states.

However, he warns against worrying signs, citing "a lack of urgency, a diminishing sense of ambition, and a growing tolerance for shortcuts." He believes these issues could undermine the values that have propelled Mauritius forward. He also expresses concern over troubling social phenomena, including the rise of drug abuse and the pursuit of illicit gains.

In a global context marked by geopolitical upheavals, the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, and rapid technological changes, particularly artificial intelligence, he feels Mauritius needs to rethink its place in the world. "Mauritius must see the world through its own lens, rather than through flawed Western lenses," he asserts.

He advocates for a stronger positioning of the country as a credible and attractive financial center, suggesting that Mauritius should seek to attract more investments, especially from the Arab world, while capitalizing on its reputation as a stable and reliable jurisdiction. Ebrahim reminds that Independence Day should be more than just a commemoration. "Independence Day is not just a moment of pride; it is also a call to action."

Sheila Ujoodha, CEO of MIoD: "Quality, responsible, and sustainable development must continue"

Sheila Ujoodha believes Mauritius' future relies on creating value, opening up to new horizons, and providing true prospects for current and future generations. "It is essential for Mauritius to invest in its potential, strengthen its economic pillars, modernize its infrastructure, accelerate its digital transformation, and foster an environment conducive to innovation, initiative, and trust."

She also emphasizes the importance of coherence and sustainability in the country's development. In this respect, corporate governance plays a central role: "It helps enhance decision-making quality, organizational solidity, anticipation capability, and, more broadly, the ability to create sustainable value." The MIoD is committed to supporting leaders and directors in this journey: "We will continue to promote stronger, more strategic, responsible corporate governance practices that are better suited to the realities of tomorrow."

Lawrence Wong, President of the Association of Mauritian Manufacturers: "I hope our industrial base will grow further"

Lawrence Wong highlights the role of local industry in Mauritius' economic development. He believes promoting local brands remains a lever to support national production. "I deeply believe in 'Made in Moris.' It allows for creating value and offering quality products made in Mauritius," he asserts. Wong also wishes to see the manufacturing sector grow more inclusively and sustainably.

Dr. Aadila Issack, Medical Director of Life MedicalClinics: "Mauritius has always been admired for its ability to unite diverse cultures"

Dr. Aadila Issack states that "Mauritius has always been admired for its remarkable ability to unite diverse cultures in a shared national identity." In a world filled with uncertainties, she believes that maintaining peace and stability is essential. Economically, she emphasizes the need to strengthen and diversify the national economy while consolidating the solid foundations provided by the tourism sector. In health, she stresses the collective responsibility of professionals, particularly in addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases: "Enhancing prevention, screening, and health education will be crucial for improving the long-term health of the population."

Sonny Wong, Chief Operating Officer of Innodis: "Support the local currency and invest in sustainability"

Sonny Wong argues that Mauritius' economic stability hinges on strengthening economic fundamentals, particularly support for the local currency "to keep inflation within an acceptable range." He also believes it is vital to enhance the country's economic resilience: "We must secure supply chains and bolster local manufacturing skills."

Additionally, Wong advocates for increased investments in sustainability, especially in renewable energy projects, circular economy initiatives, and climate change adaptation. He also highlights the need for better targeting of social assistance.

Diane Maigrot, General Director of La Turbine: "The innovation our country needs is primarily human and social"

Diane Maigrot calls for collective reflection on the country's future and how to strengthen national cohesion during Mauritius' Independence celebrations. "My deepest wish is that we collectively find the courage to innovate – not just in the economy or technology, but in our way of thinking, governing, and especially living together. The innovation our country needs is primarily human and social."

Maigrot views the country's cultural diversity as a significant asset. However, she asserts that a new step must be taken: "Simply coexisting cultures is no longer sufficient. Our challenge today is to build a truly intercultural society, where traditions, languages, and sensitivities do not merely coexist but meet, dialogue, and enrich each other."

She also emphasizes the role of education and institutions in this evolution: "This also requires innovation in politics and institutions to promote a vision of the country that transcends community logics and prioritizes the national interest."

Maigrot discusses the necessity for deeper transformation: "We must dare to envision Mauritius differently: not as a mere collection of communities, but as a shared identity under construction by all," she concludes. "The true 'Mauritianization' of our country will not come from a slogan or speech but from patient, creative, and bold work."

Stéphany Noëllis, CEO of Zenlife Mauritius: "It's time for Mauritianism to take precedence"

Stéphany Noëllis expresses her concerns regarding the country's economic and social situation, particularly the high cost of living: "It is important to find ways for those at the bottom of the ladder to meet their essential needs, especially for basic goods." Having traveled to several countries, she finds that food prices there are often more accessible. She also points out the gap between income and expenses for some families. "The minimum wage and the cost of living are disproportionate, particularly for households with children." She hopes for measures that would alleviate financial pressure on the population.

Beyond the economy, Noëllis calls for enhanced national cohesion: "It's time for Mauritianism to take precedence over communalism. We need a united country and people, to live together as Mauritians."

Daniel Saramandif, Consultant at International Tourism Business: "Tourism is our future"

Daniel Saramandif reminds that tourism remains a pillar of the economy, emphasizing its contribution to the national GDP. He cites recent results from the sector: "We have managed to surpass 1.4 million tourists in 2025." The goal remains to consolidate this economic contribution.

He also calls for national solidarity: "Mauritians must unite to protect tourism, as it is our future." Despite the current situation in the Middle East, he remains confident about the sector's future.