The Mauritian government has taken a significant step towards providing affordable housing to its citizens. On October 29, 2026, eighteen families received the keys to their new homes in Pointe-aux-Piments under the Rent-to-Own scheme. The ceremony was attended by Minister of Housing and Lands, Shakeel Mohamed, and officials from the Ministry of Housing and Lands and the National Housing Development Company (NHDC).
The Rent-to-Own scheme is designed to help families who face difficulties in securing traditional bank financing. One of the beneficiaries, Parvatee Nalhung, expressed her joy and relief at finally receiving the keys to her new home. She had faced numerous challenges, including her husband's disability and financial struggles, which made it difficult for her to secure a loan from a bank.
Minister Shakeel Mohamed emphasized that the Rent-to-Own scheme is a vital initiative aimed at providing alternative solutions to families who are struggling to access traditional financing. He revealed that the idea for the scheme was inspired by discussions with individuals from France, originally from Mali, Senegal, and the Comoros, who shared their experiences of facing difficulties in accessing affordable housing.
Under the Rent-to-Own scheme, beneficiaries pay approximately Rs 4,000 per month for five years. After this period, their financial situation is reassessed to determine if they can secure a mortgage or loan. A portion of the monthly payments made during the five-year period can be considered as part of the financing. The scheme offers an alternative to the traditional mortgage system, which can be more rigid.
The government has already planned for 36 houses under the Rent-to-Own scheme, with eighteen already completed in Pointe-aux-Piments. Additional units are planned in Malherbes, Notre-Dame, Valetta, and Henrietta. Furthermore, around 600 applications from interested individuals are currently being reviewed.
Minister Shakeel Mohamed stated that his primary goal is to provide maximum opportunities and facilities to those who face the most difficulties. He also announced that addressing the issue of squatting on state and private lands will be a priority, requiring collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance and the Deputy Prime Minister.
For the eighteen families who received the keys to their new homes, this marks a significant milestone in their lives. They can now look forward to a more secure future, free from the uncertainty and financial strain of renting. The Rent-to-Own scheme has brought them closer to achieving their dream of becoming homeowners.
Key points
- The Mauritian government has launched the Rent-to-Own scheme to provide affordable housing options to low-income families who struggle to secure traditional bank financing.
