The Mauritian government has announced plans to construct a new veterinary school and animal hospital in Belle-Rive, with 11 arpents of State land allocated for the project at Fiveways. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries' ongoing programme to promote animal health and welfare across the island. The project is being undertaken with the assistance of the Indian government.
The Indian authorities have already launched procurement procedures to appoint a consultant responsible for preparing a detailed project report and handling project management. This move is expected to bring in expertise and resources to ensure the successful implementation of the project. The new veterinary school and animal hospital will likely provide essential services to the local community and improve animal welfare in Mauritius.
In addition to the Belle-Rive project, a two-arpent plot of State land has been reserved in Richelieu, Petite-Rivière, for a dedicated dog shelter. This facility is part of a broader push to establish regional shelters for stray and abandoned dogs under the 2025–2029 governmental programme. The shelter will be managed by the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW).
The Mauritian government is also addressing staff shortages in the veterinary sector by seeking recruitment assistance from friendly nations and regional organisations. Partnerships are being established with the Southern African Development Community (COMESA partner bodies), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). This will help to bring in qualified personnel to support the new veterinary school and animal hospital.
All foreign veterinarians recruited through these channels will be required to register with the Veterinary Council of Mauritius. This ensures that they meet the necessary standards and requirements to practice in Mauritius. The registration process will help to maintain the quality of veterinary services and protect animal welfare.
The new veterinary school and animal hospital in Belle-Rive, along with the dog shelter in Richelieu, demonstrate the Mauritian government's commitment to improving animal health and welfare. These initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on the local community and contribute to the country's development. The projects are being implemented in collaboration with international partners, including the Indian government.
The allocation of 11 arpents of land for the Belle-Rive veterinary school and animal hospital, and two arpents for the Richelieu dog shelter, reflects the government's prioritisation of animal welfare and healthcare. The projects are part of a broader effort to enhance the well-being of animals in Mauritius and promote a culture of compassion and responsibility towards animals.
Key points
- The Mauritian government has allocated 11 arpents of State land for a new veterinary school and animal hospital in Belle-Rive, with Indian government assistance.
- A two-arpent plot of State land has been reserved in Richelieu for a dedicated dog shelter, which will be managed by the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW).
- The government is addressing staff shortages in the veterinary sector by seeking recruitment assistance from friendly nations and regional organisations.
