The "En Route Vers Made in Moris" program held its closing ceremony for Cohort 3 on September 24, 2026, at the Atrium, Telfair. This event marked the end of the program launched in October 2023 to support Mauritian SMEs in enhancing their skills and preparing for the "Made in Moris" label. Over three cohorts, the program has assisted over 120 SMEs through training, business diagnostics, personalized coaching, masterclasses, and networking.

The ceremony honored the enterprises of Cohort 2026, which have completed their journey, including those officially joining the "Made in Moris" label. It also reflected on the achievements and impact of the three-year program. The event recognized institutional, financial, technical partners, and experts who contributed to its deployment. Key speakers included Ramesh Bhekhoo, Permanent Secretary, SME Division; Jean-Pierre Lim Kong, President, Association of Mauritian Manufacturers & Made in Moris; Anju Umrowsing-Ramtohul, Head of Domestic Banking, MCB; and Yann Charlotte, Program Director.

Ramesh Bhekhoo emphasized that the "En Route Vers Made in Moris" program aligns with the broader modernization of the productive sector. He highlighted the importance of SMEs improving productivity, adopting new technologies, and developing higher-value-added products. The program encourages SMEs to examine and enhance their products and production processes. Bhekhoo noted that public administration and the private sector must work together to create a favorable business environment.

Jean-Pierre Lim Kong stressed that the program's ambition is to make Mauritian enterprises progress sustainably. He mentioned that the "Made in Moris" label, established thirteen years ago, represents trust earned by each enterprise and product. Kong emphasized that the label is not only a recognition but also a responsibility, representing Mauritian employment, investment, and industrial skills.

Anju Umrowsing-Ramtohul highlighted that SMEs represent more than just financial balance sheets, as they create jobs, develop skills, and support families. She noted that the MCB's "Success Beyond Numbers" reason for being recalls that an enterprise's success is not solely measured by financial performance but also by its impact on people, communities, and the economy.

Yann Charlotte expressed his pride in the program's accomplishments over three years, emphasizing the richness of Mauritius' human and industrial capital. He stated that the program's conclusion marks a new beginning, and he is committed to continuing the journey toward a stronger, more diverse, and engaged "Made in Moris" label.

The results of Cohort III 2026 show that 97 SMEs were registered, with 42 selected, across six economic sectors. Thirty-one enterprises completed the program, and 29 successfully obtained the "Made in Moris" label, representing 38 new brands. The program achieved an 83% completion rate and a 94% success rate in the labeling process. The MCB will finance the membership fees for these 29 new members for their first year.

Key points

  • The "En Route Vers Made in Moris" program has supported over 120 SMEs across three cohorts.
  • Cohort III 2026 saw 29 enterprises successfully obtain the "Made in Moris" label.
  • The program aims to enhance SMEs' skills and prepare them for the "Made in Moris" labeling journey.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.