The Ministry of Health's annual performance report for 2025 to 2026 reveals that 16 health units in Mauritius are still badly understaffed. Despite the investment of Rs 3.5 billion, the report flags acute shortages across various services. The staffing picture is particularly concerning, with only five neurosurgeons covering emergencies around the clock across five regional hospitals. Two neurosurgeons who have already passed their Medical Council exams are still waiting on their appointments, highlighting a bottleneck in the recruitment process.
The report also highlights the shortage of specialist doctors, including diabetologists and laboratory technologists. Only two diabetologists serve 20 specialized clinics, resulting in many patients not meeting their blood sugar and blood pressure targets. The number of laboratory technologists has decreased from 230 in 2021 to 183 this year, with pathologists also in short supply. The Ministry of Health attributes the shortages to absenteeism, retirements, resignations, transfers, and slow recruitment.
The understaffing issue is not limited to specialist doctors and laboratory technologists. The report also notes a shortage of other essential health professionals. The Ministry of Health is facing challenges in recruiting and retaining staff, which is exacerbating the shortages. The government has acknowledged the issue and is exploring ways to address it, including training and recruitment initiatives.
In a separate development, France has agreed to train Mauritian police officers and firefighters to help combat drug trafficking. The agreement was reached during talks between Mauritian Prime Minister Ramgoolam and French President Macron at the Élysée. The training will focus on specialized units that take apart drug trafficking networks, as well as maritime drones that spot illicit activity in local waters.
The Mauritian government is also seeking French and European financing to address the island's strained water supply. The Agence Française de Développement, France's development agency, is due to consider the funding proposal at its board meeting next week. The water supply issue is a pressing concern for the island, with strict irrigation cuts threatening 750 hectares of vegetables.
In other news, the State Trading Corporation (STC) has defended its decision to award a contract to Fresh and Healthy Exotica Ltd to move ration rice. The company, which put in the lowest of five eligible bids, has not yet been used by the STC. The sole director of the company is Mayur Shibchurn, 26, son of Vishal Shibchurn, who was arrested in February 2024.
The housing minister has announced plans to extend the scheme to regularize precarious and informal housing across all of Mauritius. The scheme, which aims to provide security of tenure for thousands of households, will be rolled out in phases, although the exact timeline and details are yet to be announced. Small firms have also been handed a reprieve on the sugar tax, with the government signaling a easing of the levy.
Key points
- The 16 health units in Mauritius face acute shortages despite a Rs 3.5 billion investment in the sector.
- France has agreed to train Mauritian police officers and firefighters to help combat drug trafficking.
- The Mauritian government is seeking French and European financing to address the island's strained water supply.
