MSAW’s Land Allocation for Dog Shelters Sparks Election-related Controversy

In the lead-up to the general elections, the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW) has sparked controversy by issuing a call for expressions of interest from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for land allocation to create shelters for dogs. NGOs would be responsible for all associated costs, operations, and maintenance of these shelters.

The deadline for submissions was set for October 15, a timeframe some organizations deem too short, especially as they grapple with rising financial challenges and an alarming increase in cases of animal cruelty.

Among these organizations is NouZanimo, which regularly attends to injured, abused, sick, and abandoned animals. President Audrey Hardy expressed the struggles faced by her organization, stating:

“It’s already a monumental task for us. We are contacted around the clock and operate beyond our means. There is so much to be done, with very little support. The incidence of cruelty and neglect in the country has never been higher. It’s getting worse!”

Despite the challenges, Hardy remained hopeful. “Once land is allocated, I’m confident that we can present projects to the government and the private sector to make them a reality.

Ideally, the government should identify responsible and serious NGOs that are actively engaged in animal welfare to partner with them.

This collaboration is crucial to address the issue of stray and abandoned dogs in Mauritius. Without this partnership, I find it hard to see how NGOs can be effective in their work.”

Usha Oodit Bawani, director of the Pink Pony Trust, expressed her disappointment regarding the communication from MSAW about the call for interest.

She claimed to have only learned of it recently, criticizing MSAW for what she views as a lack of outreach.

“I found out about the call on Saturday, and the application deadline was the following Monday, October 15.

I don’t understand why this announcement wasn’t made public on social media or the radio. For me, it feels like just a façade.

I believe many others didn’t have a chance to apply. It’s disheartening, especially since so many are waiting for land to continue their work in animal welfare.”

Bawani also pointed out the inconsistency in MSAW’s approach: “It doesn’t make sense to allocate land to NGOs while placing the financial burden and responsibilities solely on them.

There is no funding for shelter construction or any monthly allocations.

It’s already very difficult for us to operate, and we are constantly seeking funding from companies and the public. Government assistance would make a significant difference.”

Animal rights activist Reda Chamroo expressed his frustration over the situation.

“How can anyone think that NGOs are equipped to care for stray dogs at their own expense?

For me, this feels like a political maneuver. Two plots of land were identified in the 2019 budget, but there was no follow-up. Now, this proposal resurfaces just before the elections.

It appears this call for interest has been tailored for NGOs close to those in power, sidelining others.”

Known for his candid critiques, Chamroo, who tirelessly advocates for animal welfare, added, “There was no mention of this issue in the budget, nor any plans to tackle the problem of stray dogs.

The situation is desperate and worsens year by year. We currently have an estimated 300,000 dogs in Mauritius.

The MSAW has only managed 1,100 sterilizations over the past three years. This means the problem will continue to grow.

It is urgent to create shelters, like those in so-called civilized countries. Yet once again, MSAW exhibits neither vision nor the willingness to implement viable, concrete projects.”

Source: Le Mauricien