AI Summit 2025: IES Aims to Position Mauritius as an Excellence Centre

Institutional Expert Services (IES) is set to host a summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI) titled “Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence for Organisational Transformation” on 30 April at the Hennessy Park Hotel. The event will bring together business leaders, innovators, public and private sector representatives, as well as industry experts from the realm of Industry 4.0, to explore the transformative potential of AI for the nation, Mauritian enterprises, and the broader business landscape.

The inaugural ceremony will feature the participation of Avinash Ramtohul, Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, alongside Jyoti Jeetun, Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning.

“This event comes at a pivotal moment, as the Government of Mauritius has recently unveiled a programme aimed at transforming the island into a ‘Hi-Tech Intelligent Island’.

A key component of this strategy is a comprehensive digital transformation, with a strong commitment to AI as a driver of economic growth and improved governance.

This summit will position Mauritius as a business hub ready for AI in Africa, providing opportunities for networking, strategic exchanges, and exploration of AI-driven prospects.

With interactive discussion panels, insights from international experts, and participation from key players in the technology ecosystem, this event is poised to act as a catalyst for the AI revolution in Africa,” stated Namita Jargarnath Hardowar, Managing Director of IES.

The summit is structured around three pillars aimed at establishing Mauritius as a centre of excellence in AI within Africa.

The first pillar focuses on leadership in policy and regulation. The involvement of ministers underscores the government’s commitment to making AI a vital engine of the economy and technological innovation.

Discussions will address issues related to digital infrastructure, data policies, and AI regulations, aligning with international best practices.

Additionally, the summit will highlight advancements in AI within the financial sector, particularly its role in regulatory technology (RegTech) and economic planning.

The second pillar emphasises collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as the attractiveness of investment opportunities.

The presence of high-level government representatives bolsters investor confidence and reassures multinationals regarding the national AI-focused strategy.

The event aims to promote Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), encourage the establishment of specialised start-ups, and stimulate the development of an innovative ecosystem.

By integrating AI into economic planning and governance strategies, Mauritius aspires to become a regional leader in artificial intelligence.

Finally, the third pillar centres on the development of human capital and digital infrastructure.

AI presents a unique opportunity to enhance the skills of the local workforce and to incorporate specialised training in artificial intelligence within educational and professional systems.

Promoters will explore the best approaches for establishing intelligent infrastructures and regulations conducive to AI innovation.

Through an integrated approach that fosters artificial intelligence across information technology, fintech, and public services, Mauritius is solidifying its position as a pioneer in digital transformation on the African continent.

Strategic Selection of Speakers for AI Summit 2025

The selection of speakers from the finance, insurance, technology, and government sectors for the upcoming AI Summit 2025 is driven by three key objectives: strategic impact, intersectoral collaboration, and thought leadership.

Their involvement underscores the significance of the summit in shaping an AI-driven future for Mauritius and Africa.

The strategic impact of this selection highlights the pervasive influence of AI across various sectors, transforming finance, insurance, technology, and governance.

The speakers will showcase practical applications of AI, illustrating how this technology is redefining economic growth, digital transformation, and the evolution of public policy.

By adopting a multidisciplinary approach, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of AI’s role within business and regulatory ecosystems.

Intersectoral collaboration will facilitate exchanges between the public and private sectors, fostering innovative AI-based solutions.

Financial and insurance experts will emphasise the use of AI in risk assessment, fraud detection, and personalised financial services.

Leaders from the technology industry will share advancements in automation, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, while government representatives will address regulatory, ethical, and infrastructural challenges associated with AI adoption.

This diverse array of speakers ensures relevant discussions that are forward-looking and aligned with global AI trends.

Moreover, the intellectual leadership of the speakers will help position Mauritius on the global AI stage.

Their presence enhances the credibility and visibility of the summit, attracting international investors, policymakers, and technology innovators.

By bringing together established leaders and emerging pioneers in AI, the event will encourage cutting-edge discussions that affirm Mauritius as a key player in the AI-driven economic transformation in Africa.

An interactive segment will also feature success stories presented by industry leaders who have successfully integrated AI into their processes and operations.

Through concrete testimonials, these experts will share their experiences, the challenges they overcame, and the tangible benefits realised through AI.

This exchange will provide participants with an inspiring vision of the real-world applications of artificial intelligence and the opportunities it presents for the business community.

List of Speakers and Panels for AI Summit 2025

Keynote Speakers:

• Avinash Ramtohul – Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation
• Jyoti Jeetun – Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning
• Mark van Beuningen – Group Strategy and Investment Executive, CIEL Group

Panel 1: Ethical and Legal Dimensions of AI – Where Do We Draw the Line?
Moderator: Sheila Ujoodha – CEO, MIOD
Panellists:

• Anthony Leung Shing – Country Senior Partner & Tax Partner, PWC
• Drudeisha Madhub – Data Protection Commissioner
• Roc Bai – Vice President, Huawei Cloud Southern Africa Region
• Jessica Naga – CEO & Co-Founder, MINDEX Group

Panel 2: Leveraging AI to Drive Organisational Agility and Efficiency
Moderator: Ashley Epstein – CEO, Inlight
Panellists:

• Pamela Bussier – CEO, Jubilee Allianz Insurance
• Pravesh Gaonjur – COO, Tylers, Leal Group
• Manish Bundhun – Chief People Executive, ENL & Rogers
• Yogen Soobarah – HR Professional, Banking Sector

Panel 3: Charting the AI Journey – Change Management and Organisational Readiness
Moderator: Dr Bhavish Jugurnath – Managing Partner, Divine Whitefield Consultants
Panellists:

• Dev Hurkoo – Managing Director, Rogers Capital
• Manisha Dookhony – CEO, Terramont Capital Partners
• Shateeaum Sewpaul – CEO, Excelerate Consulting
• Anousha Sathan – General Manager, Currimjee Informatics

Source: Le Mauricien