Mauritius Aims to Rebuild Film Industry with 30 New Camera Assistants

The Mauritius Film Development Corporation (MFDC) is working to rebuild the local film industry. With fewer than 100 active technicians in 2025, compared to around 1,000 in 2019, the sector is facing a quiet crisis. To address this, the MFDC has launched an ambitious training program, starting with a recent workshop.

Under the Ministry of Arts and Culture, the MFDC is reshaping Mauritius’s audiovisual landscape.

The key problem identified is a severe lack of technical skills in areas such as camera operation, sound recording, lighting, machinery, art direction, production assistance, and directing.

Kevin Gutty, CEO of the MFDC, explained, “We conducted an assessment upon taking office, and the decline is alarming. It’s holding back the growth of our film industry.”

On July 17 and 18, the MFDC held its first technical workshop for camera assistants. The training was led by Kenny Wong Sin, the first Mauritian assistant camera based in South Africa.

About thirty participants attended, receiving intensive practical training that combined theory with simulated filming exercises.

Gutty emphasized the importance of training locals: “Training locally is crucial if we want to support Mauritian productions and attract international shoots.

Kenny Wong Sin is a clear example of Mauritian talent succeeding abroad, so it was natural to involve him.”

At the end of the workshop, all participants received certificates, marking a new beginning for these future film professionals.

This initial workshop is just the first in a series planned by the MFDC. More advanced and comprehensive training sessions are already being prepared in partnership with Sony, featuring specialized modules.

The goal is to continuously strengthen local expertise in a targeted way.

Gutty urged industry professionals to trust the positive transformation led by the MFDC to support and promote local talent.

The corporation’s vision is clear: to position Mauritius as a sustainable regional film hub recognized worldwide.

With its unique landscapes, multicultural identity, political stability, and a pool of talent to be revitalized, the MFDC aims to turn these assets into strengths.

To young aspiring filmmakers, Gutty said, “Cinema is a real profession. We are putting tools in place to train and support you. Take these opportunities.”

Source: l’Express