Mauritius Pleads for International Aid as Erosion Threatens over 10 Vulnerable Beaches

The Mauritian government has warned that it cannot halt the worsening crisis of coastal erosion alone, calling for immediate international support and increased funding to protect the island’s vanishing shoreline.

Speaking this morning at the opening of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Regional Practitioners’ Forum in Ébène, Minister of Environment Rajesh Bhagwan laid bare the scale of the challenge.

He stated that the problem is “aggravating” and that Mauritius lacks the resources to address the issue without external assistance.

Visible Climate Impact

The Minister noted that the effects of global climate change are no longer theoretical but are “very real” and clearly visible on several of the nation’s beaches.

He expressed satisfaction that this global issue is now receiving focused attention from international practitioners.

Call for Mobilised Finance

Echoing the need for urgent action, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ritish Ramful stressed the necessity of mobilising financial resources.

He argued that significant funding is essential to transform vital coastal protection proposals into concrete projects.

The forum highlights the specific vulnerabilities of island nations as they face the front lines of environmental degradation.

“Mauritius cannot, on its own, put an end to it.” — Rajesh Bhagwan, Minister of Environment

Source: Defi Media