Africa-Press – Mauritius. The Prime Minister, Mr. Pravind Jugnauth, was the guest of honor at the official celebrations marking the twentieth anniversary of the autonomy of Rodrigues at the Camp du Roi stadium this Wednesday, October 12, 2022.
The Head of Government spoke of a moment of great pride for the Republic of Mauritius. The remarkable success that Rodrigues has had is the result of the concerted efforts of the central government and the Regional Assembly, he will say.
Mr. Pravind Jugnauth hailed Sir Anerood Jugnauth’s vision for the island adding that he, the architect of autonomy, has always believed in the ability of the people of Rodrigues to take their destiny into their own hands.
The Prime Minister also recognized the work done by the various Commissioners and administrators who have been in the service of Rodrigues, including Mr. Serge Clair who held the position of Chief Commissioner for thirteen years.
“I would like to say congratulations to our Rodriguais sisters and brothers who have lived up to the trust that Sir Anerood Jugnauth and I have placed in them” added Mr.
Pravind Jugnauth. He says he notes with satisfaction that the majority of Rodriguans recognize the efforts made to offer them more opportunities while allowing them to pursue progress.
Prime Minister referred to advances in road infrastructure, port and airport, water supply, education, health, housing, agriculture, fisheries , tourism, environmental protection and the IT sector.
The Prime Minister affirmed that his government will continue to work for the progress of the island. Its first priority remains the improvement of water distribution. Mr.
Pravind Jugnauth pointed out that the government has already invested in the construction of 5 desalination units which has increased the volume of drinking water from 4,500 to 9,000 cubic meters. Three reservoirs with a respective capacity of 1,000 cubic meters and equipped with structures for the collection of rainwater have been built.
He adds that during the last budget the central government announced a sum of one billion rupees for the construction of additional desalination units as well as 36 million rupees to improve water catchment.
The head of government also said that Plaine Corail airport will be equipped with a new airstrip which, according to him, is essential for the socio-economic development of the island.
Following the last minute withdrawal of the French Development Agency concerning the financing of the project, the government has started discussions with the World Bank for the implementation of the project.
The Prime Minister also affirmed his support for the Airport Town project proposed by the regional administration. Housing also remains a priority issue.
The Prime Minister announced that following his last visit to Rodrigues, he asked the Ministry of Finance to work on a new housing plan for Rodrigues in order to relieve the inhabitants who are in need.
A technical team will soon travel to Rodrigues to discuss the terms. Mr. Pravind Jugnauth also spoke of his desire to further promote organic farming in Rodrigues, adding that the island has a key role to play in ensuring our food security. The Prime Minister reiterated his determination to offer the same opportunities to every inhabitant of our Republic.
He stressed that it was a top priority for him to connect Rodrigues to high-speed internet through the MARS cable, the upcoming construction of a Technopark in Baladirou at a cost of 260 million rupees should create more opportunities for Rodriguan youth.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the measures taken to protect our Republic from the effects of climate change while encouraging the use of renewable energies. He also reiterated his determination to continue his fight against drugs.
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