Africa-Press – Mauritius. The Minister of Arts and Cultural Heritage, Mr Avinash Teeluck, and the Ambassador of France to Mauritius, Mrs Florence Caussé-Tissier, effected a site visit, today, at the Intercontinental Slavery Museum (ISM), in Port Louis.
The purpose of this visit was to submit ISM’s official request for the support of France regarding the implementation of the second phase of the Intercontinental Slavery Museum Project. Other personalities were also present.
In a statement, Minister Teeluck highlighted that the ex-Military Hospital, which is among the oldest public buildings in Mauritius, was chosen to house the Intercontinental Slavery Museum following the recommendations of the Truth and Justice Commission.
It is to be recalled that the first phase of the setting up of the Intercontinental Slavery Museum, namely the renovation of the building, was launched last year.
Mr Teeluck pointed out that, as at date, the first phase has been completed, with a temporary exhibition and consultations between the concerned authorities and the public for submission of proposals.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed that slavery is not the concern of only one community, but of the whole country. As such, he said, following the consultations, a report will be presented to Cabinet, prior to starting the second phase of the project.
While adding that other temporary indoor exhibitions will be organised, he invited the public to take stock of the progress of works relating to the implementation of the Museum project.
The Arts and Cultural Heritage Minister also stated that this Museum will be developed with the collaboration of other friendly countries, including France. The latter, he underlined, has the necessary skills and expertise in building museums.
For her part, the Ambassador of France to Mauritius expressed satisfaction at being able to visit the building that will house the Intercontinental Slavery Museum. She affirmed that the Museum will have a key role in developing the country’s image in museum matters globally.
This project, added Mrs Caussé-Tissier, bears testimony of Government’s ambition as it represents and symbolises universal themes of reconciliation, memory and living well together in tolerance and despite differences.
She also assured that France is ready to provide its support for this project, as her country has the recognised international expertise in establishing museums, and shares the same values as Mauritius.
