Made in Moris embarks on its first exploratory mission to Rodrigues, meeting local entrepreneurs and officials to promote quality local products.
Introduction to the Made in Moris Mission
The Made in Moris initiative, designed to promote Mauritius’ local products and craftsmanship, has embarked on its first reconnaissance mission to Rodrigues. Invited by the Regional Assembly of Rodrigues, this visit aims to assess the potential for launching a local label, “Made in Rodrig,” that mirrors the successful approach of the main program in Mauritius. The delegation seeks to engage with local entrepreneurs, understand the industrial landscape, and identify opportunities to enhance the island’s production standards.
Delegation Members and Their Roles
The mission team consists of key figures from the Made in Moris initiative and the Association of Mauritian Manufacturers (AMM). Chief Executive Officer Shirin Gunny leads the delegation, supported by Anya Dundoo (Sustainability & Community Building Manager), Yann Charlotte (Operations & New Business Development Manager), Thanaa Kurmally Atchia (Branding & Communication Manager), and Charlotte Moothooveeren (Project Executive of En Route Vers Made in Moris & Made in Moris Pledge).
Strategic Objectives of the Delegation
The team’s primary objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of Rodrigues’ manufacturing and craft sectors. Through consultations and field visits, the delegation aims to identify best practices, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. This approach ensures that the eventual “Made in Rodrig” label will be aligned with local realities while leveraging the experience gained from Mauritius.
High-Level Meetings with Rodrigues Authorities
The delegation met with Johnson Roussety, Deputy Chief Commissioner and Commissioner for Industrial Development, highlighting the strategic importance of collaboration between local authorities and the Made in Moris initiative. These high-level discussions emphasized industrial development, support for artisans, and alignment of policies to foster entrepreneurship and sustainable growth.
Multisectoral Work Sessions
To ensure a holistic approach, the team participated in multisectoral work sessions involving representatives from industrial development, craft, agriculture, and tourism sectors. These sessions allowed for a deeper understanding of the island’s unique economic ecosystem and facilitated discussions on how the proposed label could integrate multiple sectors to maximize its impact.
On-the-Ground Visits to Local Enterprises
Field visits to local businesses and meetings with artisans provided invaluable insights into the practical realities of Rodrigues’ economic landscape. Delegation members observed production techniques, identified quality standards, and discussed challenges faced by entrepreneurs. These visits reinforced the importance of supporting local industries through capacity-building, marketing assistance, and infrastructure development.
Insights on Strategic Opportunities
According to Shirin Gunny, the upcoming opening of a new airport in Rodrigues represents a strategic opportunity to expand the reach of high-quality local products. The team emphasized that promoting local craftsmanship and industrial outputs can significantly enhance economic visibility, attract investors, and create sustainable job opportunities.
Recommendations for the ‘Made in Rodrig’ Label
Based on observations and consultations, the Made in Moris delegation will provide detailed recommendations for establishing a “Made in Rodrig” label. These recommendations will focus on product quality, branding, sustainability, and market positioning. The goal is to ensure that local products gain recognition both nationally and internationally, while supporting economic growth on the island.
Leveraging Mauritius’ Experience
The lessons learned from Made in Moris in Mauritius including successes, challenges, and obstacles serve as a valuable framework for Rodrigues. By adapting these experiences, the local authorities can create a robust system that supports entrepreneurs, ensures quality, and boosts market competitiveness.
Community Engagement and Capacity Building
Another critical aspect of the mission is fostering community engagement. The delegation stressed the importance of involving local stakeholders in decision-making processes. Workshops, training sessions, and interactive discussions with entrepreneurs and artisans will strengthen community ownership and enhance the overall effectiveness of the label.
Future Steps and Implementation
At the conclusion of the reconnaissance mission, the team will submit a comprehensive report to the Regional Assembly of Rodrigues. This report will outline actionable steps, timelines, and resource allocations necessary for launching the “Made in Rodrig” initiative. Authorities will then be equipped to implement a program that reflects the island’s cultural heritage and economic priorities.
Strategic Importance for Rodrigues’ Economy
The establishment of a local label such as “Made in Rodrig” is expected to bring multiple benefits, including increased visibility for local products, higher demand from international markets, and stronger support for small businesses and artisans. It aligns with Rodrigues’ broader economic development strategies and positions the island as a center for quality craftsmanship in the Indian Ocean region.
Enhancing Tourism through Local Products
By promoting local products, the initiative can also boost tourism, as visitors increasingly seek authentic experiences and souvenirs. Collaborating with the tourism sector ensures that the label not only supports production but also contributes to the wider economic ecosystem, benefiting hospitality, retail, and cultural sectors.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for Local Industry
The reconnaissance mission of Made in Moris to Rodrigues represents a critical step in expanding the influence of Mauritius’ successful local product initiatives. By engaging authorities, entrepreneurs, and artisans, the project paves the way for a sustainable, high-quality, and market-ready “Made in Rodrig” label. The initiative promises economic growth, stronger local identity, and international recognition for the island’s products.
For further insights on Mauritius events , see our detailed coverage on Mauritius news.
Additional reference on Rodrigues’ economic development can be found at Rodrigues Regional Assembly Official Site.
