RE2CLID Programme launched to support climate Resilience efforts in Mauritius and Rodrigues

The Regional Responses to Climate Displacements in Sub-Saharan Africa (RE2CLID) Programme was officially launched, this morning, at The Docks in Port Louis. The initiative aims to strengthen national systems in Mauritius and Rodrigues to prevent, prepare for, and respond to displacement resulting from climate and environmental hazards, including cyclones, floods, coastal erosion, and landslides.

The launch was followed by a workshop organised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in partnership with the Government of Mauritius and the European Union (EU). The workshop introduced the Programme to national stakeholders and development partners, presented its objectives and implementation framework, and provided a platform for discussions on climate mobility and disaster risk reduction priorities in Mauritius.

The Ambassador of the EU to the Republic of Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr Oskar Benedikt; the Chief of Mission for IOM, Ms Alia Hirji; the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms Alka Bhatia; the Officer in Charge of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre, Mr Premanand Budhoo; and other personalities were present.

In his address, Ambassador Benedikt spoke about the importance of maintaining practical and effective preparedness measures in the face of increasing climate-related challenges. Referring to the severe flooding caused by Tropical Cyclone Belal, he stressed the need for proper contingency planning, including evacuation arrangements and emergency support measures, to ensure a more effective response to climate-related emergencies.

Mr Benedikt further reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to continue supporting Mauritius in areas such as disaster preparedness, forecasting, emergency response, and efforts to address the growing impacts of coastal erosion.

For his part, Mr Budhoo highlighted that the RE2CLID Programme brings together Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, Comoros, Mozambique, and Malawi in a common effort to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance resilience to climate-related disasters. He noted that the initiative focuses on risk-informed planning, improved data systems, and stronger early warning mechanisms, while aligning with Mauritius’ National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Policy Strategic Framework and Action Plan 2020–2030.

Mr Budhoo also underscored the progress achieved by Mauritius in disaster risk reduction through improved governance, enhanced preparedness, stronger coordination mechanisms, and continued investment in capacity building. He recalled that support from the EU and the IOM has contributed to strengthening the country’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. The RE2CLID Programme, he added, will build on these ongoing efforts to further reinforce resilience at both national and community levels.

07 July 2026

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