High-level conference explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence

Mauritius is seeking to strengthen its role in the ongoing global digital transformation and the emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) landscape, a vision highlighted this morning at the opening of the High-level Conference, ‘Reimagining Tomorrow in the Age of AI – Where Opportunity Meets Everyone’, held in Trianon in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Dhananjay Ramful.

Organised by the Bauen Solutions Ltd in collaboration with EXU Ltd, it aims at bringing together leaders from both the public and private sectors to explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Mauritius’ economy, workforce and national development. The conference will be led by Mr Matthew Griffin, an internationally recognised futurist and adviser to Governments and global organisations.

In his keynote address, Minister Ramful characterised AI as a defining force of the 21st century, reshaping everything from global economies and governance, healthcare, security to diplomacy. He noted that national influence now also stems from technological readiness and digital capability. Mauritius, he informed is motivated to strengthen partnerships to build durable national capability and become a trusted AI governance jurisdiction and a constructive regional partner.

Addressing the panel theme, “From Fear to Strategy,” the Minister argued that while every major technological revolution in history has generated uncertainty and disruption, history also teaches that those who prepare early, invest wisely and adapt strategically are the ones who benefit the most. He therefore called for AI to be approached with clarity, ambition, vision and responsibility, rather than fear.

Speaking about Mauritius’ Strategic Position in the Age of AI, he indicated that the country is committed to engage with it proactively and strategically and has moved decisively with key initiatives. These include: the launch of the National AI Strategy 2025–2029 together with the FAIR Guidelines for the Development and Use of AI and the establishment of an operational AI Marketplace.

According to Mr Ramful, these concrete institutional foundations place Mauritius in a distinctive international position as a small island State seeking to lead credibly on responsible AI governance, emphasising that we must aspire to become active contributors to innovation, trusted regional partners and creators of value within the global digital economy.

Mauritius’ objective, he said, is focused on demonstrating how responsible, ethical and inclusive AI governance can be implemented effectively within a small State and made available as a model that others may adapt.

The Minister also asserted that Mauritius must leverage its comparative advantages specifically its governance credibility, strong rule-of-law institutions, established International Financial Centre ecosystem, unique multilingual profile and strategic geopolitical position at the intersection of Africa, Asia and Europe to serve as a bridge for dialogue, standards, governance cooperation and responsible innovation.

Moreover, he insisted on the benefits of international cooperation and strategic partnerships when navigating the AI transition, which will enable shaping a future where AI serves humanity collectively and responsibly.

14 May 2026

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Topics: Artificial Intelligence