NOTICE UNDER SECTION 32(5) OF THE PORTS ACT
Mauritius Hosts High-Level Workshop to Accelerate Sustainable Smart Port Development in Africa
Port and maritime sector leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders convened yesterday May 27, 2025, at the Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa for a high-level presentation Workshop on Sustainable Smart Ports. Jointly organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA), this event aims to bolster the capacities of African ports in adopting sustainable energy and technology-driven solutions, thereby contributing significantly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Workshop is a key component of UNCTAD’s broader Sustainable Smart Ports (SSP) for Africa project, which strategically focuses on Mauritius, Ghana, and Morocco. The initiative seeks to empower these nations in building resilient and environmentally conscious ports that leverage innovation for efficiency and sustainability.
The opening session featured distinguished addresses that set the tone for the day’s discussions:
- Mrs. Frida Youssef, Chief of Transport Section, UNCTAD, delivered the welcoming remarks, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the initiative.
- Mrs Aruna Bunwaree-Ramsaha, Ag. Director General of the Mauritius Ports Authority, provided the opening address, highlighting MPA’s commitment to driving sustainability in the maritime sector.
- Her Excellency Mrs. Lisa Simrique SINGH, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, delivered the keynote address, officially declaring the Workshop open and underscoring the critical role of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.
Attendees included senior representatives from various government ministries, shipping lines, port stakeholders, and the Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd, reflecting the multi-faceted approach required for port transformation.
“Today’s Workshop marks a crucial milestone in our collective journey towards transforming Port Louis into a sustainable and smart port,” stated Mrs Aruna Bunwaree-Ramsaha, Ag. Director General of the Mauritius Ports Authority. “The insights gained, and partnerships forged here are instrumental in our ambition to position Port Louis as a model Sustainable Smart Port development in the region.”


