Best Practices: Agriculture

Organic Farming

Case Study: "FAREI"

FAREI is a pioneer in organic farming in Mauritius, focusing on producing organic vegetables and fruits without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The farm uses compost and green manure to enrich the soil, practices crop rotation to manage pests naturally, and has received organic certification, which has opened up international markets.

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Agriculture & Processing

The 30-hectare Domaine de Labourdonnais orchards, dedicated to sustainable agriculture, cultivate over 15 tropical fruit varieties including papayas, mangoes, and citrus, plus two hectares of vanilla. Using traditional and eco-friendly techniques, the orchards produce 150 tonnes of fruit and 200 kilograms of dried vanilla annually. Products are sold at La Corbeille, local supermarkets, exported worldwide and under the Les Vergers de Labourdonnais brand, highlighting Mauritius' flavors.  Les Vergers de Labourdonnais' wide range of products include fruit jams, fruit candies, juices, sorbets & ice-cream, ice lollies, chilli pastes, and more.

Agricultural Biotechnology and Sustainable Agriculture

Case Study:“BioAgri O.I.”

BioAgri O.I. is a portal developed by CIRAD for the ePRPV and Germination projects. It is supported by funding from the European Union, the French government, and Réunion collectivities. Additionally, it is part of the IRACC project, which is directed by the Indian Ocean Commission and financed by IFAD.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Case Study: "Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute (MSIRI)"

MSIRI has developed IPM strategies for sugarcane, which is a major crop in Mauritius. This includes the introduction of natural predators and biological control agents to manage pests such as the sugarcane borer. These practices have reduced the reliance on chemical pesticides, improving environmental sustainability.

Comment: Mauritian in MSIRI changed to Mauritius

See an article

Smart Agriculture

The Smart Agriculture project supports Mauritius's agro-ecological transition by promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices. The project optimizes the management of inputs such as pesticides, fertilizers, and water and implements alternative techniques like traps, biodiversity enhancement, and crop rotation tailored to local conditions. These systems enhance traceability and aim to reduce residues from plant-health products, aligning with consumer expectations for healthier products and environmental conservation. Additionally, the project seeks to improve farmers' economic outcomes while ensuring productivity.

Karo Natirel

Launched in 2022, the 'Karo Natirel' project emerged from discussions with beneficiaries of our Smart Agriculture project who sought to distinguish their sustainable vegetable production from conventional methods. Spearheaded by the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture (MCA) in partnership with the Australian High Commission, the project aims to enhance the visibility of farmers' products, acknowledge their commitment to sustainable practices, and deliver healthier products to the market.

Agroforestry

Case Study: "The Agroforestry Project in Moka"

This project integrates tree planting with crop cultivation, combining fruit trees like mangoes and avocados with lower-growing crops. It has helped in improving biodiversity, enhancing soil structure, and reducing erosion, thereby demonstrating a sustainable model that local farmers are beginning to replicate.

Soil Health Management

Case Study: "Soil Health Initiative by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security"

This government-led initiative provides farmers with soil testing services to tailor soil management practices effectively. Recommendations for fertilization, organic amendments, and cover cropping based on soil test results have helped improve yields and sustainability.

Also see Nairobi Declaration - 2024 Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit

Presentation National Action Plan for Sustainable Land Management for Mauritius and Rodrigues

Strategic Plan (2016 - 2020) For The Food Crop, Livestock and Forestry Sectors 

Agritech Mauritius Research Centre

Agritech Mauritius Research Centre integrates technology, science and innovation into agriculture to improve sustainability and profitability for Mauritian entrepreneurs.  Agritech research centre focuses on driving greater efficiency across the agri-food sector and investing in pioneering resources and research to address challenges that no single sector can address on their own.

Sustainable Crop Rotation

Case Study: “Rotational Cropping”

A cooperative in Belle Mare practices rotational cropping with sugarcane, legumes, and root crops. This rotation helps break pest cycles, reduce chemical inputs, and sustain soil fertility, leading to more stable yields and reduced environmental impact.

Buffer Zones to Protect Waterways

Case Study: "Riparian Buffers in Rivière Noire"

Farmers along the Rivière Noire have established vegetative buffer zones consisting of native shrubs and trees. These buffers filter runoff, preventing fertilizer and pesticide pollution in the river, and also serve as wildlife habitats.

The Central Electricity Board (CEB) (CAV) Scheme

 In the initial and current phase of the Scheme, the CEB considers applications from potential project developers in the Agricultural Sector. This includes planters and breeders who are engaged in or planning to undertake agricultural activities aimed at contributing to national food security.  

Promoting Local Seed Varieties

Case Study: "Heirloom Tomato Cultivation on Small Farms"

Small-scale farmers in the eastern regions of Mauritius have successfully cultivated local heirloom tomato varieties. These varieties are better adapted to local conditions, requiring fewer chemical treatments and are popular in local markets.

Greenhouses/Hydroponics

The setting up of sheltered farms, in line with Government's policy to stimulate agricultural innovation and promote sustainable agriculture and local food production of fruits and vegetables, is gaining in popularity across Mauritius.

Biological Control Agents of Key Pests in Mauritius

Mauritius is globally recognized for using biological control in sugarcane pest management, while pesticides are heavily applied in vegetable and fruit production. Biological control, which uses living organisms to manage pests, offers a safer alternative to chemicals, preserving pollinators, avoiding toxic residues, and preventing environmental pollution. This video highlights the biological control agents active in local fields, targeting pests like red spider mites, yellow sugarcane aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and fruit flies.

Renewable Energy in Agriculture

Case Study: “Solar-Powered Poultry Farms in Flacq”

Several poultry farms in Flacq have installed solar panels to power ventilation systems and lighting. This reduces their carbon footprint and operational costs, showcasing a successful integration of renewable energy in agribusiness.

Leveraging apiculture as a sustainable economic activity in Mauritius

Apiculture involves the raising and care of bees for commercial or agricultural purposes. Honey production is being leveraged as a sustainable economic activity in the country for the consumption of honey remains highly popular. As far as Mauritius is concerned, 90 percent of its consumption, that is 300 tons, is imported.
Local honey production has increased from 27 tons in 2020 to 30 tons in 2021 and 2022. Honey has found another niche market in the wake of increased awareness on the importance of bio food. Indeed, apart from being a culinary delicacy, it remains a highly consumed commodity because of its medicinal benefits, antioxidant properties, as well as its antibacterial and antifungal power. 
The targeted local honey production for 2023 is 33 tons. Besides, boosting local honey production is aligned with the national strategy of promoting local production to achieve the goal of consolidating food security.

There are currently three bee zones in Mauritius. They are located at Petit Sable, La Ferme, and Bras d’Eau. Another key advantage of beekeeping is its contribution to the pollination of plants which contributes to the increased production of vegetables and fruits.