Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Mauritius continue to play a significant role in complementing public sector efforts in addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges. Operating across multiple sectors, local NGOs provide targeted support to vulnerable populations and contribute to long-term development outcomes.
In recent years, NGOs have been particularly active in areas such as environmental sustainability, community health, youth empowerment, and poverty alleviation. Their interventions are often community-driven, allowing for flexible responses to local needs and gaps in government services.
Organisations such as Reef Conservation have contributed to marine protection through coral reef monitoring and public awareness campaigns. Educational outreach initiatives such as “Bis Lamer” have been implemented to enhance environmental education in coastal schools, particularly in the north of the island.
In the social sector, Caritas Mauritius continues to operate community centres across various regions, offering assistance in housing, food support, and job readiness. Programmes are typically focused on low-income households, aiming to reduce long-term dependency through capacity-building and rehabilitation initiatives.
Similarly, T1 Diams works in collaboration with public health institutions to support individuals living with Type 1 diabetes. The organisation provides medical supplies, monitoring assistance, and awareness programmes targeted at young patients and their families.
In the field of child welfare, SOS Children’s Villages maintains residential care and support systems for children without parental care, operating in alignment with international child protection standards. The institution also engages in family strengthening programmes to prevent abandonment.
Gender-focused NGOs, including Gender Links Mauritius, implement advocacy campaigns, provide legal counselling, and support income-generating projects for women, particularly those affected by domestic violence.
While funding and sustainability remain key challenges for many of these organisations, their contribution to national development is increasingly recognised. In several instances, NGOs have also participated in public policy consultations and collaborated with ministries on service delivery and reform.