Mauritius: The Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security launched the first Mobile Veterinary clinic in Mauritius. The inauguration of the clinic was hosted in Reduit on Monday with the members of the partner organizations in attendance
SEGA- One Health network of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) played a crucial role in making the milestone achievable. The government achieved this milestone with the financial support of the Agence française de développement (AFD) and the European Union (EU).
The First Mobile Veterinary Hospital in the country was constructed with an investment of Rs 9 million. The Minister of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mahen Kumar Seeruttun was in attendance at the inauguration.
He was accompanied by the Secretary-General of the IOC, Professor Vêlayoudom Marimoutou. The Minister delivered a brief address at the inauguration of the mobile Veterinary Clinic. He highlighted some of the facilities available at the hospital.
The new mobile clinic included a microscope for lab diagnostics, secure drug storage, a disinfection system, and a refrigerator for post-mortem exams.
“These upgrades significantly enhance the Veterinary Services Division’s local service delivery, enabling veterinarians to perform caesarean sections, ultrasound-based pregnancy checks, and rapid disease diagnostics with greater efficiency,” the Minister pointed out.
Minister Seeruttun highlighted that the support of IOC’was very importany for the people of Mauritius. They have helped the nation in several issues including effective disease control, vaccine donations, veterinary assistance, equipment provision, and capacity-building initiatives.
“Plans for a future master’s programme in epidemiology further underscore their commitment to strengthening Mauritius’ veterinary capabilities,” he added.
The animal breeders were also present at the inauguration event for the day. The Agro-Industry Minister addressed the breeders and reflected on the last budget presentation.
During the said event, the administration delivered a comprehensive package aimed at developing the livestock farming in the nation. The minister claimed that it is critical for food security. The administration also discussed several measures including subsidies for importing new breeds of cows, goats, pigs, and sheep.
They also announced significant funding for constructing and improving livestock facilities within the island nation. Professor Marimoutou asserted that this modern clinic would ensure improved animal healthcare.
The clinic will also help equip healthcare professionals with the rapid and effective interventions. The new development will directly benefit the communities, especially livestock farmers in the country. In the same vein, he indicated that high-quality local veterinary services would now be more accessible.
He asserted that they will play a crucial role in preventing zoonotic diseases by providing direct service delivery. The animals will have access to safe surgical environments, enhanced diagnostics, secure sample transportation, and efficient management through real-time GPS tracking.