Mauritius: In the context of the International Day for Biological Diversity, observed on 22 May annually, safer access to the Black River Peak trail was inaugurated this morning at the Black River Gorges National Park.
The Senior Chief Executive of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security, Mrs Moheenee Nathoo, the Director of the National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS), Kevin Ruhomaun, and other personalities were present at the event, organised the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security and the NPCS.
In her address, Nathoo spoke of the importance of biodiversity and called for immediate and concrete actions to preserve the environment better. “We should accelerate our efforts and continue to educate and sensitise the population on preservation and sustainable use of biological diversity”, she stated.
Furthermore, she indicated that the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme are assisting the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security in the restoration of local biodiversity.
She also called on each citizen to recognise the importance of strong biodiversity and join in the efforts to preserve the environment.
As for Ruhomaun, he underlined that the NPCS is undertaking a number of initiatives with the support of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security to implement infrastructural development and enhance the conservation of parks, which are touristic destinations.
He pointed out that the NPCS closed the previous access to the peak trail as it was unsafe for visitors and added that the Black River Peak trail leading to the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire will henceforth start at the Black River Gorges View Point.
International Day for Biological Diversity
The International Day for Biological Diversity is a United Nations–sanctioned international day for the promotion of biodiversity issues.
Given the importance of public education and awareness for the implementation of the Convention, the General Assembly proclaimed 22 May, the date of the adoption of its text, as the International Day for Biological Diversity by its resolution 55/201 of 20 December 2000.
This year’s theme will promote action in support of the Kumming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework: “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity’’.