GIS – 24 October 2025: Reinforcing Mauritius’s leadership in the regional and global fight against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through innovation, partnership, and evidence-based care was at the fore of discussions, today, during a courtesy call on the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, by Dr Christopher Walton, Professor Fabrice Bonnet and Dr Faraz Pathan at the New Treasury Building, in Port-Louis.
The three foreign doctors are in fact among the key panellists participating in the International Conference on ‘Addressing the crisis in Heart, Kidney and Metabolic Disorders’, organised jointly by the Ministry of Health and Wellness with the Hatter Cardiovascular Institute of the University College London. The International Conference is being hosted on 25 and 26 October 2025 at the Ravenala Attitude Hotel, in Balaclava, to deliberate on the growing burden of NCDs, notably diabetes, cardiovascular and renal disorders, which remain the leading causes of death and disability in Mauritius.
The objectives are to address the crisis in heart, kidney and metabolic disorders and share evidence-based strategies which can be devised for prevention and management of cardio-renal and metabolic diseases.
In a statement following the meeting, Dr Walton underlined that discussions with the Prime Minister were cordial and fruitful and focussed on the prevention and remission of type 2 diabetes. He expressed concern over the alarming rise of the condition in Mauritius, pointing out that nearly 40% of Mauritian teenagers are pre-diabetic.
He indicated that obesity and diabetes are global challenges which need to be addressed in a timely and effective manner. He also called for greater promotion of healthy lifestyles and regular physical activity to curb the growing trend. Mauritius needs to become a centre of excellence and a leader in training of health professionals, he added.
Likewise, Dr Pathan addressed the growing prevalence of heart diseases in Mauritius and across the world. He also stressed the need for greater awareness, early detection, and lifestyle changes to reduce related risks.
As for Professor Fabrice Bonnet, he expressed hope that Mauritius and France could reinforce collaboration in the training of young doctors and the medical staff for better management of NCDs. He further underlined the potential for enhanced cooperation in medical research and development between the two countries.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
