GIS – 09 July 2026: “Our unity in cultural diversity is the bedrock that empowers the Republic to withstand any challenge,” affirmed the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, this afternoon, during the celebration of La Journée de la culture Rodriguaise, at the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture, in Pointe aux Sables.
The 10th edition of La Journée de la Culture Rodriguaise is a joint initiative of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture Trust Fund, under the aegis of the Ministry of Arts and Culture, and the Mouvement Solidarité Rodrigues. This annual national celebration is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the unique cultural heritage of Rodrigues. It showcased the richness and diversity of Rodriguan culture through its traditional music, dance, handicrafts, gastronomy and local entrepreneurship.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie; the Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Mahendra Gondeea; the Chief Commissioner of Rodrigues Regional Assembly, Mr Franceau Aubret Grandcourt; the Director of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture Trust Fund, Mr Stéphan Karghoo; the President of the Mouvement Solidarité Rodrigues, Mr Jean Margéot Ravina; and other personalities were present at the event.
In his keynote address, the Prime Minister commended the celebration of Rodriguan culture, highlighting that such initiatives promote the cultural heritage while reinforcing national unity and fraternity. He emphasised that culture serves as the national heritage—keeping past history alive, uniting new generations, and binding individuals to society.
Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam also stated that the Government recognises the vital need to support artists and promote arts and culture, which is reflected in the substantial financial assistance earmarked in the 2026–27 Budget. On that score, the Prime Minister underlined the key role of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture Trust Fund in promoting the authentic richness of African and Creole arts and culture.
Furthermore, Dr Ramgoolam reassured that the infrastructural development of Rodrigues remains a pivotal priority, reiterating Mauritius’ unwavering support for the island. He praised too the abundance of talent in sports, as well as the overall resilience and creativity of Rodriguans.
For the Deputy Prime Minister, the successful preservation of Rodriguan roots, culture, and traditions stands as a true inspiration. Speaking on the essential role of women, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie praised the creativity and talent of Rodriguan women as vital guardians of tradition. “By passing down this rich heritage, they play a central role in reinforcing the community’s collective identity,” she stressed.
As for the Minister of Arts and Culture, he described Rodriguan culture as a profound source of pride for the Republic, noting that its unique traditions enrich the national identity. Mr Mahendra Gondeea renewed his pledge to ensure that Rodriguan arts and culture receive their due recognition, dignity and respect.
For his part, the Chief Commissioner thanked the Government for its ongoing financial support towards the island’s infrastructural development, as well as its efforts to celebrate and preserve Rodriguan culture and heritage.
Mr Franceau Aubret Grandcourt thus highlighted several sustainable development projects in the pipeline. He particularly emphasised the ‘farm-to-fork’ initiative aimed at protecting the environment and boosting public health. He expressed pride as well that Mauritius looks to Rodrigues as a role model in various fields, notably in sports and water desalination.
The Director of the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture Trust Fund stated that the event celebrates both Rodrigues’ unique heritage and the cultural unity binding the Republic’s islands. Mr Stéphan Karghoo added that the Centre is celebrating its 40th Anniversary, marking four decades of dedicated efforts to preserve and promote African and Creole heritage.
The President of the Mouvement Solidarité Rodrigues underlined the key mission of his organisation in ensuring that Rodriguans who live in Mauritius are able to stay connected to the roots and traditions while preserving the cultural heritage.
12 July 2026
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Topics: Culture
