Ministry of Arts and Culture Leads National Commemoration of the 191st Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery
Mauritius commemorate the 191st Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery with the official national ceremony being held at the Le Morne Brabant, a site of profound historical significance symbolising resistance and the struggle for freedom.
Under the leadership of the Ministry of Arts and Culture, the commemorative event was held in collaboration with the Le Morne Heritage Trust Fund, the National Heritage Trust Fund and the Nelson Mandela Centre for African Culture.
A wreath-laying ceremony took place at the International Slave Route Monument, where several dignitaries paid homage to the enslaved ancestors whose courage, resilience and sacrifice form a fundamental part of the nation’s history. Among those present were the Vice-President of the Republic, His Excellency Jean Yvan Robert Hungley, GCSK; the Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Paul Raymond Bérenger, GCSK; the Minister of Arts and Culture, Honourable Mahendra Gondeea, OSK and the Junior Minister of Arts and Culture, Honourable Marie Veronique Leu-Govind. Ministers, Members of Parliament and members of the Diplomatic Corps also attended the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, Honourable Paul Raymond Bérenger underlined the importance of preserving and understanding the history of Mauritius, particularly that of slavery and indentured labour. He emphasised that a duty of remembrance remains essential for strengthening national unity and encouraging citizens, especially the youth, to become defenders of freedom.
For his part, Honourable Mahendra Gondeea highlighted that the commemoration is not only about remembering the suffering and sacrifices endured by enslaved ancestors, but also about celebrating their courage and determination. Referring to the powerful symbolism of Le Morne, he described the site as a place that embodies humility, resistance and inner strength.
The Minister also reaffirmed Government’s commitment to further recognising and valuing the historical significance of the region. An investment of Rs 50 million over the next three years has been earmarked for projects including the restoration and preservation of the Open Air Museum and the Trou Chenille trail, as part of broader efforts to safeguard and promote the nation’s heritage.
A cultural segment formed part of the ceremony, featuring speeches, slam performances and musical renditions that reflected the suffering endured during slavery as well as the evolution of sega as a cultural expression born from that history.
In her address, the Junior Minister of Arts and Culture, Honourable Marie Veronique Leu-Govind, stressed the need to continue addressing discrimination that still echoes the legacy of slavery, while also calling for collective efforts to confront the growing scourge of drug abuse affecting many families.
