Mauritius joins global celebration of ocean science and sustainability during Dr. Fridtjof Nansen visit

11 June 2025, Port Louis, Mauritius – The research vessel (R/V) Dr. Fridtjof Nansen docked in Port Louis today, marking a significant milestone: the 50th anniversary of the EAF-Nansen Programme – the longest-running fisheries development initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Norway.

The occasion was celebrated with a high-level event co-organized by the Ministry of Agro Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, the Norwegian Embassy and FAO. Taking place just days after World Oceans Day (8 June), the event underscored the growing global momentum for sustainable ocean stewardship and science-based fisheries management. For Mauritius, it reaffirmed the country’s leadership in advancing marine conservation and the sustainable use of ocean resources in the Western Indian Ocean.

“The arrival of the Dr. Fridtjof Nansen is a powerful reminder of the importance of science and solidarity in protecting our oceans. Mauritius is proud to be part of this global effort to ensure that our marine resources are managed sustainably for future generations,” said Arvin Boolell, Minister of Agro Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, during the opening ceremony.

Mauritius’ ocean territory is a source of food, livelihoods, culture, and commerce. Yet, despite its vast potential, it faces threats from climate change, marine pollution, and overfishing – all of which place increasing pressure on marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

Arvin Boolell, Minister of Agro Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, during the opening ceremony, together with Haakon Gram-Johannessen, the Norwegian Ambassador to Mauritius, and Lisa Simrique Singh, UN Resident Coordinator in Mauritius and Seychelles. © Norwegian Embassy in Mozambique
Haakon Gram-Johannessen, the Norwegian Ambassador to Mauritius, highlighted the enduring partnership between Norway, FAO, and coastal states. “For five decades, the Nansen Programme has exemplified what long-term cooperation can achieve. It is a testament to the power of science, diplomacy, and shared responsibility in securing the future of our oceans.” On the Dr. Fritjof Nansen’s expeditions in Mauritian waters, he underlined that; “this speaks to the relations between Norway and Mauritius. Relations which are embedded in our common interest, passion and dependency of the oceans.”

Following the opening ceremony, guest had the opportunity to explore the facilities aboard, guided by the captain, scientists, and crew from the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (IMR) who operate the vessel.

“The Dr. Fridtjof Nansen has visited Mauritius several times, with the first call dating back to 2008,” explained Kathrine Michalsen, EAF-Nansen Programme Survey Coordinator and cruise leader of the recent fisheries and ecosystem survey in Mauritian waters. “During the guided tour, guests gained firsthand insights into key areas of marine science, including fisheries acoustics, species identification, oceanography, and seabed habitat mapping. This experience helps illustrate how the data collected during our surveys informs fisheries management and marine conservation efforts in the region.”

Scientists, crew from IMR, and Haakon Gram-Johannessen, the Norwegian Ambassador to Mauritius, during the guided tour aboard the R/V Dr. Fridtjof Nansen. © Norwegian Embassy in Mozambique
This visit also coincides with the ongoing UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, during which the EAF-Nansen Programme was recognized for its pioneering role in advancing ocean science, biodiversity assessments, and capacity development in developing countries.

“As we look to the future, the EAF-Nansen Programme offers a model for science-based decision-making. Its contributions support Mauritius’ leadership in ocean sustainability and align with global efforts to build a resilient and inclusive blue economy,” said Lisa Simrique Singh, UN Resident Coordinator in Mauritius and Seychelles.

The port call in Mauritius is not only a celebration of 50 years of scientific excellence - it is a call to action. As the EAF-Nansen Programme continues to evolve, it remains a cornerstone of FAO’s Blue Transformation vision: building more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable aquatic food systems for a better future.

About the Programme

The EAF-Nansen Programme is a partnership between FAO, Norway, executed in close collaboration with IMR, regional organizations, and partner countries. Since 1975, it has worked with 60 countries across Africa, Asia, Central and South America, to strengthen fisheries management and research for food security and nutrition. 

As the Programme celebrates its 50th anniversary and its many successes, significant challenges remain to be addressed. These include the impacts of climate change, marine pollution, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable practices, all of which continue to threaten ocean sustainability.

The Programme will continue addressing these issues to ensure that fisheries can continue providing food and livelihoods for millions of people. Going forward it will place an even stronger focus on fisheries management including the nexus between science and management, while contributing to Agenda 2030 and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).