Published on May 5, 2025

On Friday 25 April 2025, a delegation from MEDEF International (the leading network of businesses in France), visiting Mauritius, explored the Moka Smart City during educational tour co-organised with the Economic Development Board (EDB). This landmark visit brought together over 40 business leaders from a wide range of sectors and further reinforced the strong French presence already established, with more than 170 French companies operating in the region.

The half-day tour offered participants a first-hand look at Moka’s development and its positioning as a sustainable, innovative, and connected city. It also highlighted the many collaborations already underway between Mauritian and French organisations, while opening the door to future partnerships.

A deep dive in the heart of Moka

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The visit began at Vivéa Business Park with an overview of Mauritius and the ENL Group, followed by a presentation on Moka’s long-term vision and urban development strategy. The delegation then visited several key areas of the city, from Helvétia to Bagatelle, stopping at flagship locations including schools, sports facilities, waste sorting stations, green mobility infrastructure, renewable energy projects, clinics, and commercial zones.

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“We were proud to host the MEDEF delegation and share Moka’s journey, a city designed around a clear purpose: offering a high-quality, sustainable lifestyle with real opportunity,” said Gilbert Espitalier-Noël, CEO of ENL. “It’s also a meaningful way to strengthen ties between Mauritian and French companies and to encourage co-development.”

Beyond showcasing the territory, the visit formed part of a broader effort to deepen economic ties between France and Mauritius. It helped lay the groundwork for future collaboration in areas such as urban planning, the energy transition, innovation, and services.

Céline Gouveia, Chair of MEDEF International’s France–East Africa Council and Vice-President of IN GROUPE, shared her thoughts: “This visit is a powerful example of how French companies can play a role in major, high-impact development projects in Africa. Moka Smart City shows us that urban innovation and strong Franco-Mauritian business relations can thrive together.”

This kind of initiative highlights the strategic role smart cities like Moka can play in regional influence and in building sustainable, long-term economic partnerships.

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