A cheque amounting to Rs 9,102,763.58, collected through a Teledon organised to raise funds for the victims of the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria, was handed over to the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms Lisa Simrique Singh, by the Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Alan Ganoo, and the Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, Mrs Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo.

The handover ceremony was held, yesterday, at the seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, in Port-Louis.

It is recalled that the Teledon kicked off on 28 February 2023 at the City Council of Port Louis and was coordinated by the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity.

Minister Ganoo expressed satisfaction as regards the contribution made by the Mauritian population. “Government,” he indicated, “has contributed 50,000 USD,” which, according to him, is a significant sum for a small economy like Mauritius.

For her part, Minister Jeewa-Daureeawoo thanked all those who contributed to this cause especially non-governmental organisations, the community, the public and the private sector.

As for Ms Lisa Simrique Singh, she said that this generous donation by the Mauritian population would back up reconstruction efforts of the countries hit by the earthquake. “We will work in close collaboration with our partners to cater for food, medical supplies, blankets, and other necessary items”, she stated, adding that Mauritius had always responded positively to countries in need and in times of trouble.