From Mauritius With Love To Nepal

The Mauritian government donates $500,000 to Nepal’s Earthquake Relief Efforts, while citizens contribute more than $200,000 in a single day via a national fundraising effort.

Two weeks ago, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake ripped through Nepal, and the aftershocks continue to terrorize residents till today. Many countries around the world have stepped up and stood in solidarity with Nepal.

Some of the countries that have donated relief materials or sent their search and rescue teams to Nepal are India, China, United States, UK, South Africa, Sri Lanka, South Korea and Algeria.

This week, I learned that the picturesque island country of Mauritius is raising money for earthquake relief efforts in Nepal.

Prime Minister, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, has set up a Solidarity Fund for Nepal and the government has generously contributed US $500,000 towards it.

The national fundraiser on May 8 raised over 7.4 million Mauritian Rupees, which is more than $210,000.

Thousands of Orange customers contributed Rs. 10 with each ‘nepal’ text message to 8916. And many more contributed via wire transfer to specific account in the 3 major banks in Mauritius.

Zarina, an aviation student in Mauritius who contributed to the fundraiser, said “The photo of a 4 month old baby girl being rescued out of the rubble really touched me.” She said, “I stand in solidarity with the people of Nepal, who are going through such a difficult time right now.”

Mauritius holds a dear spot in my heart, because of the generous hospitality they offered me when I was traveling there late last year. I strongly recommend that you travel to Mauritius, but don’t forget for French Phrasebook. When you go there, here are 3 things you must do: 1) Catamaran ride from Grand Bay to Gabriel Island. 2) Drive South to Gris Gris to see the magnificent waves crash into the rocky shore. 3) Drink Alouda in Mahebourg while the mighty Lion Mountain looks at you.