Mauritius National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center
Established under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act 2016, our center serves as the primary institution in Mauritius for coordinating and monitoring the implementation of disaster risk reduction and management activities. We work diligently to protect communities and build national resilience against various disasters through a comprehensive approach.
- Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
- Early Warning Systems
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Post-Disaster Recovery Planning
- Community Disaster Education
- Risk Assessment and Mapping
Our Vision
To build a disaster-resilient Mauritius through comprehensive disaster risk reduction and management approaches that protect lives, livelihoods, property, and the environment while ensuring sustainable development.
We envision a society where all communities understand disaster risks and actively participate in preparedness, mitigation, and response activities.
Our Mission
To coordinate and facilitate the implementation of disaster risk reduction and management activities across all sectors and levels in Mauritius through:
- Developing effective policies, frameworks, and plans
- Strengthening institutional capacity and coordination
- Promoting disaster risk awareness and education
- Enhancing early warning systems and emergency services
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act 2016
Our center was established under Act No. 2 of 2016, which provides the comprehensive legal framework for disaster management in Mauritius. The legislation outlines the structure, responsibilities, and operational procedures for disaster risk reduction and management at national, regional, and local levels.
"To provide for disaster risk reduction and management, and for related matters."
The Act establishes the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the National Centre, the National Crisis Committee, the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees, and specific provisions for Rodrigues, Agalega, and Cargados Carajos.
Download Full Act
Organizational Structure
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center operates through a multi-tiered governance structure that ensures effective coordination at all levels.
National Council
The highest policy-making body responsible for formulating disaster management policies and overseeing implementation of the Strategic Framework and National Plan. Chaired by the Minister responsible for disaster management, it brings together representatives from all relevant ministries and stakeholders.
The Council meets monthly to review disaster preparedness activities and make strategic decisions on disaster risk reduction.
National Centre
The operational arm of the disaster management system, responsible for coordinating and monitoring the implementation of disaster risk reduction and management activities. The Centre develops and implements the National Strategic Framework and National Plan.
Led by the Director-General, the Centre works closely with all stakeholders to build national capacity for disaster risk reduction.
National Crisis Committee
Activated during disasters, this committee takes decisive and timely actions through the National Emergency Operations Command (NEOC). Chaired by the Minister, it includes key officials responsible for emergency response coordination.
The Committee has the authority to issue various orders to ensure public safety during disasters.
Local Committees
Each local authority has a Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee responsible for implementing disaster management activities at the local level. These committees work closely with communities to conduct risk assessments and build local capacity.
Local Disaster Management Coordinators serve as liaison officers between the National Centre and local authorities.
Our Key Functions
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre fulfills a range of critical functions to ensure comprehensive disaster management across Mauritius.
Prevention and Mitigation
We identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities, then develop strategies to prevent disasters or reduce their impacts through structural and non-structural measures.
Preparedness
We build capacity at all levels through training, equipment, and resources to ensure effective response to disasters. Regular drills and simulations test and improve response capabilities.
Response
When disasters strike, we coordinate emergency operations through the National Emergency Operations Command (NEOC) to save lives, protect property, and provide immediate relief.
Recovery
After a disaster, we support communities in rebuilding infrastructure, restoring services, and rehabilitating affected areas with a focus on building back better.
Public Education
We conduct awareness campaigns and educational programs to inform communities about disaster risks and preparedness measures to build a culture of safety and resilience.
Multi-Agency Coordination
We facilitate collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, private sector, and international partners to ensure an integrated approach to disaster management.
National Strategic Framework
Our National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Strategic Framework guides all disaster management activities across Mauritius. It aligns our approach with international standards while adapting to local contexts.
International Alignment
Our Strategic Framework is aligned with international frameworks including:
- Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Paris Agreement on Climate Change
Core Principles
Our approach is guided by the following principles:
- Multi-hazard approach to disaster risk management
- Whole-of-society engagement and partnership
- Integration of disaster risk reduction into development planning
- Building resilience through local community involvement
- Enhanced use of technology and innovation
Our Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated professionals who lead our disaster management efforts across Mauritius.
Dr. Raj Patel
Director-General
Mrs. Anita Ramgoolam
Director of Operations
Mr. Jean-Luc Leung
Director of Planning
Our Key Partners
We work closely with various ministries, organizations, and international agencies to strengthen disaster management capabilities.
Ministries
Environment
Health
Defense
Infrastructure
Education
Local Agencies
Met Services
Fire & Rescue
Police Force
Coast Guard
Public Utilities
International Partners
UNDRR
Red Cross
UNDP
World Bank
IOC
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about disaster management in Mauritius.
Mauritius faces several natural hazards, with cyclones being the most frequent and potentially destructive. Other significant disaster risks include:
- Flooding, particularly in low-lying areas
- Landslides in mountainous regions
- Tsunamis and storm surges along coastal areas
- Droughts affecting water resources and agriculture
- Environmental hazards such as oil spills
Climate change is also increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, presenting additional challenges for disaster risk management.
Mauritius has a comprehensive multi-hazard early warning system coordinated by the NDRRMC in collaboration with the Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS). Key components include:
- Cyclone Warning System with four levels of alerts
- Tsunami Warning System connected to regional networks
- Heavy Rainfall and Flood Alert System
- Landslide Monitoring System in high-risk areas
Warnings are disseminated through multiple channels including radio, television, mobile applications, SMS alerts, social media, and community-based warning systems to ensure wide coverage.
Citizens should take the following preparedness measures before cyclone season (November to April):
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential items (water, food, medications, torch, batteries, etc.)
- Secure homes by reinforcing roofs, windows, and doors
- Trim trees near buildings to prevent damage
- Clear drains and gutters to prevent flooding
- Know your evacuation route and the nearest shelter
- Keep important documents in waterproof containers
- Stay informed through official channels about warnings
Detailed cyclone preparedness guides are available on our resources page.
Citizens can volunteer for disaster response in several ways:
- Join the Community Disaster Response Team (CDRT) program through your local authority
- Register with the Mauritius Red Cross Society as a disaster response volunteer
- Participate in NGOs focused on disaster relief
- Register on our volunteer database for specialized skills (medical, engineering, logistics, etc.)
All volunteers receive appropriate training before being deployed for disaster response activities. To register as a volunteer, please visit our volunteer registration page or contact your local disaster management committee.
Following a disaster, the government of Mauritius provides various forms of assistance to affected individuals and communities:
- Emergency shelter for displaced persons
- Emergency food, water, and medical aid
- Financial assistance through the National Disaster Relief Fund
- Housing reconstruction or repair subsidies
- Agricultural relief for affected farmers
- Psychological support services
To apply for post-disaster assistance, affected individuals should register with their local authority disaster management committee or contact the National Disaster Relief Unit at the Ministry of Social Security.
Join Us In Building A Disaster-Resilient Mauritius
Building resilience is a collective effort. Discover how you can contribute to making our communities safer.
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Our Location
NDRRMC Headquarters
10 Disaster Management Avenue
Port Louis, Mauritius