Mauritius has firmly positioned itself as a digital innovation leader in Africa and the Indian Ocean. Ranking first in Sub-Saharan Africa on the 2024 Oxford Insights AI Readiness Index, the country’s readiness stems from years of structured policy, infrastructure investment, and cross-sector integration. The government’s strategy focuses on building ethical, inclusive, and industry-ready AI systems across the public and private sectors.
The Ministry of Technology, Communication and Innovation has led several transformative initiatives including the Mauritius Artificial Intelligence Strategy (launched in 2018), which outlined frameworks for AI in smart agriculture, financial services, and ocean economy development. In 2024, the country hosted its inaugural AI Summit under the patronage of UNESCO, drawing leaders from across Africa to discuss AI’s role in socio-economic resilience.
President Prithvirajsing Roopun opened the summit with a national call to action, stating, “Mauritius must lead by example. As a small island developing state, we will show that digital sovereignty is possible through smart, ethical AI.” The national government continues to fund infrastructure upgrades to ensure AI readiness, including fiber optic expansion, open government data portals, and regulatory sandboxes for technology firms.
The Ministry of Education has embedded AI literacy into its Digital Youth Strategy, and the Higher Education Commission has funded a new Research Scheme in Artificial Intelligence focused on climate adaptation, cybersecurity, and smart mobility. Over 1,200 students are currently enrolled in AI and data-related programs, supported by international university exchange partnerships in France, India, and Singapore.
To catalyze investment, Mauritius now offers an 80% tax exemption for licensed AI advisory service companies, alongside a 15% investment tax credit for eligible capital expenditures in AI infrastructure. Minister Soomilduth Bholah noted, “The financial services sector stands at the forefront of innovation. AI will power the next generation of compliance, customer experience, and global competitiveness.”
Government Readiness: Mauritius is actively integrating AI into its national development agenda. Hosting the AI Summit under UNESCO’s patronage and implementing the Mauritius AI Strategy signal deep national commitment to digital transformation. As President Roopun said, “Mauritius must lead by example.” With infrastructure, education, and investment tools in place, AI readiness is high across the country’s public and private sectors.
Projected Financial Impact: A 30% integration of A32i platforms could yield an annual uplift of $180–$275 million for Mauritius, equal to 7.8–11.9% of national GDP. Major gains include $70M in smarter governance, $30M in food systems, and $15M in social cost recovery. National ROI is projected within 18–36 months.