Under the IMO–Norad TEST Biofouling Project, MTCC Africa organized the Mauritius National Technology Demonstration & Training Workshop in Port Louis, Mauritius (28–30 January 2026), together with national stakeholders led by the Shipping Division of the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy & Fisheries and the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA).

The workshop brought together key national stakeholders across government, port operations, maritime administration, academia, and the private sector to:

🔹 Strengthen understanding of the IMO Biofouling Guidelines and biofouling management practices
🔹 Build technical capacity on underwater inspection methodologies and inspection planning
🔹 Demonstrate the practical application of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) technologies for in-water hull inspection
🔹 Facilitate dialogue between regulators, port authorities, and technology providers on operational and regulatory considerations for in-water inspection and cleaning
🔹 Support national efforts toward strengthened inspection frameworks, science-based decision-making, and protection of marine ecosystems

The workshop combined classroom-based technical training, interactive group exercises, and a live in-water technology demonstration conducted at Port Louis Harbour using ROV-supported underwater inspection technologies. Through practical discussions and case-based learning, participants explored inspection methodologies, reporting considerations, environmental risk awareness, and port-level implementation challenges within the Mauritian context.

The event also provided an important platform for institutional collaboration and visibility, with participation from senior government officials, including the Hon. Minister and Junior Minister of the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy & Fisheries, alongside representatives from the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

This national demonstration reflects the continued commitment of the IMO–Norad TEST Biofouling Project, the IMO Project Coordination Unit (PCU), and MTCC Africa to strengthen national and regional capacity for effective biofouling management through practical technology demonstrations, technical cooperation, and knowledge exchange in line with the 2023 IMO Biofouling Guidelines.