During the week-end of November 26, the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) launched two books which have been funded under the GEF SGP The Native Plants & Animals of Mauritius and A guide to the plants in Mauritius. The launching ceremony was performed by the Minister of Education Honorable Dharam Gokhool and Mrs. Smedler, Resident Representative of the UNDP, on Ile aux Aigrettes. A copy of each book will be donated to each of the 416 primary and secondary schools in Mauritius and Rodrigues. MWF is putting the books on sale (Rs. 200 and Rs. 400) and the revenues from the sale will be used for further environmental conservation work.

In his speech, the Minister referred to the national debate on the school curriculum and made a strong commitment that these books will be introduced in the curriculum of all schools as very useful material on the need to protect the remaining 1% of native forest of Mauritius with its endangered fauna and flora. These books show some species which have only 1 or less than 5 individuals in the wild. I will be circulating a copy of the 2 books for all CO staff to have a look during the week.