Speeches

Remarks by Chargé d'Affaires, a.i., Stephen Schwartz, at the
Ambassador’s Self Help Signing Ceremony

Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel
Tuesday, August 23, 2005

Representatives of the recipient organizations
Members of the press and media
Honored Guests

Thank you for joining me today for the signing of the Ambassador’s Self Help Agreements.  This year, we have selected fifteen non-governmental organizations to receive grants totaling one point three million rupees. 

We are here to recognize the recipients of this year’s grants.  You were chosen out of a large number of applicants for your commitment to the community and your initiative to empower yourselves and others.  On behalf of the United States Government, I congratulate you.

In 1968, the U.S. government established the Ambassadors’ Self Help Program in Mauritius.  Its primary focus is to improve basic economic, social, and environmental conditions by supporting grass-roots initiatives.  Self Help activities are community initiated programs which are supported and sustained by the organization’s own efforts and contributions.   The Self-Help grant is designed to be a financial catalyst to launch new programs or expand existing ones.

To date, the Embassy’s Self-Help program has contributed over 73 million rupees to over 900 projects designed and implemented by non-governmental organizations in Mauritius.  These projects have provided everything from sewing machines and basic printing materials to computers and specialized medical equipment.  Those benefiting from these projects include disadvantaged children, the physically and mentally challenged, impoverished women, and other underprivileged or underserved populations.

This year I am excited by the continued diversity of projects that have been selected.  I am confident that these projects will have a direct impact on the lives of many Mauritian citizens.  Throughout the year, the Embassy will continue working with you, the grant recipients, to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.

Mauritius has established a reputation for the effective utilization of resources for development purposes.  I am therefore making a special appeal to you to uphold this reputation by using the funds judiciously and in a timely manner.

Again, I would like to commend you for your initiative and your efforts to improve the quality of life in Mauritius.  We look forward to your continued hard work.  Congratulations!

Thank you.