From youth voices to local communities: WFF Mauritius Youth Chapter strengthens youth engagement in agrifood systems and blue economy processes

As Mauritius works towards healthier, more sustainable and resilient agrifood systems, young people are increasingly contributing to national policy discussions and community-level initiatives. In 2026, the World Food Forum (WFF) Mauritius Youth Chapter engaged in two complementary processes: the development of Mauritius’ first Food Systems-Based Dietary Guidelines (FSBDGs) and a community consultation for the proposed Biodiversity and Ocean Fisheries for Integrated Stewardship and Habitat Sustainability in Mauritius (BIOFISH-SMART) initiative. Together, these initiatives highlighted how youth can contribute to agrifood systems transformation by bringing their perspectives into policy processes and connecting national initiatives with local communities.

The Chapter's engagement in 2026 extended to community-level processes related to fisheries, aquaculture and the blue economy.

On 30 June 2026, the Chapter supported the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)'s Country Office in Mauritius and the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries in mobilizing fisherfolk and local residents for a consultation on the proposed BIOFISH-SMART initiative.

The Chapter worked directly with communities to explain the purpose of the consultation and encourage participation, bringing participants from several neighbouring coastal communities into the discussion.

This grassroots mobilization provided a space for fisherfolk and residents to share their own knowledge, concerns and aspirations. It also demonstrated the potential of youth networks to bridge institutional processes and local realities.

The BIOFISH-SMART project is supported through the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund and implemented by FAO in collaboration with national fisheries authorities. It aims to strengthen the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources while supporting coastal communities and exploring community-based approaches to fisheries and aquaculture.

From 21 to 24 July 2026, six members of the Chapter participated in a four-day national workshop in Bagatelle on the development of the country's first FSBDGs. The workshop was convened by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, in collaboration with FAO and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Chapter's participation brought youth perspectives to discussions on how healthy diets are connected to wider agrifood systems issues, including food production, availability and affordability, sustainability, livelihoods and climate resilience. This systems-based approach is particularly relevant for the country as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), given its dependence on food imports, limited natural resources, vulnerability to climate change and changing dietary patterns.

Although the two initiatives addressed different dimensions of agrifood systems, they shared a common objective, creating meaningful pathways for young people and communities to contribute to decisions that affect their future.

Through the FSBDG process, the Chapter brought youth perspectives into a national policy discussion on healthy and sustainable diets. Through BIOFISH-SMART, the Chapter helped connect coastal communities with discussions on marine resources, livelihoods and community-based aquaculture.

These experiences reinforced the role of youth-led networks as bridges between policy, communities and action, while showcasing the Chapter's broader engagement in 2026, including its participation in the “Oceans, Food Security & SIDS” dialogue on the connections between ocean health, resilient agrifood systems and climate action.