The SheTrades Mauritius Hub hosted a workshop on Labour Law on 15th May 2025, The objective of the workshop was to primarily enable women entrepreneurs to gain insights of the existing employment legislation and ensure compliance. The workshop was conducted by senior officials from the Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations, Mr. Surujdev Mohun Surat, (Director, National Employment Department) and Mr. Ramsamy Sunnassy (Senior Labour & Industrial Relations Officer)).
This event provided a valuable platform for entrepreneurs to deepen their understanding of employment legislation and compliance.
Opening the event, Mrs. Nirmala Jeetah, Director of Bio Industry & Project Development & ITC SheTrades highlighted the importance of legal compliance in fostering fair and sustainable workplaces.
She further highlighted the importance of understanding these laws with a view to ensure compliance, avoid potential disputes, and building a supportive, ethical business environment.
She also announced a major upcoming event—the Regional Workshop on the AfCFTA, in collaboration with UNECA, to be held on 3–4 September 2025, with participation from 15 African countries.
Ms. Raksha Sarjua, CEO of Conserverie Sarjua International Ltée also shared her experience in managing foreign labour and navigating administrative processes for work and residence permits.
She highlighted the operational challenges related to the employment of foreign labour, particularly with regards to residence permits and the administrative complexities that come with the obtention of the work permits.
Participants also received expert guidance on a range of essential employment topics. Mr. Sunassy provided a comprehensive overview of:
- Contracts of Employment
- Leave entitlements: annual, sick, maternity, paternity, vacation, and special leave
- End-of-year bonuses
- Notice periods and termination procedures
On his side, Mr. Surat gave a thorough legal overview of major legislative frameworks, namely:
- The National Employment Act 2017
- The Non-Citizens (Employment Restriction) Act 1973
- The Private Recruitment Agencies Act 2023
In addition, the session highlighted several strategic programs implemented by the National Employment Department, designed to enhance workforce capabilities and improve employment outcomes.
The workshop interactive format encouraged participants to raise specific concerns, creating a rich dialogue between entrepreneurs and policymakers. By demystifying legal obligations, the session empowered participants to run compliant, ethical, and future-ready businesses.
