Launch of Tikoulou ‘La Légende de Bel Ombre’ (The Legend of Bel Ombre) 

A partnership between Reef Conservation, Rogers Group and Vizavi, Tikoulou ‘La Légende de Bel Ombre’ (The Legend of Bel Ombre), published in early January 2017, aims to educate children and adults about the importance of the ecosystems and biodiversity of our island. This project was initiated when the region of Bel Ombre was about to begin its second development phase, always in the same respect for its environment.

“Tikoulou is a Mauritian character through whom environmental themes and causes have been treated many times. From then on we knew that Tikoulou would be the perfect vehicle to convey our philosophy and vision,” explained François Rogers, President of Reef Conservation. In the Legend of Bel Ombre, Tikoulou and his friends, in company of their science teacher, set off in search of the ‘l’Ombre’ (shade), a freshwater fish, which according to legend would have given its name to this region of the island. Thus, during their adventure, Tikoulou and his friends will introduce seven ecosystems to readers, all representative of the biodiversity of the South of the island.

The initiative to produce this album of Tikoulou emerged as Reef Conservation and the Rogers Group wanted to develop new projects and a series of innovative activities in the respect of environment. One of these projects includes the conversion of the old mill of Bel Ombre into an educational center of discovery of the Fauna and flora of the region.

Reef Conservation has also been working for over two years with the hotels and the Compagnie Sucrière de Bel Ombre on a project for the redevelopment of the natural habitats of Bel Ombre in the lagoon, the coast and the rivers.

“Our sustainability lies in the fact that ecosystems are at the origin of vital elements such as oxygen production, water recycling, food production, among others,” said Audrey ‘Hotman of Villiers, CSR & Sustainability Manager.

The album Tikoulou ‘La Légende de Bel Ombre’ will be distributed free of charge to schoolchildren aged eight to 11 by the Bis Lamer at the end of the pedagogical sessions that will be given during the first year following the publication. The famous educational bus reaches an average of 2,800 primary pupils every year.

The Heritage Resorts Hotel Group will also distribute the album to its customers. The first edition of this volume has been printed in French and is intended for school children. However a second edition, in both French and English this time, will be marketed to the public.