Cohesion Policy in southwestern Indian Ocean: Interreg Mozambique Channel Program 2021-2027

A Turning Point for Mayotte's Regional Integration

The second Monitoring Committee of the Interreg Mozambique Channel program convened in Mozambique on 28-29 October 2024 marked a significant step for Mayotte and regional cooperation.

Hosting the committee outside Mayotte for the first time was symbolic, signalling a shared ambition for growth and cooperation among neighbouring territories. The Chair, Mr Ben Issa Ousseni, President of the Mayotte Departmental Council, emphasized the importance of this engagement, saying, “This is a positive assessment we’re drawing after several days of meetings, and we hope that other territories, such as Tanzania or soon the Seychelles, will join us for future committees.”

The choice of Mozambique for the meeting underlined the cultural and historical bonds shared with Mayotte, as many of the island’s ancestors originated from Mozambique. This connection provides a foundation for developing mutual understanding and reinforcing alliances that will be crucial for advancing joint objectives.

Strengthening Regional Connectivity

Regional connectivity emerged as a central focus during the committee discussions, as Mayotte works to improve both air and sea services within the Mozambique Channel. A direct air link between Mayotte and Mozambique is under active consideration, with Mozambican airline LAM exploring this possibility.

Alongside air transport, a sea link was also discussed, which would enhance trade, especially in agricultural and fishing products. Strengthening sea links would boost Mayotte’s food security and autonomy by facilitating the import of fresh products from neighbouring countries, a priority for the island's development.

During the Committee 17 projects first call for projects were presented.

The subsequent Steering Committee will select some of the projects for EU cohesion policy cofinancing.

Interreg Programme Steps to Realize Regional Ambitions

The committee meeting underscored the growing importance of the Interreg Mozambique Channel program in fostering cross-border partnerships and has set an ambitious cooperation agenda for the coming months.

“Territorial cooperation cannot be done by remaining in its office. Something that the Mayotte authorities have perfectly understood when travelling to Mozambique for the monitoring committee of the Interreg programme. And this leads to results” said Pierre-Emmanuel Leclerc, team leader DG REGIO representing European Commission at the event.

November will see the inauguration of the Mayotte Technopole and the Indian Ocean Economic Forum. In December, a visit by the Mayotte delegation to Tanzania is planned, with the goal of expanding cooperation.