Bambous

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Mauritius).

The small town of Bambous has a population of around 15,000 people and is the capital of the Black River District in western Mauritius. The region is the country’s largest, but most sparsely populated. The country is developing significantly, and primary education and health care are now freely available to all Mauritians. But many still struggle to afford basic goods as living costs on the island are high. Unemployment and lack of infrastructure are further challenges for families in rural areas like Bambous.

Since 2003, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Bambous.

21%
Of young people around Bambous are unemployed

Rural poverty

In rural areas, many families rely on farming or fishing for their livelihoods, but the income from this tends to be low. At the same time, living costs on the island are very high as most commodities are imported. Hence, many still struggle to afford basic goods. Furthermore, unemployment rates have been on the rise in recent years, and women and young people are most severely affected. Youth employment in the area is as high as 21%. Single mothers, especially when they lack education, have a very hard time finding employment and they often struggle to provide for their children.

1 in 10
People do not have access to sanitation facilities

Infrastructure is lacking

The Black River District, where Bambous is located, is a very large region of Mauritius. Population density is low and many people live very remotely. As a result, infrastructure tends to be less readily available in rural areas like Bambous. For example, 10% of the rural population do not have access to improved sanitation facilities and running water. Hence, children are more likely to become ill. Furthermore, schools are often very far away. While primary schools are free, children and young people in rural Mauritius often have difficulties getting to school.

Your support makes a difference for children in Bambous

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
82
Families
Can stay together
40
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Learning while playing. Together with siblings, children grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Mauritius).

How your support helps in Bambous

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.