Agrïa’s Zéro Kilomètre project promotes sustainable farming in Bel Ombre

Agrïa’s Zéro Kilomètre project promoting sustainable agriculture in Bel Ombre

Agrïa, a subsidiary of ER Group, is supporting sustainable farming and creating jobs for the local community through the “Zero Kilomètre” project. Located a few steps away from the Château de Bel Ombre, once sugarcane fields, these lands have been transformed into fertile gardens, cultivated by agri-entrepreneurs from Bel Ombre and the surrounding regions. 

From learning to growing

Launched in 2022 with the support of Heritage Villas Valriche, the “Zéro Kilomètre” project empowers eighteen local farmers through training and access to land. The name says it all: promoting short supply chains and embracing the farm-to-folk approach that benefits producers, consumers, and the environment. 

The agri-entrepreneurs received a training in agroecological farming practices and Sustainable Tropical Agriculture, supported by the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture, the Regional Training Centre (RTC) and FORMA’TERRA from Reunion Island. With a total of 114 hours of learning and practical experience on the allocated plots of land in Bel Ombre, the participants have acquired valuable skills in sustainable agriculture. Today, they are able to produce sustainable crops while minimising soil and transport pollution.

“This experience taught me how to grow healthy vegetables without pesticides and adopt farming practices that respect both the environment and my family’s health,” shared Priscilla Raboude, one of the participants.

Local harvest, local impact

“This initiative is part of a programme meant to inspire sustainable entrepreneurship, materialise our farm-to-folk ambitions, and develop a circular economy in the Bel Ombre region. All the harvests produced will be bought and used by the hotels of Heritage Resorts. It brings together land, people and purpose while enhancing the guest experience,” said Thierry Sauzier, Chief Executive Officer of Agrïa.

A project anchored in the ER Group’s S&ID vision

Zéro Kilomètre aligns with the ER Group’s Sustainability & Inclusive Development (S&ID) programme. It brings to life key pillars of the framework:

• Vibrant communities: by building local capabilities and creating jobs
• Biodiversity: by shifting toward regenerative agriculture
• Circular economy: by producing and consuming locally

Zéro Kilomètre is a tangible step toward a more inclusive, circular and regenerative future in Bel Ombre, proof that sustainable land use can support both people and place.