In Mauritius, civil society organizations have long been in existence even before the nation’s independence. Hence, this tradition has helped to foster the growth of numerous groups and types of nonprofits. The various organizations are known to work in the fields of education, environmental protection, and sustainable development among others.
In this article, we will consider the various types of nonprofits in Mauritius and their functions.
- To improve over time, nonprofits must initiate methods to measure their impact
- The various types of nonprofits are required in building thriving communities that are equal.
What are the types of nonprofits in Mauritius?
Mauritius recognizes four classes of nonprofits. We will outline each of these entities and their roles.
1. Associations
These types of nonprofits are governed by the Registration of Associations Act which outlines the requirement for registration. In Mauritius, associations constitute a crucial component of its social fabric.
However, a political party is not considered an association. This is because of its member structure as well as its shared goal.
In general, the Registration of Associations Act’s pertinent sections must be accompanied by an association’s regulations. This must include provisions for the fortes listed in its Schedule. Also, a registered association may bring and defend legal actions in its corporate name.
2. Charitable Foundations
The Foundations Act of 2012 mandates that charitable foundations be registered. Equally, the Registrar of Companies serves as the Registrar of Foundations for these types of nonprofits.
When a foundation has charity as its sole goal or objective, it is deemed to be charitable. Worthy charitable deeds may include poverty relief, education advancement, religious advancement, environmental protection, and human rights advocacy, among others.
However, without being registered and receiving a certificate of registration from the Registrar following section 24, a foundation is not considered to have legal personality.
3. Charitable Trusts
The Trusts Act of 2001 is a brand-new piece of legislation. Basically, this act regulates trusts established by either resident settlors or non-resident settlors.
Two other purposes that charitable trusts may have includes advancing human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as protecting the environment.
At least one qualified trustee is required for each trust. However, a maximum of four trustees may be appointed. Basically, a management business or a Mauritius resident who has the proper authorization to offer trusteeship services qualifies as a suitable trustee.
The Trust Act imposes extra fiduciary duties on the trustee. This includes the prohibition of using trust assets for personal gain or other purposes unrelated to the trust.
4. Companies Limited by Guarantee
The Companies Act of 2001, which is overseen by the Registrar of Companies, is used to register these types of nonprofits. “Company limited by guarantee” refers to a business established on the premise that the members’ liability is constrained by the company’s bylaws. Hence, each member agrees on the amount to contribute to the assets of the business in the event of its dissolution.
Thereupon, a company limited by guarantee is required to file statutory documents following the Companies Act 2001. Likewise, these nonprofits are required to carry out their objectives as described in their constitution.
How many nonprofits are in Mauritius?
The GlobalGiving Atlas has a record of over 8,944 nonprofits in Mauritius. The various types of nonprofits are known to serve in the fields of education, environmental protection, sustainable development, gender equality, and health.
The recognized governing organization for Mauritian NGOs is the Mauritius Council of Social Service (MACOSS). MACOSS has over 204 organizations as members. Additionally, the organization promotes collaboration between NGOs, governmental agencies, and the international community. The European Union, embassies in Mauritius, and the Canada Fund all contribute to the funding of MACOSS.
However, the sector continues to witness a decline in foreign assistance. In effect, this has negatively impacted nonprofit activities. Presently, NGOs are financially reliant on both the public sector (through ministries and the NGO Trust Fund) and the business sector (via the CSR scheme).
Conclusion
To build thriving communities that are more equal, the various types of nonprofits are essential. Also, nonprofits must work together to safeguard both their history and their crucial position in the future of the country. This goes a long way in helping NGOs accomplish much more.
Likewise, to improve over time, nonprofits must initiate methods to measure their impact.
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