Flavours

September 22, 2022

The Ferney Agri-Hub: Cornerstone to the Tropical Agrihood

Written by Eshna Jheelan

Ferney Agri-Hub aims to redefine tomorrow’s agriculture by developing an integrated agricultural ecosystem. This innovative project stretches over 30 hectares of fertile land entirely dedicated to sustainable agricultural techniques.

The development of sustainable agriculture on a global scale

Improving the country’s food security through sustainable agriculture is the objective of the Ferney Agri-Hub.  In the south-east of the island, 30 hectares of land is dedicated to this project where agri-entrepreneurs committed to adhere to sustainable practices operate. The aim of this innovative approach is to develop agribusiness by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and new forms of agriculture. In this way, it would be possible to meet the demands of local consumers in terms of quality and supply.

The agri-hub offers an integrated and conducive agri-tech eco-system, where agri-entrepreneurs benefit from exclusive advantages, including access to financial institutions such as the Development Bank of Mauritius and to training and technical monitoring. Ferney Agri-Hub is thus defined by a partnership between farmers and institutions such as the Ministry of Agro-Industry and the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI) for the promotion of sustainable agriculture. New farmers can be trained by FAREI to better anticipate the requirements of sustainable production. It should be noted that Ferney Agri-Hub only welcomes projects that respect and enhance the environment. The production of medicinal plants for research is also part of the project, as well as the experimentation of new technology-oriented production techniques.

Montagne du Lion Farm Living: living closer to nature  

Montagne du Lion Farm Living [ Lien vers la page Montagne du Lion] is part of this continuum where the development of innovative and sustainable agriculture is at the heart of a residential project.

At the foot of the Lion Mountain, 68 plots are available for sale. Ranging from 1 to 3 acres, each plot will accommodate, a bioclimatic house surrounded by fields where a wide variety of vegetables and fruit will grow.

Inspired by Dutch architecture, each residence will be fit within its environment which above all meets the needs of each occupant with a bioclimatic design. Indeed, the outdoor spaces are an extension of the indoor spaces, conducive to relaxation and conviviality. The specifications reinforce the idea that each house is part of an integrated neighbourhood while allowing each family to create its own story, grow and prosper.

 

Designed from the ground up without compromise, this carbon neutral project will use eco-friendly materials. After years of planning the creation of this farm living development marks the start of a new era with a bioclimatic design that will be well-ventilated ventilation, insulated and energy sufficient thanks to photovoltaic panels. No stones were left unturned during the planning of this project with the use of high ceilings for better ventilation, use of insulating paint, a rainwater harvesting system, a wastewater treatment system, and the use of trees to delimit the properties. After a hectic day, the farm will be your haven and your gardens will be much more than an outdoor space. Life in the valley is quite simply pioneers a new way of life.

Creating an eco-friendly community

Montagne du Lion Farm Living, is part of the first agrihood [ link to Agrihood page] in Mauritius. The aim of this agrihood is to bring together actors committed to sustainable and eco-friendly development. For a simpler way of life, centred around nature and respectful of the environment. This objective will be achieved with a 100% bioclimatic construction, the use of 95% renewable energy (off-grid) including photovoltaic panels, a biodiversity conservation programme on 200 hectares and a reforestation exercise on 45 hectares.

CIEL Properties is aware that the fragmentation and isolation of natural areas due to industrial farming, deforestation and urbanisation is the main cause of the decline in biodiversity worldwide.  The aim of this residential development is to allow nature to regain its rights. The green corridors will serve as natural areas for wildlife to pass through. In this way, the impact of the implementation of this project on the environment is reduced. Animal species can move from one area to another without obstacles or dangers. The ecological corridors also reduce the risk of landslides and flooding and promote the production of fruit trees.

Promoting nature experiences

La Vallée de Ferney is an exceptional site that offers a unique environment between the mountains of the Bamboo Range, the endemic forests and the largest lagoon in Mauritius. The project has a third pillar which promotes a new lifestyle centred around fostering a community around agriculture and nature.

La Vallée de Ferney promotes authentic experiences with a positive impact on the environment. Awareness and responsibility are at the heart of each player’s approach. Indeed, La Vallée de Ferney is a visionary of tourism with a positive impact on economic, social, environmental, and individual levels. Existing projects such as Ferney Nature Lodge, Ferney Falaise Rouge Restaurant will be optimised to meet the requirements of eco-friendliness. Other projects will be implemented such as the Bubble Lodge offering visitors a unique nature experience accompanied by several other outdoor activities such as yoga, spa, or mangrove exploration.

In short, in all areas, including agriculture, it is time for innovation. And when great minds meet around a project as innovative as La Vallée de Ferney, the result can exceed our wildest expectations.