Mauritius: New Minister of Health announces re-introduction of methadone substitution therapy

The new minister of health and quality of life, the Hon Dr Anwar Hushnoo has announced that he will re-introduce methadone substitution therapy after an evaluation of the harm reduction programmes in Mauritius. Civil society has applauded this decision, while at the same time hoping that it will be on board as a partner and not shunned as it was by the previous minister.

Mouvement Patriotique held a debate on Cannabis, which drew a crowd of about 300 people. Dr Ramkoosalsing, consultant psychiatrist explained that he changed his view on cannabis, and is now in favour of the decriminalisation of cannabis to counter the rise of synthetic drugs in Mauritius. Many people urged the MPs present to raise this issue in parliament, to start a debate at the highest level on cannabis legislation.

Meanwhile Uruguay announced the sale of cannabis as from July 2018, and South Africa has legalised cannabis for personal consumption.

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