Salt Swimmers

Mauritius is a small island with approximately 1.3 million people with many low-income villages dotted along the shoreline. Of the entire population, it is estimated that 70 – 85% cannot swim which  means that they have no knowledge of the rips, currents and tides to ensure their water safety. Added to that, their consciousness of protecting the ocean is usually lacking insight.

6 main areas were focused on:

1. water safety
2. ability to swim
3. confidence in the water
4. ability to help others in the water
5. awareness and sufficient knowledge of the ocean tides and currents
6. awareness to limit the impact on the ocean e.g., pollution, overfishing

Salt Swimmers, run by the NGO, Hope House, evolved from these needs. The needs were identified through beneficiaries attending other swimming based projects run by Hope House, such as Salt Surfers and Girls Make Waves. Salt Swimmers has the following facets to it:

1. partnering with Mauritius Sports Council, local communities and parents to provide opportunities for children to develop the ability to swim.
2. the program is built around breaking fear of water, particularly the ocean, and teaching character
3. development in a fun way through positive affirmation and mentoring.
4. focusing on physical training and developing a love for exercise. Much needed in our world of computers and screens.
5. working together in harmony and peace, developing a love for the people around us.
6. providing interest, continuity and a growth path for children. As they learn new skills they are able to progress into other programs run by Hope House, such as Salt Surfers.

This project ran a proof of concept phase funded by Hope House internally and has since been running successfully each Saturday morning at Tamarin Bay.  The project will continue to run year on year, expanding to different areas not yet impacted in Mauritius.

Swimming gear and equipment was purchased for children and coaches to ensure they have everything they need to learn about water safety and how to swim.  Water polo goals were also purchased to teach the children how to have fun in the water yet keep safe. Thank you to our funding partner who made this possible.