On April 11, 2024, a symbolic handover ceremony took place at the diocesan seminary known as “La Domus” to deliver a donation for the “La Ferme de l’Espoir” project. The Sovereign Military Order of Malta donated €35,000, a contribution officially handed over by Ambassador Francesca Alessandra Azais, to Monsignor Alain Harel, Bishop of Port Victoria.

First Lady Linda Ramkalawan attended the event, along with several high profile figures:
• Monsignor Alain Harel, Bishop of Victoria and project’s beneficiary
• Patricia Francourt, Minister for Employment and Social Affairs
• Linda William Melanie, Permanent Secretary in the same ministry
• A delegation from the Ministry of Health, including Susan Fock Tave, Marie Josette Louis, and Mrs. Bibi
• Nathalie Didon, representing the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Family

Also present were numerous committee members involved in the “La Ferme de l’Espoir” project, along with representatives from the Diocese.

The ceremony included speeches and a symbolic presentation of the donation.

“La Ferme de l’Espoir” was launched in February 2024 and aims to provide agricultural training and support to vulnerable young people to encourage social reintegration and economic self-reliance.

The presence of both the First Lady and high-level government and church representatives underlines the importance of this initiative in fostering community development and youth empowerment.