History Vision Mission

The Marine Megafauna Conservation Organization (MMCO) was formally established in 2016 (initially conceptualized in 2012) as a Mauritian non-governmental organization dedicated to the protection of cetaceans, sharks, and sea turtles.

Its roots, however, go back to 2008, when MMCO’s founder underwater naturalist Hugues Vitry and Dr Michel Vély (MEGAPTERA, France) began collaborative field research on sperm whales off Mauritius. These early efforts evolved into what would later become MMCO’s flagship initiative—the Project MAUBYDICK Mission, a long-term scientific program dedicated to the monitoring and conservation of the resident sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) population.

Over time, MMCO grew into one of the leading marine conservation organizations in Mauritius, combining research, education, and policy advocacy to protect the island’s marine biodiversity.

HA healthy and resilient ocean where marine megafauna and people coexist in harmony – ensuring biodiversity, livelihoods, and natural heritage are protected for generations to come.

To preserve the biodiversity and ecological integrity of Mauritian marine ecosystems and promote their sustainable use through:

Scientific research on threatened and endangered marine species;

Education and awareness for schools, local communities, and the public;

Policy engagement and advocacy to improve marine conservation and management;

Promotion of responsible and sustainable marine ecotourism.

MMCO’s approach is integrated and collaborative, bridging science, community empowerment, and conservation policy to achieve lasting protection for marine life and the ecosystems they sustain.