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Pierre Dinan (1937-2024): Mauritius bids farewell to one of its most distinguished sons

Mauritius has lost a distinguished and devoted economist with the passing of Pierre Dinan on June 28, 2024, at the age of 87. Known for his sharp intellect, unwavering integrity, and tireless dedication to his country, Pierre Dinan’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the economic landscape of Mauritius.

His academic journey began at the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science, where he earned a B.Sc. in Economics in 1961. He further solidified his expertise by becoming a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales in 1964.

Pierre Dinan’s professional career began as an Investment Officer at the Development Bank of Mauritius (1964-67). His sharp analytical skills and economic insight soon led him to the Mauritius Chamber of Agriculture, where he served as Chief Economist and Accountant from 1968 to 1975. He then transitioned to the WEAL Group of Companies, holding the position of Chief Accountant from 1976 to 1984.

In 1985, Pierre Dinan joined De Chazal Du Mée as a Senior Partner, a role he held until 2004. Concurrently, from 1992 to 2004, he was a Director at Multiconsult Ltd. and served as Resident Director for several Global Business Companies. His financial acumen and leadership skills were further demonstrated during his tenure as Director of the Indian Ocean International Bank Ltd. from 2005 to 2007.

He was a member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Mauritius, reflecting his influence on national monetary policies. He also chaired audit committees for various local companies and institutions in the manufacturing and financial services sectors. His role as an economic consultant included missions for the World Bank in countries such as Zaire, Burundi, Kenya, and Zambia.

His commitment to economic development was evident in his involvement with the Africa Development Project Facility set up by the IFC and the ADB, where he participated in missions in Madagascar. He also contributed as a resource person at an ILO seminar in Madagascar and delivered lectures in Trinidad on Mauritius’s economic success in the 1980s.

Pierre Dinan’s dedication to the financial sector included participation in MOBAA missions, the precursor to the Financial Services Commission, promoting the offshore sector in various Asian and European capitals.

In recognition of his immense contributions, he was honored with the Commander of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (CSK) and later elevated to Grand Officer of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GOSK). He also chaired a government committee in the late 1990s to recommend regulatory frameworks for Collective Investment Funds in Mauritius and facilitated discussions with former Prime Ministers and Finance Ministers on economic reforms in 2006.

He was also the Chairman of The Mauritius LSE Society Trust Fund from 2001 to 2013, further underscoring his commitment to education and economic thought leadership.

As Mauritius bids farewell to one of its most distinguished sons, the nation reflects on the immense contributions of Pierre Dinan. His life’s work has left an enduring impact, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations of economists and public servants.

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