Poudre d'Or Village was once the administrative, economic and commercial hub of the North .   ADD project 2009-2011 (EU/COI/ReCoMaP) brought back some of its former glory

The Poudre d'Or historical Monument site (Le Mémoire) was heavily eroded and desolate (2009), The sea was to wash down the Monument some 20 m away in 15 to 20 years. The place was insecure and dilapidated. The facilities were in a sad state. The benches were shredded. and the place deserted.

ADD project (2009 to 2011) turned around the place and the image of the Village - nationally and internationally.  Some 200m of heavily eroded coast was consolidated and rehabilitated. Heavy blocks of inclided flat rocks face the sea protecting the site and providing access to the sea. 400m of wall further consolidated  the site on the other two sides.  An additional 200m of wall was built around the Monument . It adds to the beauty of the place, provides further protection and is useful for visitors for resting and picnicking. A sandy beach of some 2000sq.m was created.

Mangrove plants were restored on 800 sq. m of the coast.  The whole area was landscaped and regenerated with grass, endemic and flowering plants. The old venerable trees with baring roots were protected and suitably provided with soil cover. A parking place was established. A kiosk built on the 'islet'.

The Monument was restored. The road leading to the site was repaired and tarred by the District Council. The inhabitants on the road embellished their houses and built hedges. The toilet facilities were upgraded with due consideration for handicapped visitors. The whole place is lighted. A map of the Village with other historical sites is prominently placed at the entrance of the Mémoire.

An active sensitisation campaign on the protection of coastal and marine resources was undertaken through workshops and other events. A special programme dedicated to school children was organised. Painting and essay competitions, a play on climate change by the children and visits to the Mémoire and to  science centres (Meteorological Service and Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre) provide a rich experience.

Multiple socio-cultural events sensitised the villagers and decision-makers and the partners. Commemorative ceremonies were organised with religious leaders of all faiths at the Mémoire and at sea near the shipwreck site. Some 140 people mostly slaves perished on the night of 17/18 August 1744 at La Passe St. Géran. 

Other activities included a Sports Day, Fairs for artisans and farmers, a regatta, Tree Planting Day, and an Exhibition.

A social, economic, cultural and environmental survey of some 800 households  serves as a reference and a benchmark for development purposes.