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East Africa
Mauritius
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·1 hour ago
LALIT urges Mauritian government to reconsider UK negotiations on Chagos Archipelago
LALIT is calling on the Mauritian government, specifically Prime Minister Ramgoolam and Attorney General Glover, to be wary of being deceived by the United Kingdom regarding the Chagos Archipelago. The UK's military occupation of Chagos and Diego Garcia has been declared unlawful, and LALIT argues that Mauritius should not continue bilateral negotiations with an occupying power. LALIT suggests that the Mauritian government's current approach, which involves merely requesting a roadmap for the UK's ratification of the Chagos Archipelago Agreement, is insufficient. They highlight a veiled threat from Mauritius that its stance could be reviewed by September 2026, possibly referring to the UN General Assembly meeting, but LALIT believes this is too late given the UK's scheduling of a meeting after this date. LALIT urges the government to act before the August 9 deadline for submitting items to the UN General Assembly. LALIT proposes several actions: suspending Mauritius's signature to the bilateral agreement due to the UK's non-signature, lack of parliamentary vote, and the ineffectiveness of bilateral agreements in achieving decolonization; preparing a supplementary International Court of Justice case for guidance; preparing cases in international courts for reparations for 57 years of illegal occupation and for the forcibly removed Chagossians; organizing a formal government and opposition visit to the Chagos islands with Chagossian representatives and journalists; amending the
3 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·3 hours ago
Maydon Fashion Ltd, a Hong Kong-origin textile company, placed under receivership in Mauritius
Maydon Fashion Ltd, a textile company founded in 1987 and based in Coromandel, Mauritius, has been placed under receivership. The company, which had been operating for nearly forty years and employed local workers in the garment sector, was one of the last Hong Kong-origin textile firms still established in Mauritius. This development follows a judicial setback for Maydon Fashion Ltd some years ago, when Judges Asraf Caunhye and Gérard Angoh rejected its appeal in a dismissal case. The company had challenged an Industrial Court decision that found two former employees were unfairly dismissed. The Supreme Court upheld the initial judgment, compelling Maydon Fashion Ltd to pay the two ex-employees punitive damages and compensation for their notice period. The receivership of Maydon Fashion Ltd occurs amidst a challenging period for the Mauritian textile sector, which has faced increased international competition, rising production costs, and persistent economic difficulties for several years.
1 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·8 hours ago
Social Security Minister Ashok Subron on major evolution in domestic violence treatment
Social Security Minister Ashok Subron stated that the Domestic Abuse Bill is fundamental to society and communal living, aiming to protect the family unit. He questioned how society can combat domestic violence when it originated from systems of violence and abuse, citing slavery, indentured labor, colonialism, and capitalism. Subron described the bill as not ordinary, but part of a historical and collective process to heal psychological and social wounds from past and current violence. He honored women who fought for this cause, including Anna de Bengale, activists, factory workers, and students. The Minister noted that the bill, which was to be adopted, reflects the contributions of many individuals, organizations, and movements. He highlighted that the Domestic Abuse Bill marks a significant evolution in how Mauritius legally addresses domestic violence. The 1997 legislative framework focused on immediate protection against physical violence and protection orders. The new legislation adopts a modern, survivor-centered approach, moving beyond reactive responses to physical assaults to include non-physical and structural forms of abuse. Subron emphasized that the most significant change is in the terminology, shifting from "domestic violence," which prioritized physical acts, to "domestic abuse," recognizing that destructive forms of domination may leave no physical trace. The bill also expands the understanding of domestic violence beyond isolated incidents to explicitly in
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·12 hours ago
Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control system
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC has identified significant vulnerabilities in Mauritius' system for controlling the import of dangerous drugs, warning that these weaknesses could be exploited by criminal networks. The FCC's report, a Financial Crimes Prevention Review, was initiated following allegations of questionable practices surrounding the import and monitoring of strictly controlled medications. The investigation specifically focused on pregabalin, marketed as Pregatas, Nervigen P, and Nervigen NP, which are classified as dangerous drugs due to their potential for abuse. The FCC concluded that the control system is undermined by poor governance, insufficient oversight, and an over-reliance on manual procedures within the Ministry of Health's pharmacology department. Additional issues include inadequate management of import quotas, ineffective monitoring mechanisms, poor traceability, and documentation management that fails to meet transparency and security standards. These dysfunctions, according to the Commission, create opportunities for quota manipulation, irregular authorizations, collusion among stakeholders, document falsification, corruption, bribery, and the diversion of dangerous drugs into illicit channels. The report also highlights that these failures could facilitate the financing of drug trafficking activities. The absence of secure IT systems further compromises authorities' ability to effectively track sensitive products, limiting control, audit, an
2 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·2 days ago
Vice President Hungley inaugurates MauZen, Mauritius' first youth-focused sexual, reproductive, and mental health space
Vice President Robert Hungley inaugurated MauZen, Mauritius' first free, confidential, and walk-in sexual, reproductive, and mental health space dedicated to young people. MauZen also offers GenZee, a 24/7 chatbot providing reliable sexual health information. Hungley emphasized that challenges faced by Mauritian youth, such as early pregnancies, addictions, online exploitation, mental health difficulties, and sexually transmitted infections, are not individual failures but symptoms of structural inequalities. He stated that young people are citizens with rights, aspirations, and immense potential, not statistics or problems to manage. The Vice President highlighted the importance of human connection over punishment in addiction prevention, noting that prevention begins with trust. He also called upon boys and young men to be essential partners in equality, promoting masculinities based on respect, empathy, and responsibility, and stressing that consent is non-negotiable. Regarding the GenZee chatbot, Hungley acknowledged that technology cannot replace human relationships but can open doors previously closed by shame and fear, empowering young people with reliable information. He concluded by stating that the Republic owes its youth a society where no child grows up in shame, no adolescent faces a crisis alone, and no young person is deprived of information or support due to their location or situation. MauZen is an initiative of the MFPWA, funded by the European Union, under
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·3 days ago
Alvin Ramgobeen on understanding human behavior for global challenges, from climate to AI
Alvin Ramgobeen, Director General of Alliance pour le GIECo and an international data expert, emphasizes that environmental and societal challenges require a deeper understanding of human behavior. His journey, spanning from Mauritius to France, involved studying fundamental physics and later transitioning into the corporate world, where he held numerous roles in digital services. He observed that the real complexity in business, regardless of company size, is human-centric, not purely technological. Ramgobeen highlights that while scientists understand climate change mechanisms, humanity struggles to act. This led him to join GIECo, an organization gathering over 1,000 scientists across 70 disciplines to systematically understand human behavior, its inhibitors, and motivators. The goal is to provide actionable insights for individuals, organizations, nations, and civilizations. He believes that the climate crisis and global inaction can only be understood through the complex interactions of human mechanisms. Ramgobeen stresses that sustainable change cannot be uniformly imposed; each individual must find their path with collective support. He also views artificial intelligence as an extension of human intelligence, but cautions that its impact depends on the intentions of its developers and users, emphasizing the need for human discernment. He suggests that Mauritius, with its unique cultural coexistence, could serve as a laboratory for future global cooperation, embodying t
9 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·3 days ago
MCB increases sustainable finance commitment to Rs 25 billion
MCB has significantly increased its dedicated sustainable finance envelope from Rs 10 billion to Rs 25 billion, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a more resilient, inclusive, and low-carbon economy. This expansion is part of the Group's ESG strategy, aiming to support clients in projects with positive environmental and social impacts. MCB offers a range of sustainable finance solutions, including Green Loans for individuals, the Lokal is Beautiful Scheme for Small and Medium Enterprises, Sustainable Loans, Green Leases, Sustainability-Linked Loans, advice on sustainable bond issuance, and Sustainable Trade Finance Solutions. To ensure consistency and transparency, MCB established a Sustainable Finance Framework in 2024, which outlines eligibility criteria, evaluation processes, and monitoring mechanisms for its sustainable financing activities. Since the launch of this financing line in 2023, nearly Rs 10 billion has been disbursed, contributing to tangible benefits such as avoiding approximately 34,000 tons of CO2 emissions and installing 21.1 MW of renewable energy capacity. Projects supported span green buildings, renewable energy, energy efficiency, water and wastewater management, circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and social initiatives like healthcare access and cultural heritage preservation. Aldo Sydonie, Head of Mauritian and Regional Corporates, MCB, stated that sustainable finance is a necessity, reflecting growing demand from busine
4 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 days ago
Mauritius to experience below-normal rainfall through September due to strengthening El Niño
Mauritius is forecast to experience below-normal rainfall from July to September 2026, according to the Mauritius Meteorological Services. This projection is attributed to the progressive strengthening of the El Niño phenomenon in the tropical Pacific Ocean. The latest report from the Climate Prediction Centre of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA, dated June 22, 2026, indicates that El Niño conditions are intensifying. Sea surface temperature anomalies in the Niño 3.4 region have consistently risen, from +0.48 °C between March and May 2026 to +0.94 °C in May, with the latest weekly Niño 3.4 index reaching +1.7 °C. These indicators confirm a transition to a moderate-strength El Niño episode. Consequently, the Meteorological Services anticipate rainfall totals below seasonal averages for the next three months: 90 mm in July approximately 70% of the long-term average, 86 mm in August 80% of the long-term average, and 70 mm in September 80% of the long-term average. The total accumulated rainfall for July to September is expected to be 246 mm, which is only 77% of the long-term average for this period. This trend of deficient rainfall could impact water resources and climate-dependent activities if it continues in the coming months.
1 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 days ago
Domestic Abuse Bill debates: Karen Foo Kune-Bacha states perpetrators of violence must leave the home
During debates on the Domestic Abuse Bill, Minister Delegate for Sports Karen Foo Kune-Bacha stated that the bill represents a paradigm shift in combating domestic violence. She emphasized that the discussions are about lives, particularly those of women, children, and families affected by these tragedies. Highlighting that 90% of victims are women, she noted that while no law can prevent all femicides, this reform will allow for earlier intervention, more effective protection, and a significant reduction in the risk of violence escalating. Foo Kune-Bacha welcomed the expanded definition of domestic violence to include psychological, economic, digital, and coercive forms, and stressed the recognition of children as full victims, proposing systematic specialized psychological support for minors exposed to such violence. A key advancement of the bill, according to her, is the introduction of the Exclusion Order, which mandates that the perpetrator, not the victim, must leave the family home. The court can also require the aggressor to provide alternative housing if exclusion from the home is not possible. The Minister Delegate also praised strengthened reporting mechanisms, protection for whistleblowers, accelerated procedures, and improved monitoring of perpetrators. She concluded by stressing the need for a change in mentality, stating that domestic violence stems from stereotypes and calling for collective action, asserting that victims are owed actions, not just words.
1 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 days ago
Mauritius aims to become a global hub for high-tech medical manufacturing with Ava Technopole
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam advocated for a new generation of technology-driven industries at the official inauguration of Ava Technopole, stating that Mauritius's economic future lies in a "precision economy" capable of competing in demanding international markets. Developed by the AVA group and its subsidiary Natech Medical, this facility specializes in advanced medical device manufacturing and represents a significant step in diversifying Mauritian industry. Ramgoolam emphasized that Mauritius, despite being a small island state, can expand its industrial frontiers and overcome economic challenges through resilience and the intelligence of its youth. Ava Technopole, covering 54,000 square meters, represents a 42 million euro investment and aims to become a major center for medical production and innovation. The AVA group, through Natech Medical, has over 25 years of experience in Mauritius, producing approximately one million catheter systems annually for markets including the United States, Europe, and India. Ramgoolam highlighted the critical importance of precision and quality in the medical industry, stating that Mauritius's competitive advantage lies in its human capital, institutional stability, and rigorous production capabilities, rather than its size or natural resources. He also stressed the project's human dimension, aiming to create highly skilled jobs for young Mauritians to build their futures locally, aligning with the 2026-27 budget's focus on future sec
6 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 days ago
CIDP emphasizes quality in clinical studies through participant safety, rigorous preparation, and data integrity
The International Center for Pharmaceutical Development CIDP highlights key pillars for clinical research quality: participant safety, rigorous study preparation, and data integrity. Medical advancements, while driven by scientific innovation, require a strict methodological and regulatory framework to ensure both volunteer well-being and reliable results. At CIDP, each clinical study is meticulously planned before participant recruitment, involving a multidisciplinary team to meet scientific, operational, clinical, and regulatory requirements. This preparatory phase includes protocol analysis, risk assessment, infrastructure preparation, and specific team training. Anissah Appadu, Head of Projects/Regulatory Affairs Manager, states that participant protection and data integrity are absolute priorities, with rigorous preparation anticipating challenges, limiting risks, and ensuring volunteer safety and scientific excellence. CIDP operates in strict compliance with Mauritian regulations and under the supervision of independent ethics committees, guaranteeing adherence to high ethical and scientific standards. A dedicated medical team provides continuous participant monitoring, promptly addressing, documenting, and resolving any reactions during the study, ensuring constant medical support and tailored follow-up.
1 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 days ago
FCC alleges documentary evidence against Sattar Hajee Abdoula in Air Mauritius money laundering case
The Financial Crimes Commission FCC, represented by Acting Chief Investigator Atish Bholah, stated in Port Louis District Court that direct documentary evidence exists against Sattar Hajee Abdoula, CEO of Grant Thornton Advisory Services Ltd. Abdoula faces a provisional money laundering charge related to a Rs 3.6 million payment from Air Mauritius to his firm in 2020. The FCC's statement was made during debates on Abdoula's motion to dismiss the provisional charge. During cross-examination by Abdoula's lawyer, Me Raouf Gulbul, Bholah admitted that Abdoula was not a signatory to the contract between Air Mauritius and Grant Thornton Advisory Services Ltd. However, Bholah maintained that the contract lacked approval from the Air Mauritius board and did not follow required procedures, asserting that evidence against Abdoula persists. He also confirmed that Air Mauritius has not demanded the return of the sum from Abdoula. The case will resume on Monday for legal arguments. The Rs 3.6 million payment was made in March 2020 for advisory services that were allegedly never provided to the national airline, one month before Abdoula's appointment as an Air Mauritius director. Abdoula, arrested by the FCC on November 19, 2025, denies any wrongdoing, stating there was a civil contract and his firm began work, but the COVID-19 lockdown prevented its completion.
2 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·5 days ago
Mauritius faces intensifying climate change threats, launches new program to boost resilience
Mauritius is increasingly experiencing the effects of climate change, including more intense cyclones, flash floods, accelerated coastal erosion, strong swells, and landslides. These growing risks threaten its inhabitants, infrastructure, and economy, potentially leading to more frequent population displacements in the medium and long term. In response, the International Organization for Migration IOM, in collaboration with the government and the European Union EU, launched the Regional Responses to Climate-Related Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa RE2CLID program. This initiative, presented in Port Louis, aims to help Mauritius and Rodrigues better anticipate disasters, improve response capabilities, and protect populations at risk of displacement. Mauritius, located in one of the world's most active cyclone basins, is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events, a situation exacerbated by the concentration of its population and strategic infrastructure in coastal areas. Premanand Budhoo, Commander of the Special Mobile Force and head of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre, stated that the program supports national efforts to strengthen disaster risk reduction systems and integrate climate mobility considerations into development planning. RE2CLID plans to reinforce alert systems, enhance data on climate risks and population displacement, develop emergency protocols for affected individuals, and raise awareness among communities, especially the
3 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·6 days ago
Dubai justice dismisses accusations against Mauritian businessman Shaan Kundomal
The case against Shaan Kundomal in the United Arab Emirates has concluded in his favor. According to a statement from Dentons Mauritius LLP, the law firm representing Shaan Kundomal and Aurevya Wealth Ltd, Dubai's judicial authorities have determined that no offense was committed and there is no evidence to justify criminal proceedings. The lawyers stated that their client had been subject to "false and malicious" allegations. Shaan Kundomal consistently denied these accusations and cooperated fully with the authorities, providing detailed explanations and written observations through his legal counsel. After reviewing the case, the Dubai Public Prosecutions Office found no case to answer, leading to the unconditional release of Shaan Kundomal. He faces no charges, ongoing investigations, or restrictions in the UAE, where he resides, and is free to travel without limitation. Shaan Kundomal had retained the services of Fatema Saif Almheiri Advocates in Dubai to handle his case.
3 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·6 days ago
Association of Mauritian Manufacturers launches internationalization program for local businesses
The Association of Mauritian Manufacturers AMM has launched the operational support phase for the first cohort of its En Route Vers l'International ERVI program. This strategic support program, designed to help Mauritian companies internationalize into regional and international markets, is a partnership with MCB Group, EY-Parthenon, and IBL Ltd, with government support. The launch session, held at EY Parthenon's Innovation Lab in Ebène, introduced selected companies to the teams, objectives, methodology, and 18-month roadmap. Beyond export, ERVI aims to enhance internal capabilities and structure growth regionally. Participating companies include Oxenham, T&T International Foods Ltd, PIM, Précigraph, Innodis, Meaders Feed, Inicia, Resiglas, Grays Inc. Ltd, and Fast Foods Ltd. Samuel Maujean, Deputy Chief Operations Officer of the AMM, stated that after over a year of preparation, the initiative will concretely support about ten Mauritian companies in their international development over two phases. The first phase involves in-depth analysis and personalized roadmaps, while the second focuses on implementing these strategies. Julien Warlouzé, Partner at EY Parthenon, emphasized working closely with companies to build foundations for internationalization, including strategic reflection and practical tools. The program also aims to strengthen internal capacities, organizational agility, and adaptability to complex international environments. Vincent d'Arifat, CEO of Précigraph,
8 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·6 days ago
WHO warns Europe unprepared for extreme heatwaves as new heat surge approaches
Hans Kluge, World Health Organization WHO Regional Director for Europe, stated on Tuesday that Europe is ill-prepared for extreme heatwaves. Less than half of the countries in the European Region have national heat-health action plans, which the WHO deems essential. These plans are crucial for addressing health risks as temperatures rise. A new heatwave is forming over the Atlantic, with Portugal and southern Spain expected to reach 43 °C this week. France and the Benelux countries are also anticipating a new heat peak, and parts of Central Asia are experiencing 40 °C temperatures. Kluge emphasized the necessity for all countries to implement such plans, which should include early weather warnings, public awareness campaigns for vulnerable groups, and coordination among health, occupational health, social protection, housing, and urban planning authorities.
1 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·6 Jul 2026
Air Mauritius faces new legal and disciplinary actions following Kroll report findings
Air Mauritius is initiating new legal and disciplinary actions based on the Kroll report, which scrutinizes decisions made regarding the sale, lease, and acquisition of aircraft. The report, examined by the Air Mauritius board of directors on June 25 and 29, 2026, has led to the involvement of the Financial Crimes Commission and the police, consideration of civil remedies, and the launch of disciplinary proceedings. Seven senior Air Mauritius executives have been suspended as a precautionary measure during an internal investigation. These individuals held key positions in finance, legal, planning, and procurement, with some having served on the Committee of Purchase involved in aircraft acquisition and leasing decisions. The Kroll mandate focused on three main areas: the sale of five aircraft during the voluntary administration period of 2020-2021, the lease of two A330-200s in 2022, and the order for an additional A350-900 in 2023. Between December 2014 and December 2024, Air Mauritius divested four aircraft, resulting in an estimated net loss of approximately Rs 1.2 billion. During the same period, eleven aircraft were added to the fleet through direct purchase, finance leases, and operating leases. The total costs for these acquisitions and leases were not disclosed due to confidentiality clauses. The Prime Minister informed Parliament that eleven aircraft were grounded a hundred times between 2014 and 2024 due to technical issues, unavailability of spare parts, lack of re
4 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·5 Jul 2026
Agaléens and Indians coexist respectfully on Agaléga despite opaque bilateral agreement
Residents of Agaléga acknowledge and appreciate the kindness and generosity of Indian personnel working on the North Island, despite concerns about the opacity of a bilateral agreement between Mauritius and India regarding their island. Several Indian workers are set to depart Agaléga this week, leaving positive impressions on the local inhabitants. Development projects are ongoing, with two significant construction sites in preparation: a control tower and fuel storage facilities. Agaléens describe the Indian staff as kind, helpful, and respectful. For eight years, the local community and temporary Indian residents have maintained cordial relations. Agaléens understood that the Indians came to Agaléga for work and were not involved in the government-to-government agreement or geopolitical matters. The Agaléens have been welcoming, and the Indians have consistently offered assistance when needed. Mutual respect has grown over the years, even concerning security regulations. Residents have respected passage restrictions in strategic areas, such as near the airstrip and jetty, despite having previously moved freely across the islands. Indians reside in a designated area on the North Island, with social interactions typically limited to island festivities where Indian hierarchical officials are invited and share traditional sweets. When Indians celebrate, they often invite Agaléen musicians. Indian expertise has benefited Agaléens, improving access roads and assisting with gener
3 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·5 Jul 2026
Mauritius public hospital performs first wireless pacemaker implantation
Dr. A.G. Jeetoo Hospital in Mauritius successfully performed the country's first wireless pacemaker implantation in a public facility. The procedure was led by interventional cardiologist Dr. Cesar Khazen from Austria, collaborating with the local cardiology team. This advanced technology was previously unavailable in Mauritius, requiring patients to travel abroad for treatment. The 87-year-old patient had a complex medical history, having had two traditional pacemakers removed due to infections, making the wireless pacemaker the only viable option. This device, the size of an AAA battery, is implanted directly into the heart without electrical leads or a surgical pocket, significantly reducing infection risks and improving patient comfort. This initiative aligns with the government's Visiting Doctors Scheme, announced by the Prime Minister, which aims to bring foreign specialists to Mauritius to perform procedures previously outsourced. The dual objective is to reduce costs associated with medical evacuations and to facilitate knowledge transfer to local medical teams. Despite technical challenges, including the unavailability of the cath lab's fixed angiography system, the team adapted by using a mobile C-arm imaging device. Health Minister Anil Bachoo visited the hospital after the intervention, commending the involved teams and Dr. Khazen. He emphasized that bringing international expertise to Mauritius reduces costs, alleviates patient travel burdens, and enables local t
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 Jul 2026
Constitutional Review Commission officially established with Vinod Boolell as chairperson
A Constitutional Review Commission has been officially established, with its members appointed by the President of the Republic. Vinod Boolell will chair the commission, assisted by Mrs. Ah Foon Chui Yew Cheong, GOSK, as vice-chairperson. The commissioners include Mrs. Yanilla Moonshiram, SC, Mr. Satyajit Boolell, SC, Dr. Amar Roopanand Mahadew, Dr. Jonathan Ravat, OSK, Dr. Milan J.N. Meetarbhan, GOSK, Dr. Amenah Jahangeer Chojoo, Mr. Joel Edouard, Mrs. Anne-Sophie Julienne, and Mrs. Danisha Sornum. This commission represents the initial institutional phase of the government's announced constitutional review project. The official statement did not specify the terms of reference for its work, nor the timeline or methods for potential consultations. The commission's mission is to examine the constitutional text and formulate recommendations that could serve as a basis for potential reforms. The scope of these reforms will depend on the accepted proposals and subsequent political decisions.
1 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 Jul 2026
SME Mauritius celebrates International MSME Day 2026, highlighting economic growth and entrepreneurial resilience
SME Mauritius celebrated International Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises MSME Day 2026 to emphasize the critical role MSMEs play in fostering economic growth, innovation, job creation, and social development. This year's event honored the resilience, innovative spirit, and determination of entrepreneurs who continuously adapt to evolving markets to seize new opportunities. The MSME sector remains a fundamental pillar of the national economy, promoting entrepreneurship, creating jobs, and contributing to social mobility. SME Mauritius reaffirmed its commitment to continuously strengthening MSME competitiveness through business advisory services, various aid programs, capacity-building initiatives, and support for digital transformation. The institution encourages current and future entrepreneurs to focus on innovation, sustainable development, and digital technologies as essential drivers of growth and competitiveness. As part of International MSME Day, SME Mauritius organized several activities in Mauritius and Rodrigues. These included a certificate ceremony at Petit-Verger prison for 35 participants who completed a comprehensive program on "Entrepreneurship for Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Inclusion," aimed at equipping detainees with business creation skills. An workshop on digital marketing and digital tool optimization gathered 26 participants, covering social media marketing, content creation, online brand development, customer engagement strategies, and
1 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 Jul 2026
Afric Vibes Festival launches second edition to promote African music and culture in Mauritius
The second edition of the Afric Vibes Festival is underway, aiming to promote African music and culture in Mauritius. The festival, initiated by Ernest Lyatto artist name Leone, was founded in 2025 due to a perceived lack of African cultural heritage on the island, despite the presence of sega music and percussion instruments. Lyatto emphasizes the rich, indescribable essence of African sound and the diversity of its instruments beyond percussion. The festival serves as a platform to foster new artistic expressions, featuring artists from various African countries who reside in Mauritius, including Tanzania, South Africa, and Nigeria. Lyatto, who has lived in Mauritius for two years, teaches music at the François Mitterrand National Conservatory of Music and studies general administration at the University of Technology, Mauritius. This year's edition expands beyond music to include dance, fashion, hairstyling, and visual arts. The festival began with a DJ night at the Backstage Lounge Bar of Hennessy Park Hotel, following Africa Day, offering a space for community engagement and support for emerging and established artists. The program includes fashion shows, diverse music styles like Afrobeats and Amapiano, dance, and body and visual art, embodying an "Afro-creative spirit with raw energy." The second event, the Mama Africa Edition, will take place on July 4 at the Institut français de Maurice IFM in Rose-Hill. This all-day celebration from noon to 9 PM promises an immersiv
3 min read
Must Read🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 Jul 2026
Air Mauritius suspends seven senior executives following Kroll report findings
Air Mauritius has suspended seven senior executives, including the Chief Commercial Officer, Laurent Recoura, following the submission of the Kroll report to Parliament. The suspensions are described as precautionary measures within an internal investigation, aiming to prevent interference with evidence. The affected executives held strategic positions in the Finance, Legal, Planning, and Procurement departments and were members of the Committee of Purchase, which made decisions on aircraft acquisitions and leases. These actions stem from board meetings on June 25 and 29, which reviewed the Kroll Middle East Consultancy Ltd. report. The board decided to refer the matter to the Financial Crimes Commission FCC and the police, initiate civil proceedings, and launch disciplinary actions against potentially involved individuals. The Kroll report, commissioned by the board, scrutinized Air Mauritius's fleet management from 2014 to 2024, focusing on aircraft acquisition, sale, and leasing operations, particularly during the voluntary administration period between 2020 and 2021. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam stated in the National Assembly that the report's findings are "particularly serious," citing substantial financial losses, falsified documents presented to the former board, and potentially criminal acts. The report indicates a net loss of approximately Rs 1.2 billion from the sale of four aircraft between 2018 and 2021. It also highlights alleged concerted actions involving th
4 min read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·4 Jul 2026
World Knits employees face uncertainty and unpaid wages under voluntary administration
The United Federation of Workers FTU has raised concerns about the stressful situation faced by employees of the World Knits group, which was placed under voluntary administration in May. Negotiator Atma Shanto stated that nearly 700 families are without resources, as June salaries have not been paid, and some personnel received only 50% of their May wages. The group includes Kline Textiles, Universal Fabrics Ltd, and World Knits Ltd. Shanto highlighted that late salary payments have been an issue since last year, despite workers' cooperation to maintain production. He emphasized that the government should protect workers, especially given the rising cost of living in Mauritius. Some employees, lacking resources, have moved in with relatives. The situation is particularly difficult for administrative and middle management staff, who only received half their May salaries, while operatives received full pay. Employees of Universal Fabrics remain technically unemployed. Shanto also noted concerns about gratuity on retirement and pensions for those nearing retirement age, fearing they could face extreme poverty. He pointed out that the situation violates Article 114 of the Workers Rights Act and questioned the fate of foreign workers. The FTU plans a demonstration in Rose-Hill to protest the situation and demand government action to uphold workers' rights.
3 min read