Expat news in Mauritius

New trade sanctions, tourism decline and environmental initiatives in Mauritius
Everyday life
New trade sanctions, tourism decline and environmental initiatives in Mauritius
This week in Mauritius, the headlines include new trade sanctions that benefit consumers, a drop in tourist arrivals for February 2025, and an investment by the ENL Group in tea cultivation aimed at bolstering the island's agricultural self-sufficiency.
Mauritius weekly highlights: Environmental initiatives, water reserves crisis, and road safety concerns
Everyday life
Mauritius weekly highlights: Environmental initiatives, water reserves crisis, and road safety concerns
This week in Mauritius, water reserves continue to face critical shortages, with levels still well below average despite recent rainfall. Meanwhile, the government is intensifying its environmental conservation efforts. This includes the removal of unauthorized buildings on Benitiers Island and initiating a project to replenish the sea cucumber population. On the safety front, while there has been a small decline in deadly accidents, the risk to pedestrians and the elderly is still a significant issue.
Tips to navigate traffic for drivers in Mauritius around Maha Shivaratree pilgrimmage
Tips to navigate traffic for drivers in Mauritius around Maha Shivaratree pilgrimmage
Maha Shivaratree is one of the most significant religious festivals in Mauritius, drawing thousands of pilgrims who embark on foot pilgrimages to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao). While deeply spiritual for devotees, the event also brings disruptions for those not directly involved in the celebrations. Heavy traffic, road closures, and slowed public services can create logistical challenges. Here's how to navigate this period with minimal inconvenience.
Mauritius weekly highlights:  VigiMobile, an app to monitor drug side effects
Mauritius weekly highlights: VigiMobile, an app to monitor drug side effects
This week, advancements in pharmacovigilance through the VigiMobile tool take center stage in Mauritius. Other key developments include a strategic partnership between the UN and the government to promote cultural heritage, new educational exchange opportunities with Japan, and reinforced measures against water wastage.
Mauritius weekly news: Water shortage, energy conservation, scam alerts, and religious festivities
Everyday life
Mauritius weekly news: Water shortage, energy conservation, scam alerts, and religious festivities
This week, Mauritius grapples with pressing challenges on multiple fronts. The nation's enduring water crisis has intensified, with reservoir levels plunging below the 40% mark. Simultaneously, the Central Electricity Board (CEB) has rolled out an energy conservation initiative in response to soaring electricity consumption. Authorities are also urging caution as Mauritius Post reports a surge in fraudulent parcel scams. Meanwhile, the Tamil community embarks on the sacred Thaipoosam Cavadee period, a time of deep spiritual observance.
Energy crisis in Mauritius: An urgent call to action
Everyday life
Energy crisis in Mauritius: An urgent call to action
Have you noticed a significant hike in your electricity bill lately? This spike is a telltale sign of the peak consumption period. Mauritius is grappling with a critical issue: its strained electrical grid. Faced with record-high consumption and outdated infrastructure, the island is compelled to overhaul its energy strategy to pave the way for a sustainable future.
Weekly highlights: Focus on employment and environmental challenges in Mauritius
Everyday life
Weekly highlights: Focus on employment and environmental challenges in Mauritius
This week, Mauritius confronts multiple critical issues. The government is initiating a national study to align vocational training with job market demands. Concurrently, the nation grapples with pressing economic and ecological concerns. The construction sector faces a crisis, agriculture is heavily impacted by drought, and efforts to combat pollution are intensifying. These challenges highlight the urgent need for adaptive strategies to safeguard both the economy and the environment of the island.
Is Mauritius starting a new chapter in environmental conservation?
Everyday life
Is Mauritius starting a new chapter in environmental conservation?
Mauritius is entering a crucial phase in its environmental commitment. Recent efforts by government authorities, bolstered by public support, set the stage for a future where environmental preservation is a priority. To overcome ongoing challenges, a thorough and unified approach is necessary to turn these ambitions into sustainable outcomes.
Mauritius in focus: Tourism triumphs and water woes
Mauritius in focus: Tourism triumphs and water woes
Mauritius has captured headlines recently for two starkly contrasting reasons. On one side, the island is celebrating its rising status as a premier African tourist destination. On the other, it faces mounting environmental pressures, particularly in water management. Together, these developments highlight Mauritius as both a coveted paradise and a territory grappling with critical sustainability challenges.
Holiday calendar 2025 in Mauritius: Your key to cultural immersion
Holiday calendar 2025 in Mauritius: Your key to cultural immersion
Mauritius, a land renowned for its harmonious blend of cultures, comes alive through its kaleidoscope of festivals celebrated throughout the year. In 2025, an array of events invites expats to delve into the island's unique traditions and foster connections within the local community. Here's your guide to the unmissable festivities over the next 12 months.
A comprehensive guide on how to keep safe during heavy and torrential rain in Mauritius
A comprehensive guide on how to keep safe during heavy and torrential rain in Mauritius
Torrential rain is a regular feature of life in Mauritius, particularly during the rainy season from November to April. While such downpours are intrinsic to the island's tropical climate, they can wreak havoc on daily routines, especially for expatriates who may be less familiar with the associated risks and response protocols. To safeguard residents and visitors, the Mauritius Meteorological Service (MMS) issues a three-tier alert system, providing tailored advice disseminated across radio, television, mobile apps, and social media. Staying informed and prepared is vital, as rapidly changing weather conditions demand quick adaptation. This guide explains the risks posed by torrential rain, outlines essential safety measures, and offers practical advice to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The subtle joys of expat life
The subtle joys of expat life
Bold decisions and the exhilaration of fresh beginnings may set the stage for an expat's journey, but it's the unassuming, everyday moments that weave the real magic. These fleeting yet profound delights ground us, urging us to cherish the connection with our newfound home.
How expats redefine Christmas in the tropics
How expats redefine Christmas in the tropics
Spending Christmas in a tropical haven challenges expats to redefine the holiday spirit with ingenuity. Gone are snowy backdrops and roaring fires; instead, palm-lined beaches and vibrant sunsets set the stage. Whether honoring Saint Nicholas Day, embracing local Mauritian customs, or crafting their own unique rituals, expats find ways to keep the magic alive. Despite the sunshine and swimsuits, the essence of Christmas thrives, weaving together community, spirituality, and moments of wonder.
Purchasing power in Mauritius: Everything you need to know about the one-off 14th month bonus
Purchasing power in Mauritius: Everything you need to know about the one-off 14th month bonus
The Mauritian government has rolled out new measures aimed at shoring up the purchasing power of workers and retirees. Chief among these initiatives are a one-time 14th month salary payment and a wage compensation plan—actions garnering widespread attention amid mounting economic pressures.
Weekly highlights: Donation drive for Agalega, beach safety measures, and Mauritius leads Africa in fund domiciliation
Weekly highlights: Donation drive for Agalega, beach safety measures, and Mauritius leads Africa in fund domiciliation
This week brings a mix of impactful initiatives and key developments. From a vital donation drive organized by the NGO We Care to stepped-up efforts by the National Coast Guard to keep beaches safe during the festive season, there's plenty happening. On another front, Mauritius cements its position as Africa's top destination for fund domiciliation, reinforcing its status as a leading financial hub. Here's what you need to know.
Weekly highlights: Subsidized products from 2025, water crisis, and Kreol Festival
Everyday life
Weekly highlights: Subsidized products from 2025, water crisis, and Kreol Festival
This week in Mauritius, several significant initiatives were launched that directly impact daily life. These include measures to enhance purchasing power, protect our beaches, manage water resources effectively, and promote Creole culture. 
Weekly highlights: Ferney unveils Farm Living, demolition of key Port Louis parking lots, and foreign counterfeit banknotes circulation
Weekly highlights: Ferney unveils Farm Living, demolition of key Port Louis parking lots, and foreign counterfeit banknotes circulation
As Mauritius gears up for year-end festivities, the news remains eventful. The launch of Farm Living in Ferney reflects the nation's ecological commitment through a groundbreaking agriresidential initiative blending housing and biodiversity preservation. Meanwhile, in Port Louis, authorities take flood-prevention measures with the planned demolition of two strategic parking lots. Simultaneously, the Bank of Mauritius has issued a warning about counterfeit foreign banknotes circulating in the country.
Weekly update: Anticipated reduction in petrol prices?
Weekly update: Anticipated reduction in petrol prices?
This week, Mauritius has witnessed several significant developments: a prospective decrease in petrol prices, the inauguration of a biogas facility in Beau Bassin, ongoing demolition works at Ruisseau du Pouce to mitigate flood risks, and the international acclaim of Mauritian photographer Joël Capillaire, a finalist in the HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2024.

Other Types

Chikungunya in Mauritius: How to stay safe from the virus
Everyday life
Chikungunya in Mauritius: How to stay safe from the virus
Five cases of chikungunya have been reported during the past week in Mauritius, marking the first occurrence since 2009. In response, the Mauritian authorities have swiftly enacted measures to curb the virus's spread. It is crucial for both residents and expatriates to remain informed and vigilant. This article provides comprehensive information about chikungunya, updates on the situation in Mauritius, and guidance on safeguarding yourself and your loved ones.
MAMA JAZ Festival 2025: A decade of music and culture with Gavin Poonoosamy
Leisure
MAMA JAZ Festival 2025: A decade of music and culture with Gavin Poonoosamy
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the MAMA JAZ festival has become a staple of the cultural scene in Mauritius. Founded by Gavin Poonoosamy, this annual event transcends jazz to explore the richness of musical creation. In this interview, Gavin shares the origins, challenges, and successes of MAMA JAZ, revealing how this festival has shaped the artistic landscape of the island.
Mauritius water crisis: How rainwater harvesting can help
Everyday life
Mauritius water crisis: How rainwater harvesting can help
Mauritius is currently facing a significant challenge in water management. The country's seven main reservoirs are only 44.5% full on average, a stark decrease from 92.6% around the same time last year, reports the Water Resources Unit of the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities. Although recent rainfall has brought some relief, it hasn't been enough to alleviate concerns, especially with the La Ferme reservoir at a mere 24.7% capacity.
Cyclone Garance aftermath: Vegetable prices skyrocket in Mauritius
Everyday life
Cyclone Garance aftermath: Vegetable prices skyrocket in Mauritius
Cyclone Garance has significantly impacted Mauritius' agricultural sector. Although the rain was initially seen as beneficial following a severe drought, it has also led to a sharp price increase, heavily affecting household budgets. This article explores the chaotic market where both farmers and consumers are struggling to cope.
Top events in Mauritius in March
Leisure
Top events in Mauritius in March
Explore the highlights of Mauritius in March 2025 with our guide to can't-miss events! Enjoy everything from performances by the Moscow State Dance Company to tributes featuring the music of James Bond. Find the ideal cultural experience for your weekends or evenings.
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Everyday life
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.