This week in Mauritius, the IMF predicts a 4.9% growth, the dengue epidemic persists, and a new law for the protection of people with disabilities was passed.
A 4.9% growth projected for Mauritius this year
In its latest report on global economic prospects released on April 16th, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) maintains optimism regarding Mauritius' economic growth for the year 2024, projecting it at 4.9%. However, the IMF has revised its inflation forecasts for the country upward, now anticipating a rate of 5.1%, compared to an initial estimate of 4.9%. Globally, the IMF forecasts a stable economic growth of 3.2% in 2024 and 2025, but this trend is expected to slow to 3.1% over the following five years, reaching its lowest level in decades. Despite some positive signs, the report also highlights several risks, including persistent inflationary pressures, geopolitical tensions, and challenges in some major emerging economies. For Mauritius, the challenge will be to find reliable investments, especially foreign ones, to boost economic growth and ensure sustainable stability in an uncertain global context.
A dengue epidemic that shows no signs of abating
Since its emergence in December 2023, the dengue epidemic seems to defy all control strategies put in place. Despite vigorous efforts by the Ministry of Health, the virus continues to spread, fueling concerns.
According to the latest official data, the number of active cases of dengue fever reached 315 on Tuesday, April 16th, marking a slight increase compared to previous figures. Since the beginning of the crisis, no fewer than 4,383 cases have been reported, indicating the tenacity of this mosquito-borne disease.
Despite fumigation efforts, larvicide spraying, and other targeted measures, the epidemic remains stubborn. While urban areas, notably the capital and its surroundings, were initially affected, the disease is now spreading to northern regions, with well-identified outbreak areas in Goodlands, Roche-Terre, and Poudre-d'Or, among others. Rural areas are not spared, with cases reported in Tamarin, Rivière-Noire, Flacq, Bramsthan, Palmar, and Belle-Mare.
The arrival of winter offers a glimmer of hope, but Dr. Badulla warns of surprises related to climate change. Indeed, an unexpected outbreak in May 2023, persisting until August of the same year, has already defied expectations.
A new law for the protection of people with disabilities
On Tuesday evening at 8:30 p.m., the National Assembly voted in favor of the Protection & Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, marking a significant advancement in the fight against discrimination against people with disabilities. In her closing speech, Minister of National Solidarity Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo reaffirmed the fundamental objective of this bill: to eliminate barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all Mauritians. Regretting the low number of opposition members present at the time of the vote, she emphasized the importance of this legislation for the protection and well-being of our differently-abled citizens.
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth underscored the government's firm commitment to the rights of people with disabilities, stating that this law aims to offer them adequate protection. He also announced incentives for employers, encouraging them to hire at least 3% of disabled persons, with tax benefits in return.
Deputy Prime Minister Steven Obeegadoo also spoke to highlight initiatives aimed at making housing and public spaces more accessible to people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of their autonomy and dignity. He applauded the progress made in this area while stressing the need to continue efforts to ensure true inclusion for all.
The adoption of this bill thus constitutes a crucial step towards a more inclusive and equitable Mauritian society, where everyone, regardless of their disability, can fully participate and contribute to the country's development.
