News highlights of the week: Stormy weather and government initiatives go live

Expat news
  • clouds in Port Louis
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Written by Arnaud Tuyau on 05 July, 2024
This week, Mauritius experiences yet another anticyclone, a leadership transition in one of the country's biggest private sector groups. The government also announced the opening of online applications for public allowances, which was announced in the budget speech, and a major drug seizure.

Rain and gusts due to another anticyclone

Mauritius has been experiencing turbulent weather due to an anticyclone, bringing intermittent showers and strong wind gusts reaching up to 60 km/h. The Mauritius Meteorological Services have issued warnings and advised residents to take necessary precautions, particularly those in coastal and highland areas. The anticyclone is expected to persist over the next few days, potentially disrupting outdoor activities and marine operations​. It is also recommended that the public stay informed through regular weather updates to ensure safety and preparedness.

Online applications for public allowances are now open

The Mauritian government has rolled out online applications for several public allowances to streamline the process and make it more accessible for citizens. These include the Pregnancy Care Allowance and Maternity Allowance, which aim to provide financial support to expecting and new mothers. A new school allowance of Rs 2,000 has also been introduced to help families with educational expenses. The online platform simplifies the application process, reduces bureaucratic delays, and ensures eligible individuals receive timely assistance. This move is part of the government's broader efforts to enhance social welfare and support the well-being of its citizens.

Leadership transition at CIEL Group

In a significant development within the corporate sector, Guillaume Dalais has officially taken over as the CEO of the CIEL Group, succeeding Jean-Pierre Dalais. This transition marks a strategic shift to enhance the company's operational efficiency and market position. Guillaume Dalais, who has been with the company for several years, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and innovative strategies to drive growth. The CIEL Group, a prominent conglomerate in Mauritius, operates across various sectors, including healthcare, agribusiness, and finance, making this leadership change crucial for its future projects​.

Major drug seizure on fishing vessels

In a major anti-narcotics operation, Mauritian authorities have seized Rs 16.7 million worth of hashish on a fishing vessel. The operation involved extensive surveillance and coordination, leading to the interception of the vessel and the arrest of its crew. Fingerprint samples have been taken, and the crew members are being interrogated to uncover more details about the smuggling network. This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking in Mauritius, highlighting the island's strategic position in regional drug routes​.