Mauritius is expected to experience notable economic growth, as reported by Statistics Mauritius. Also, the U.S. State Department's recent report on human rights practices in the country raises concerns about instances of police abuse, corruption, and lack of accountability. Additionally, the passing of Serge Lebrasse, a pioneer of Mauritian sega and a celebrated musical artist, has left a significant cultural void in the country.
Statistics Mauritius is expecting a 5% economic growth
Statistics Mauritius released data on Saturday showing that the country's economic growth is expected to reach 5% this year, with an upward revision for 2022 to 8.7% from the initial forecast of 7.8%. The report also indicates that GDP is expected to exceed Rs 600 billion, reaching Rs 616.4 billion, with a significant decrease in the public debt to GDP ratio.
The agricultural sector is expected to grow by 3.8%, manufacturing by 3.5%, and construction by 5.2%. The tourism and hotel sector is expected to grow by 25.7%, with a target of attracting 1.3 million tourists this year. Private sector investment is projected to grow by 11.1%, while public investment is expected to be around Rs 25.5 billion in 2023, up from Rs 22.5 billion last year. Finally, consumption is expected to grow by 9%, with household final consumption expenditure up by 2.4%.
Serge Lebrasse, sega legend, has passed away
On Thursday, Serge Lebrasse, a legendary Mauritian sega musician and pioneer of the musical style, passed away at the age of 92. Born in Rose-Hill in June 1930, he discovered sega while working as a forest ranger in Quartier-Militaire, where he also met Ti Frère, another sega icon. After starting his career in sega, his song "Madame Eugène" in 1958 brought him unexpected success, followed by many other popular hits, such as "Moris mo pei", "Per Laval", and "Mwa mo enn ti kreol".
Lebrasse was known for his stage presence and inimitable hipness. He played a key role in the evolution of sega, helping to popularize it to a wider audience and gaining acceptance among the bourgeois classes, who had previously considered it a music for the working classes only. His legacy as one of the greatest artists of Mauritian music will be remembered and will continue to inspire future generations.
2022 Country Report on Human Rights Practices: Mauritius
The U.S. State Department's recently released 2022 Country Report on Human Rights Practices: Mauritius has raised concerns about human rights abuses on the island, including police abuses, corruption, and widespread impunity. The report also highlights the exploitation and abuse of migrant workers, discrimination against LGBT+ people, and the lack of legal recognition of different gender identities. Furthermore, the report underscores concerns about corruption in the Mauritian government and the challenges of combating human trafficking.
