MAURITIUS
Date of establishment: March 12, 1968
Brief history:
16th century: The island of Mauritius was first recorded by Europeans in 1507, when Portuguese sailors, led by Dom Pedro Mascarenhas, arrived. However, the Portuguese did not establish a permanent settlement, and the island remained uninhabited until the arrival of the Dutch in the late 16th century. The island was named “Ihla do Cirne” by the Portuguese, but they did not settle there.
17th century: The Dutch established the first colony on Mauritius in 1638, naming the island after Prince Maurice of Nassau. They introduced sugarcane, domestic animals, and invasive species that had significant impacts on the local ecosystem, including the extinction of the dodo bird. However, due to harsh environmental conditions, cyclones, and difficulties in sustaining the colony, the Dutch abandoned Mauritius in 1710.
18th century: The French took control of the island in 1715 and renamed it Île de France. They developed the island into a prosperous colony, focusing on sugar production, which became the backbone of the economy. The French also imported enslaved people from Africa to work on the sugar plantations. French rule lasted until 1810, when the island was captured by the British during the Napoleonic Wars. Despite British control, the French language, culture, and legal system continued to exert a strong influence on the island.
19th century: Mauritius officially became a British colony in 1814 under the Treaty of Paris. The British abolished slavery in 1835, leading to a labor shortage on the sugar plantations. To address this, the British introduced the system of indentured labor, bringing a large number of laborers from India to work in the sugar industry. This immigration significantly changed the demographic composition of Mauritius, making people of Indian descent the majority population. The island became a melting pot of cultures, including African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences.
20th century: Mauritius moved toward self-governance, and in 1968, it achieved independence from the United Kingdom. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam became the first Prime Minister, and the island retained membership in the Commonwealth. After independence, Mauritius faced challenges related to ethnic diversity and economic dependency on sugar, but it gradually diversified its economy.
Later 20th century: During the latter half of the 20th century, Mauritius transformed into one of Africa’s most stable and prosperous economies. The country developed a strong tourism industry, expanded its textile manufacturing sector, and became a significant financial services hub. Mauritius also established itself as a model of political stability and democracy in Africa, with regular free and fair elections and a strong commitment to the rule of law.
21st century: In recent years, Mauritius has continued to build on its economic successes, pursuing growth in new sectors such as information and communication technology (ICT), offshore banking, and renewable energy. The country has also focused on social development, improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Mauritius has maintained its reputation as a stable democracy with a high standard of living relative to other African nations. A significant event was the 2015 decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled that the British must return the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius. Although the United Kingdom has not yet complied with this ruling, the issue remains a point of national importance for Mauritius.
International abbreviation: MT
Currency: Mauritian rupee MUR
The currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian rupee, which is divided into smaller units called cents. One rupee is equal to 100 cents. The Mauritian rupee was introduced in 1877, replacing the Indian rupee, which had previously been in use.
The current denominations of Mauritian coins are 5 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, 1 rupee, 5 rupees, 10 rupees, and 20 rupees. The smaller denomination coins (5, 20, and 50 cents) are commonly used in everyday transactions, while the higher denomination coins (1, 5, 10, and 20 rupees) are also widely circulated.
The banknotes in circulation in Mauritius come in denominations of 25 rupees, 50 rupees, 100 rupees, 200 rupees, 500 rupees, 1,000 rupees, and 2,000 rupees. Each banknote features various symbols and personalities significant to Mauritian history and culture, such as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the “Father of the Nation,” who appears on the 500 rupee note.
Internet domain: .mt
Dialing code: +230
Time zone: GMT +4
Geography:
Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) southeast of the African continent and about 800 kilometers (500 miles) east of Madagascar. The country comprises several islands and archipelagos, including the main island of Mauritius, the island of Rodrigues, the Saint Brandon (Cargados Carajos) archipelago, and the Agaléga Islands. The main island of Mauritius is the largest and most populous, where the capital city, Port Louis, is located.
Rodrigues, situated about 560 kilometers (348 miles) to the east of the main island, is the second-largest island in the country. The Saint Brandon archipelago consists of over 50 small islands and atolls, known for their rich marine biodiversity. The Agaléga Islands, located about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) north of Mauritius, are sparsely populated and primarily serve as a site for coconut production.
The islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues, along with the French overseas department of Réunion, are part of the Mascarene Islands, an archipelago that formed millions of years ago as a result of volcanic activity. These islands share a similar geological history, characterized by volcanic peaks, lush landscapes, and unique ecosystems.
Highest peak: Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire 828 m a.s.l. (2 717 feet above sea level)
This peak is volcanic, located in the central part of the island and forms part of the Black River range. Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire is also an important place for nature conservation – a nature reserve was established here to protect endemic plant species and rare fauna.
Climate:
Mauritius experiences a tropical climate with distinct summer and winter seasons. The summer season, which lasts from November to April, is characterized by hot, humid, and rainy weather. Average temperatures during this period range from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius (77 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit), although coastal areas may be slightly cooler due to sea breezes. This time of year is also when tropical cyclones are most likely to occur, particularly between January and March. These cyclones, though relatively rare, can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for flooding.
The winter season, from May to October, is cooler, drier, and more comfortable, making it the preferred time for tourists to visit. Temperatures during this period typically range from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius (64 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is generally stable, with much less rainfall than in the summer, and there is no risk of cyclones. Winter is also an ideal time for outdoor activities, including hiking, sightseeing, and water sports such as diving and snorkeling, as visibility underwater is often at its best.
The sea around Mauritius remains warm throughout the year, adding to its appeal as a beach destination. During the summer, sea temperatures typically range from 27 to 29 degrees Celsius (81 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit), while in winter, the sea temperature cools slightly to between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius (73 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), still comfortable for swimming and other water activities.
Mauritius enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists. The island’s varied topography creates microclimates, meaning that weather conditions can differ between regions, with the central plateau typically cooler and wetter than the coastal areas. The combination of warm temperatures, ample sunshine, and relatively stable winter weather conditions contributes to Mauritius’s appeal as an attractive year-round destination
Fauna and flora:
Mauritius was once home to a rich diversity of endemic bird species, but many of these have become extinct following the arrival of Europeans, largely due to habitat destruction and the introduction of invasive species. The most famous of these is the dodo, which became extinct in the late 17th century. However, several endemic bird species have survived, including the Mauritius kestrel, which was once the rarest bird in the world but has recovered due to successful conservation efforts. Other surviving endemic birds include the Mauritius cuckoo-shrike, the Mauritius fody, the Mauritius olive white-eye, and the pink pigeon, all of which have been subjects of intensive conservation programs.
The island is also home to several species of endemic reptiles, such as the Mauritius ornate day gecko and the Telfair’s skink. The Mauritius giant tortoise, once widespread on the island, became extinct, but there have been efforts to introduce closely related species to help restore the island’s ecosystems.
The hawksbill turtle, like other marine turtles, was once on the verge of extinction due to over-exploitation and habitat loss. Conservation efforts, including protection of nesting sites and breeding programs, have been implemented to help save this species. Additionally, around Mauritius, one can observe various marine mammals, including spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and several species of whales, such as the sperm whale and humpback whale, which migrate through the region.
Mauritius is also home to many endemic plant species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. The island’s unique flora includes rare species like the Trochetia boutoniana (the national flower), various types of orchids, and the critically endangered ebony trees. The lataniers, or fan palms, are another group of endemic plants that are vital to the island’s ecosystem. However, many of these plants are endangered due to deforestation and the spread of invasive species.
Mauritius once had extensive forests of ebony and other hardwoods, but much of this original forest was cleared during the colonial period. Today, efforts are being made to restore and protect what remains of the island’s native vegetation. Rich in biodiversity, the island’s vegetation includes species like black ebony (Diospyros tessellaria), Bois de Natte (Nuxia verticillata), and various types of palm trees, including the endemic palm species like the Mauritian bottle palm and the latanier.
Agriculture:
Sugar cane has been a traditional and dominant crop in Mauritius for centuries, playing a crucial role in the island’s economy since the colonial period. While sugar was historically the main export product, its economic significance has diminished in recent decades due to diversification efforts. Nevertheless, sugar production remains important, with sugar factories located across the island.
The island has a well-established tea industry, with tea plantations primarily located in the central highlands, particularly in areas like Bois Chéri. These plantations produce various types of tea, including black tea and flavored teas, which are consumed locally and exported.
Mauritius is rich in tropical fruit production, with pineapples, papayas, bananas, mangoes, and citrus fruits being widely grown. The island’s fertile soil and tropical climate allow for the successful cultivation of a variety of fruits that are consumed both locally and exported. The cultivation of vegetables is also significant, with crops such as potatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, beans, and other vegetables being grown to meet local demand.
Mauritius has developed a robust floriculture industry, taking advantage of its climate to grow a wide variety of flowers and ornamental plants. The country is known for producing orchids, anthuriums, and roses, among other flowers. These are not only popular locally but are also exported, contributing to the island’s agricultural exports.
Fishing plays an important role in Mauritius, both as a livelihood for local communities and as a contributor to the economy. The rich marine environment around Mauritius supports the fishing of various species, including tuna, which is a significant export product. Shrimp farming and the harvesting of other seafood, such as octopus and sea cucumbers, also contribute to the local and export markets. Aquaculture is increasingly being developed to supplement traditional fishing methods.
Extraction of natural resources:
Mauritius is not known for significant mining of natural resources, as the island lacks substantial mineral reserves typically associated with large-scale mining operations.
Sand and gravel extraction does take place and is particularly important for local construction projects, including roads, buildings, and coastal protection infrastructure. The island’s volcanic origin provides a source of basalt rock, which is extensively used for construction and road maintenance. Quarrying activities focus on extracting this stone, which is crushed and used as aggregate in various construction applications.
While the extraction of these raw materials is necessary for the island’s development, it poses environmental challenges.
Industry:
The textile and clothing industry has long been one of the main pillars of Mauritius’s economy. The country is recognized for its production of high-quality textiles and garments, which are exported to markets around the world, including Europe, the United States, and Africa. The sector has benefited from preferential trade agreements, such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) with the United States and the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union. Mauritius’s textile industry has diversified over the years, focusing on higher value-added products, including luxury garments and fashion brands.
In addition to textiles, Mauritius has a well-developed food processing industry. Sugar production, historically the backbone of the Mauritian economy, remains significant. Although its economic dominance has diminished, the sugar industry continues to contribute through the production of sugar, molasses, rum, and by-products like electricity generated from bagasse (a by-product of sugar cane). The food industry also includes the processing and export of seafood, particularly tuna, which is a major export product. The canning and freezing of fish, along with the production of various processed food products for local and international markets, are important aspects of this industry.
Mauritius is also experiencing growth in other sectors, including the electronics and technology industries. The government has been promoting the development of an ICT (Information and Communication Technology) sector, which has seen rapid growth and is becoming an increasingly important part of the economy. The electronics industry, though still in its early stages, is gradually expanding with the production of electronic components and the assembly of consumer electronics, often linked to the broader ICT sector.
Infrastructure development is another significant area in Mauritius. The country has invested heavily in improving its infrastructure to support its growing economy. New roads, buildings, airports, and other infrastructure projects are being constructed, with an emphasis on enhancing connectivity, supporting tourism, and facilitating trade. The construction industry plays a crucial role in these developments, and Mauritius continues to modernize its infrastructure to maintain its competitive edge as a regional hub for business and finance.
Services and other areas of the economy: tourism, finance, and air and sea transport
Natural and historical attractions: Eureka, Port Louis, Le Morne Brabant peninsula, Le Pouce and Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire mountains, beaches, and the Chamarel area
Mauritius is renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear azure waters. Tourists flock to the island to relax, sunbathe, and engage in various water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and deep-sea fishing. The surrounding coral reefs offer some of the best underwater experiences in the Indian Ocean, making Mauritius a prime destination for marine enthusiasts.
The country has a rich and diverse cultural history shaped by its multi-ethnic population, which includes people of Indian, African, Chinese, and European (primarily French) descent. This cultural melting pot is reflected in the island’s vibrant traditions, languages, and religious practices. Visitors can explore this cultural diversity through numerous museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals. For instance, the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commemorates the arrival of indentured laborers from India. Also significant is the Le Morne Brabant, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which symbolizes the resistance to slavery.
Mauritius also offers breathtaking natural scenery beyond its beaches. The Black River Gorges National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, where one can explore dense rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails. The park is also home to several endemic species of flora and fauna, making it an important site for conservation. Another natural wonder is the Chamarel Seven Colored Earths, a geological formation with sand dunes of seven distinct colors, a phenomenon caused by the weathering of volcanic rock.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mauritius is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, with several world-class golf courses designed by renowned golfers and architects. These courses, set against stunning backdrops, attract golfers from around the globe.
Mauritian cuisine is a flavorful blend of the island’s diverse cultures, offering a wide array of dishes influenced by Indian, Chinese, Creole, and French cuisines. Tourists can savor traditional dishes like dholl puri, a popular street food, various curries, fresh seafood, and exotic fruits like lychees and mangoes. The culinary experience in Mauritius is further enriched by the use of local spices and ingredients, providing a unique and memorable taste of the island.
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Form of government: parliamentary republic
The Constitution of Mauritius is founded on democratic principles and upholds the rule of law. Mauritius is a parliamentary republic with a clear separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
The president is the ceremonial head of state and represents the unity of the nation. While the president is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, their role is largely symbolic and does not involve active military command. The president is elected by the National Assembly for a five-year term and may be re-elected, and there is no specific limit on the number of terms they may serve.
Executive power is vested in the prime minister, who is the head of government and holds the most significant political power in Mauritius. The prime minister is typically the leader of the majority party or coalition in the National Assembly and is formally appointed by the president. The prime minister leads the cabinet and is responsible for setting government policy, managing the day-to-day operations of the government, and representing Mauritius domestically and internationally.
The legislative body is a unicameral parliament known as the National Assembly. It comprises 70 members who are elected for five-year terms. Of these, 62 members are directly elected in multi-member constituencies, while up to 8 additional members, known as “best losers,” may be appointed to ensure fair representation of various ethnic groups. This unique system aims to maintain political stability and inclusiveness in the multi-ethnic society of Mauritius.
The judiciary in Mauritius is independent and operates free from interference by the executive or legislative branches. The judicial system includes several levels of courts, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest court of appeal. The Supreme Court ensures that the Constitution is upheld and that the legal order is maintained. It also has the power of judicial review, allowing it to assess the constitutionality of laws and government actions.
Mauritius is often praised for its stable and effective democratic governance, which has contributed to its status as one of Africa’s most prosperous and well-governed countries.
Capital city: Port Louis
Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, is located on the northwest coast of the island and serves as the economic, cultural, and administrative center of the country. Founded in 1735 by French Governor Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, the city was initially established as a port and military fortress, playing a strategically significant role during the French colonization of Mauritius. It was named after King Louis XV of France. Following the Napoleonic Wars, Mauritius was ceded to the British in 1810, and Port Louis became the administrative hub under British colonial rule until the country gained independence in 1968.
Today, Port Louis is a vibrant city that reflects the island’s diverse cultural heritage and history. A key historical site is the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that marks the arrival of indentured laborers from India in the 19th century, offering a deep insight into the island’s social history. The Citadel Fort Adelaide, built by the British in the early 19th century, provides panoramic views of the city and the harbor, standing as a reminder of the city’s military past.
The Central Market, also known as the Bazaar of Port Louis, is the bustling heart of local commerce, where visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase fresh produce, spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts. Nearby, the Caudan Waterfront offers a modern contrast, featuring a commercial and entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, cinemas, and a casino, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
For those interested in history and culture, the Blue Penny Museum is a must-visit, housing some of Mauritius’s most valuable cultural artifacts, including the world-famous “Blue Penny” and “Red Penny” stamps. The Jummah Mosque, a 19th-century architectural gem, blends Indian, Creole, and Islamic influences and stands as an important religious site for the Muslim community in Mauritius. Another significant landmark is the Government House, one of the oldest buildings in the country, which serves as the official office of the president and showcases neoclassical architecture from the colonial era.
The city has a population of about 145 000.
Area: 2 040 km2 (788 square miles)
Population: 1 276 000 (2022 estimate)
The population of Mauritius is highly diverse, comprising several ethnic groups that have settled on the island over centuries. This diversity is a result of the island’s complex history of colonization, slavery, and immigration.
The largest ethnic group in Mauritius is of Indian descent, comprising descendants of indentured laborers who were brought to the island by the British in the 19th century after the abolition of slavery. These workers came primarily from the Indian subcontinent, and today, they make up the majority of the population. Within this group, there are subgroups based on religion, language, and regional origin, including Hindus, Muslims, and Tamil-speaking communities.
Creoles, another significant ethnic group, are primarily descendants of African slaves brought to Mauritius by the French during the 18th century. The term “Creole” in Mauritius broadly refers to people of mixed African and European ancestry, although it is most commonly associated with the Afro-Mauritian community. Creoles have contributed significantly to the island’s cultural and social life, particularly in music, cuisine, and language.
The Chinese community in Mauritius, although smaller, has also played an important role in the island’s history. Many Chinese immigrants came to Mauritius in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, initially as traders and later as entrepreneurs. They have maintained a distinct cultural identity while also integrating into the broader Mauritian society.
Mauritius was a former French colony, and while the French population is now small, French cultural influences remain strong. This influence is evident in the widespread use of the French language, the popularity of French cuisine, and the prevalence of Roman Catholicism.
Religious diversity in Mauritius reflects its ethnic diversity. Hinduism is the largest religion, practiced by the majority of the population. Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, is the second-largest religion, followed by Islam, which is practiced by a significant minority. There is also a small community of Buddhists, primarily among the Chinese population, as well as people who practice other religions or none at all.
The official language of Mauritius is English, but French is also widely used in government, media, and education. Mauritian Creole, a French-based Creole language, is the lingua franca of the island and is spoken by almost the entire population. In addition, several other languages are commonly used, reflecting the island’s multicultural makeup, including Hindi, Urdu, Tamil, and Chinese dialects such as Hakka and Cantonese.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 2
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- Aapravasi Ghat (2006) – Hostels for Indian seasonal workers used by the British government to replace slave labor. Between 1834 and 1920, almost half a million people passed through them.
- Le Morne (2008) – A mountain that juts out of the Indian Ocean in the southwest of Mauritius, which was used as a refuge for runaway slaves during the 18th and 19th centuries.
National parks: 2
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- Black River Gorges National Park
- Bras d’Eau National Park
