Progress of governmental activities right on track, says Tourism Minister

Minister Gayan recalled that the Mahebourg Tourist Village project was set to be a joint public-private partnership endeavour.  The village, he pointed out, has rich environmental, historical and cultural assets that are poised to add to its appeal as a tourist destination.  The project, he said, essentially seeks to harness the potential of Mahebourg as a major cultural and ecotourism attraction, and supports the development and upgrading of tourism structures and infrastructure.

According to him, Government is firmly committed to promote tourism as well as all other major infrastructural works being undertaken across Mauritius, as an instrument in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals geared towards fostering sustainable development.  Mr Gayan dwelt on the action plan of the public realm which centres on: the upgrading of Mahebourg into a touristic village through the uplifting of historical relics and vestiges; and, the development of islets having recreational and tourism potentials for the promotion of ecotourism.  All activities are set to be environmentally compliant, he emphasised.

The Minister also indicated that Government has embarked on an embellishment and clean-up programme.  He enumerated some ongoing works, namely: setting up of information panels and maps in strategic places, creation of Wi-Fi spots, and infrastructural works at the Mahebourg Cavendish Bridge.

However, Minister Gayan deplored the slow progress as regards the input of the private sector and recalled that it is essential for both the public and private sectors to put in joint efforts to spearhead the Mahebourg Tourist Village project.  On that note, he urged relevant stakeholders from the private sector to provide the Ministry of Tourism with their inputs in terms of proposals and specified timeline and budget.