Mauritius "enters a new phase", welcomed Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth on Tuesday evening in an address to the nation to announce these new provisions after two years of restriction.
"Difficult decisions had to be made, particularly total confinement which had consequences on the economy", recalled the Prime Minister, welcoming in particular the vaccination rate achieved by Mauritius.
“We did not rush to reopen our borders, it was done in stages and we see that it is a formula that has worked well”, underlined Mr. Jugnauth, concluding: “Now it is with confidence that we can enter a new phase".
Wearing a mask will no longer be compulsory in public spaces, but will remain compulsory in health centers and public transport.
Restrictions on public gatherings - weddings, funerals, places of worship, etc... - are lifted, the prime minister said.
Bars and nightclubs can reopen, as can large sports arenas and the ban on picnics on the beaches is lifted.
The Prime Minister nevertheless encouraged the population to remain vigilant about the spread of the virus and to take precautions.
Mauritius had reopened its doors to international visitors in early October, but a rebound in the pandemic the following month had imposed a new wave of restriction measures, plunging a vital tourist industry for the country.
© 2022 AFP