Latest news with #MTPA
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
R4.5b development plans for Witbank Dam catches everyone off guard
R4.5b development plans for Witbank Dam catches everyone off guard The news that the Nkangala Economic Development Agency (NEDA) is going to give Witbank Dam a facelift worth R4.5b has left everyone gobsmacked. The municipality was not aware of the plans to develop the dam into a world-class waterfront destination. They have written to all the role players to get more insight into the announcement that was made at the prestigious Africa Tourism Indaba 2025 in Durban earlier this month. The announcement was made by Dr Moeketsi Mosola, Chief Executive Officer of Neda, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) on May 14. Mosola said the development of the Witbank Dam and the nature reserve is the brain child of Executive Mayor, Hounable Cllr Thomas Ngwenya. Ngwenya requested Neda to develop a concept around what can be done. The board of Neda commissioned a concept study for the development and approved it. As a result, this was approved as part of the Mega Catalytic Projects to be pursued by the Neda. The concept document has been approved by Neda board for public consultation including stakeholders such as Emalahleni Municipality, the local communities, business, and workers. Mosola said Neda's plans include two hotels, a modern shopping and restaurant experience, luxury boat cruises and the reconstruction of the game reserve next to the dam. 'This development is not just about infrastructure; it's about restoring pride and excitement in our community while attracting investment,' said Mosola. With the MOU signed and sealed, Neda and the MTPA indicated that collaboration with stakeholders and environmental impact assessments will get off the ground. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with phased openings over the following years. Breaking news at your fingertips … Follow WITBANK NEWS on our website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or TikTok Chat to us: info@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Business
- New Indian Express
Construction of Kadapa Steel Plant will begin in 10 days, assures CM Naidu
KADAPA: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced that the construction of the much-anticipated steel plant in Kadapa will commence within the next 10 days. Naidu made this announcement after being re-elected as the National President of the Telugu Desam Party on the second day of the ongoing Mahanadu conclave on Wednesday. The declaration, made by the party's election committee chairman Varla Ramaiah, drew loud cheers from party leaders and workers. After assuming charge, Naidu addressed the party workers and revealed that the Rs 4,500 crore, three-Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) steel project, set to be developed by industrialist Sajjan Jindal's JSW Steel, is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs and serve as a cornerstone for industrial growth in the region. 'This project alone will provide employment to more than 3,000 people,' Naidu told a cheering crowd. 'It marks the beginning of a new industrial era for Rayalaseema.' Highlighting his government's commitment to balanced development, the Chief Minister said, 'Our policy is clear—decentralization of development. We are committed to developing every region of the state equally. Large-scale industries must be established in Rayalaseema to ensure balanced growth.' The Kadapa steel plant had earlier faced multiple delays. However, a recent high-level meeting between CM Naidu and JSW Chairman Sajjan Jindal at the Chief Minister's residence in Delhi helped revive the stalled project, paving the way for swift execution. Naidu also unveiled a bold blueprint for statewide water connectivity, with the Banakacherla project taking centre stage. Calling it a transformative initiative, Naidu declared, 'Once the Polavaram–Banakacherla linkage is completed, the state will see immense benefits.'
Hi Dubai
26-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Emirates Opens Travel Store in Mauritius and Renews Tourism Partnership
Emirates, the world's largest international airline, has officially launched a new Travel Store in Port-Louis, Mauritius, strengthening its presence and commitment to enhancing the travel experience for Mauritian customers. The opening marks a key milestone alongside the renewal of a long-standing partnership with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) aimed at boosting tourism to the island. Located at The Docks 2, United Docks Business Park, the 1,895-square-foot store offers immersive technology-driven experiences and personalised travel support. Customers can explore Emirates' latest inflight products, access self-service kiosks, take destination-themed photos, and purchase exclusive branded merchandise. The launch ceremony featured Emirates Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim, Mauritius Minister of Housing and Lands Shakeel Mohamed, and senior executives from both Emirates and MTPA. Kazim emphasized the airline's 23 years of service in Mauritius and its dedication to providing seamless, personalised service through the new store. Alongside the store opening, Emirates and MTPA signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding to continue promoting Mauritius as a top tourist destination. The partnership, active since 2012, focuses on engaging travel agents and tour operators across key global markets to increase visitor arrivals, which surpassed 1.3 million in 2024. Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Emirates Senior Vice President for Commercial West Asia and Indian Ocean, highlighted the importance of the airline's double daily A380 flights in supporting the island's tourism growth and local economy. Minister of Tourism Richard Duval and MTPA Chairperson Claire Le Lay both praised the collaboration's role in expanding Mauritius's global connectivity and tourism appeal. Emirates currently operates two direct daily A380 flights to Mauritius, continuing its role as a vital link between the island and the world. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Trade Arabia
21-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Mauritius Tourism Authority targets Gulf travellers for growth
The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) President, Claire Le Lay, highlighted the growing importance of Gulf and Emirati visitors to the island nation's tourism strategy in an exclusive interview with TTN Magazine. Importance of Gulf Travellers Le Lay highlighted the value of Gulf travellers, stating, "We greatly value the growing importance of Emirati and Gulf travellers to Mauritius." She expressed the MTPA's commitment to enhancing partnerships by offering enriching experiences that align with the aspirations of these tourists. Strategies to Attract Emirati Travellers To attract Emirati travellers, Le Lay outlined a product-driven approach. "Mauritius offers a tourism product of world-class quality," she noted, mentioning luxury accommodations and exceptional service as key factors. The MTPA aims to deliver the high standards of privacy and personalised service that Gulf tourists expect. In addition to bolstering ties with the travel trade, Le Lay stressed the importance of strong consumer campaigns targeting locals, expatriates, and niche markets such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Influencer marketing will play a pivotal role, with collaborations on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to rejuvenate Mauritius's image. Le Lay's vision is clear: to reposition Mauritius as a destination that offers diverse and memorable experiences beyond its beautiful beaches. The MTPA is also preparing a targeted campaign for the Middle Eastern summer, positioning Mauritius as a safe, temperate escape during the region's extreme heat. Growth in Tourist Numbers Tourist arrivals from the Middle East have seen significant growth, with numbers rising from 19,471 in 2017 to 37,063 in 2024. However, Le Lay believes there is still untapped potential in this market. "The MTPA is setting an ambitious goal to grow this segment to 60,000 tourists by 2028," she stated, reflecting on the approximately 420,000 available seats to the destination from Emirates and Saudi Airlines. Participation in Arabian Travel Market Le Lay also discussed the MTPA's participation in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), one of the world's leading travel exhibitions. She emphasised that ATM 2025 will elevate Mauritius's global tourism profile, showcasing its luxury offerings and unique experiences. The event is expected to facilitate high-value business deals and unlock new opportunities in the dynamic Gulf travel market. With a growing number of Mauritian participants at ATM—from 17 in 2019 to 25 in 2025—the MTPA is clearly prioritising its engagement with the Middle East, aiming to attract more affluent travellers to its shores.
IOL News
19-05-2025
- IOL News
From kayaking to cuisine: savouring the best of Mauritius
Take me back to paradise: Beachcomber Victoria is a haven for South Africans. Image: Supplied I'm not sure what it is about travelling, but one gets to do things one never usually does at home, despite the splendours of our beloved South Africa. Nine years later, back in Mauritius, I successfully wielded the sticks with skinny arms on a kayak. I am averse to water. Martin Jacobs, a wonderful travel mate and fellow novice who joined Cape Town, proved an able partner in the paddle. Jacobs, a creative director and content creator, was seated at the front of the kayak. I've always been a backseat old boy. Genial, intrepid travel fundi Hermina Sennelo (she is so knowledgeable) paddled solo, escorting us on behalf of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA). She'd done this before and, therefore, looked at ease. For newbies, Martin and I did not look at all at sea. While it seemed easy, the wind beneath our pale pushed us on our way as we paddled around Ile d'Ambre Island in the Northeast of Mauritius. Of course, it didn't matter that I couldn't swim. I was handed a life jacket. All canoeists had to sign a disclaimer. Little man, you're on your own in this paradise. It helped that one could see the crystal-clear blue water below. It did not seem deep. Any signs of nervousness were gone, as one just had to swing those oars left and right until we got close to the ecological wonder they call the mangroves. Such wonders one usually sees in the movies – and in Mauritius. We rowed to a mangrove tunnel, enjoying the beautiful scenery and straying not too far from the phone to capture these moments that may not come again. A pit stop to sample mango soaked in vinegar, salt, and sugar, prepared that morning by guide Enrico, was refreshing. I yearned for more. He gave me the remaining liquid. It was yummy but not as the best litchi I recently had at Thaba Eco. More of the same, please, my yumminess! Perhaps, when one is not driving, er, canoeing in this peaceful, quiet paradise, they may consider adding a touch of gin. We stopped for homemade cake and refreshments on the nearby island. Sea Kayaking on the return trip with Hermina saw us encounter strong currents that strived to push us further from shore; however, we managed to get to land. For a non-swimmer, I was chuffed at having enjoyed kayaking in Mauritius without any drama. Thank God. The experience is available for around R1100 per person. Afterwards, we headed to a sumptuous lunch at Le Château de Labourdonnais before overnighting at Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa at Coastal Road, Pointe Aux Piments. This large resort is a favourite haunt of South African families, who come for the pristine beaches, the many things to do for children and adults, and the divine Italianfood served overlooking the beach - family vibes, but they cater for the romantics. Even newfound friends like us were soaked in the atmosphere. The next day, we were off to GrandBaie seaside village on a full-day Catamaran excursion on the East Coast Croisieres Australes to the islands in the North - Island Gabriel and Plate Island. The cosmopolitan faces on the vessel always remind one of the joys of travel, where you mingle with people of different tongues. The golden oldies. The young and in love. The bored going through the oceans. The adventurous. Wanting a thrill. The beauty. With their henpecking mom. They're all on board with different suntan lotions for different folks. Video Player is loading. 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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ One of the many activities on offer at the 136-room dwelling is a boat cruise, and while on land, there's plenty to do. Image: Supplied A gentle start turned awry as the rough waves pounded the catamaran, leaving all of us drenched. We stopped at Gabriel Island to swim. The rocks on the beach were not my friend's. I chose to lie in the sun and get 40 winks from too many deadline-driven late nights. Lunch on the vessel was served with chicken, sausage, fish, and a potato salad. A little rum and Coke to smooth the return journey hit the spot. As the afternoon beckoned, we arrived at Sunset Boulevard in Grand Baie, concluding the scenic catamaran cruise. For a small island, reportedly 65 kilometres from one side to another, everywhere you go is said to require at least an hour. The drive to Victoria seemed quicker. We were given time to chill and put on some make-up before dinner at a seafood platter for one at L'Horizon at Victoria Hotel on the West Coast. Not a seafood lover, though it was scrumptious. The Victoria Hotel is known for its beautiful sandy beach, spacious rooms and spectacular sunsets that are a highlight of the west coast. One cute little feature in the room is the addition of a three-pin South African wall plug for those who want to charge their laptop. Reportedly, this Beachcomber resort is popular among South Africans, with 60 per cent of occupants from Mzansi. More than 100 000 South Africans visit the island annually. The Victoria Hotel boasts a breathtaking view. Image: Supplied Life's a beach? We also stayed at Ocean's Creek, a cosy 4-star hotel named after the lower reaches of the Tombeau River that meet the Indian Ocean. The hotel enjoys easy access to sandy beaches with open views of iridescent sunsets over the teal-blue bay. Activities galore - thrills and adventures await the hotel's youngest visitors at the generous kids' club for indoor and outdoor entertainment. My room overlooked the pool. On the bedside table was a notepad with the inscription: You are exactly where you are meant to be. Holidaygoers, mainly from India, with many from South Africa and Europe, danced until 11pm, nightly. The place was buzzing. Ocean's Creek is co-owned by a Bollywood film star who once starred with the legendary Amitabh Bachchan. Recent guests included the South African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), which comprises 21 African Member States promoting regional integration. I can't imagine delegates spending too much time conferencing in paradise. What would they learn when VitaminSunshine is so compelling? Up next was the quirky C Mauritius, our destination. It has much to write about, especially the vibrant host Catherine Barbe, who goes the extra mile to make guests' stays memorable: Sega dancing, kite-flying, and picnics on the beach are just some of the many highlights. The Mauritian-Creole buffet was a delight. They also offer sushi in the restaurant adjoining the pool with abundant sea views. If you miss dinner, there's a self-service takeaway where you can get cool drinks and meals. What more can one ask for in paradise? Swimming lessons and a butler?
