Press Relations in Mauritius: Leveraging an Open and Structured Media Landscape

Introduction

Mauritius offers a free, pluralistic, and structured media environment — an ideal setting for impactful communication campaigns.
This guide highlights the local media landscape, key outlets, and best practices to help you succeed with press relations in this strategic Indian Ocean island nation.

1. Mauritius at a Glance

• Capital: Port Louis

• Population: ~2 million

• Official Language: English

• Languages commonly used in media: French and Creole

• Surface area: 2,040 km²

• Independence: 1968 (former French and British colony)

• Political context: Stable democracy, business-friendly and supportive of free expression

2. Press Freedom and Media Environment

• Constitution: Guarantees press freedom, generally respected

• Rich media landscape: Established print press, radio, and television

• Active role of the press: Central in public debates and social issues

• Broadcast media: Public channels dominate, but diversity is growing

• Internet: Free and accessible, with growing online and digital media presence

Key takeaway: In Mauritius, print media remains highly influential, while digital is rapidly gaining ground.

3. Key Media Outlets in Mauritius

Print Press

• L’Express – Influential daily (La Sentinelle)

• Le Mauricien – Historic reference (Le Mauricien Ltd)

• L’Eco Austral – Business and economic focus

• 24 Heures Info – Real-time news updates

• 5 Plus Dimanche – Popular weekly

Radio

• Radio Plus – Nationwide audience leader

• Top FM – Known for its debates

• Radio One R1 – National coverage

• Radio Moris – Music and local culture

• MBC Best FM – Public channel

Television

• MBC Sat, MBC 4 Digital – Public channels

• Ciné 12, BTV Mauritius, Senn Kreol – Complementary offerings

4. Specificities of Press Relations in Mauritius

• Print media dominance: Two major publishing groups (La Sentinelle, Le Mauricien Ltd)

• Public broadcast: MBC as a central player

• Journalistic expectations: Clear, contextualized content adapted to local issues

• Strategic planning: Targeting the right outlets and timings (weekends, morning radio shows)

• Digital growth: Collaborations with online media, influencers, and multimedia content creation

5. Tips for Successful PR Campaigns in Mauritius

• Prioritize print media for credibility and impact

• Schedule press releases according to local editorial rhythms

• Collaborate with radio stations to reach diverse audiences

• Don’t overlook digital media and local influencers

• Adapt messages to Mauritian cultural sensitivities

Conclusion

Mauritius offers a unique blend of press freedom, professional journalism, and digital openness.
A successful PR strategy requires a balanced mix of print, radio, and digital, aligned with the main actors and local media habits.