Street Vendors: Port-Louis in Night Market Mode
The government announced on Friday its decision to operate a "night market" during the festive season in December. This will allow street vendors to temporarily engage in their activities between December 12, 2025, and January 11, 2026. The 'Local Government (Fees) (Temporary Provisions) Regulations 2025' will be enacted for this purpose. This measure has been positively received by the street vendors.
This decision follows the work of an inter-ministerial committee chaired by the Minister of Housing and Lands, which brought together several institutional stakeholders, including ministers and MPs from constituencies 2 and 3. Their goal was to find a balance between the economic activity of the festive period and the maintenance of order. After several meetings, a plan was defined to allow street vendors to operate safely, without disrupting the normal activities of other traders during the day.
A Breath of Fresh Air for Thousands of Families
For many street vendors, the end-of-year season represents a crucial period. It is often the opportunity to generate a significant portion of their annual income and offer their loved ones a better start to the new year. By allowing them to operate for a modest daily fee – ranging from Rs150 to Rs500 – the authorities acknowledge the social and economic realities of these workers while ensuring a legal and orderly framework.
This temporary opening benefits not only the street vendors but also revives the festive spirit, animates the streets, and offers the public more choices and convenience for shopping. It fosters a sense of community and sharing that is typically Mauritian, reinforced by the presence of these small businesses that are an integral part of our cultural heritage.
The authorities have identified accessible and suitable locations to host the street vendors. These areas will be equipped with essential amenities: lighting, security, measures against electrical or fire hazards, sanitation facilities, and daily cleaning services. Vendors will need to set up uniform structures like gazebos, allowing them to display their products in dignified and aesthetic conditions.
Port-Louis: A Night Market to Energize the Capital
The municipality of Port-Louis, aware of the symbolic and attractive nature of the capital, will set up a night market on Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Street from December 12, 2025, to January 5, 2026, from 6 PM to 1 AM. Stalls will be set up along the street, transforming the heart of the city into a true festive circuit. Traffic will be regulated, and parking will be prohibited along this main road to ensure smooth flow and safety.
This "night market" promises to become a must-visit destination for year-end outings, bringing together families, visitors, craft enthusiasts, and street food lovers. The authorities will soon publish details regarding the terms and allocated locations, ensuring clear and transparent communication with both street vendors and the public.
This government initiative illustrates a human and balanced approach, acknowledging the struggles of street vendors. Amid the festive hustle and bustle, this measure brings hope, stability, and opportunity to those who need it most – while enriching the festive experience for the entire population. A wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of solidarity that characterizes Mauritius so well.
MPs Juman and Aumeer Welcome the Cabinet's Decision
The government's decision to allow a night market in Port-Louis during the festive season has been positively received among local political actors.
Ehsan Juman, involved in following the matter, highlights the collaborative efforts made with residents and elected officials from constituencies 2 and 3. He mentioned that he asked the Prime Minister three weeks ago to reconsider the closure of Desforges Street to street vendors, reminding that last year they were able to operate freely. "Today, I am pleased that the Cabinet has decided to open Desforges Street for a Night Market from December 12 to January 5, allowing businesses to operate, pedestrians to move, and vehicles to pass," he concluded, thanking the inter-ministerial committee for its work.
Farhad Aumeer, another MP engaged in the matter, expressed that he is "very satisfied that the Prime Minister and the Cabinet have taken into account my request regarding street vendors during the Christmas and New Year festivities." He emphasized the need for "discipline, respect, and cleanliness," adding that he has requested police support to ensure order and traffic flow "without excessive zeal."
