L'express, a Mauritian newspaper, has partnered with the Motor Racing Club (MRC) to launch a free road safety magazine called "En route pour la sécurité routière". The magazine was launched on November 1, 2026, at the 27th Ronde Toyota event, where drivers were returning their cars to the parc fermé at Bagatelle. The magazine aims to promote road safety awareness and will be distributed free of charge across the island, with the first issue available as a supplement to L'express on Tuesday, November 3.
The magazine's launch coincides with a growing concern about road safety in Mauritius. According to the Minister of Land Transport, Osman Mahomed, over 110 people have lost their lives on the island's roads so far this year. The minister praised the initiative, saying it is a valuable tool for raising awareness and promoting education on road safety. He also noted that the government has taken steps to amend the law to make road safety regulations stricter.
The magazine's editor, Michel Alphonse, stated that the publication will not only be available at newsstands but also in schools, where future drivers will be able to access it. This approach aligns with the message of Ashok Matar, a former policeman with 41 years of experience, who emphasized the importance of road safety education. Matar noted that the road environment is changing, and drivers are losing their reflexes, making it essential to promote vigilance and information, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.
The MRC's Vice-President, Craig Grace, highlighted the importance of road safety in motorsports, citing the strict safety rules and code of conduct that govern rally racing. The Ronde Toyota event, which took place over two days, was a fitting backdrop for the magazine's launch. The event will conclude on November 1, 2026, with the crowning of the champion.
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including Osman Mahomed, Areff Salauroo, CEO of the La Sentinelle group, and Dona Marimootoo, Sales Executive. The magazine is part of a broader effort to promote road safety in Mauritius, where road accidents have become a significant concern. The government has taken steps to address the issue, including amending the law to make regulations stricter.
Ashok Matar also spoke about the need for a return to a points-based driving license system, which he believes will help to reduce reckless driving. He expressed concern about the increasing aggression on the roads, particularly during peak hours, and the lack of courtesy among drivers. Matar emphasized that children are key ambassadors for road safety and should be involved in promoting safe driving practices.
The CEO of the La Sentinelle group, Areff Salauroo, thanked the Minister of Land Transport, the teams involved, and the sponsors for their support in promoting road safety. He noted that the passion for motorsports is shared by many Mauritians and that the initiative aims to provide a safer environment for rally racing. The magazine is expected to contribute to a reduction in road accidents and promote a culture of road safety in Mauritius.
Key points
- The magazine "En route pour la sécurité routière" will be distributed free of charge across the island.
- Over 110 people have lost their lives on Mauritian roads so far this year.
- The magazine aims to promote road safety awareness and education, particularly among vulnerable groups.
