Malta Getting €2 Million Investment To Safeguard Our Seas

Feb 20 2025

The Environment Ministry and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) have launched a €2.01 million EU co-financed initiative, Marine Conservation – An Inclusive Approach to Managing Marine Resources, aimed at improving Malta’s marine environment for the benefit of families, fishers, and local communities.

Minister for the Environment and Energy Miriam Dalli emphasised the project’s dual focus on environmental protection and community well-being. “By safeguarding marine habitats and species, we are securing livelihoods dependent on fishing and tourism while ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy our seas,” she stated.

The project will implement targeted measures and enhance community engagement to preserve Malta’s marine heritage. This includes improving water quality, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable fisheries.

Funded under the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 2021-2027, the project is being carried out in collaboration with multiple entities, including the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Transport Malta, Ambjent Malta, BirdLife Malta, and Nature Trust Malta.

Key areas of focus include balancing economic and recreational marine activities, restoring damaged habitats, engaging stakeholders in conservation efforts, enhancing knowledge and resources for marine protection, and fostering responsible environmental practices.

ERA CEO Kevin Mercieca highlighted the project’s long-term vision, stressing the importance of sustainable marine management that meets both societal and environmental needs.

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Have A Sweet Tooth? Festa Ħelu Is The Place For You!

Feb 20 2025

Sunday February 23rd is the day all those with a sweet tooth can head down to Kalkara for a feast centred all around sweets!

Taking place in front of Villa Bighi from 9am to 1pm, and with free park and ride, Festa Helu il-Kalkara will be much more than just a celebration of sweet treats (even though that’s technically already enough!)

There will be għana, science shows by the Esplora team, as well as musical acts!

Tikka Banda will in fact begin a march from Misraħ l-Arċisqof Gonzi, entertaining you along the way! And at 11:45? Fabrizio Faniello will be attending to bring more musical entertainment.

A free bus shuttle will also be provided, leaving from l-Esplora at 9:15am, 10am, 10:45am, 11:30am, 12:15pm and 1pm.

Are you attending?

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Malta Carnival 2025 Program Officially Launched

Feb 20 2025

The official program for the Malta Carnival 2025 has been launched. This year, the main events will take place in Valletta and Floriana between February 28 and March 4.

As always, the Hamrun Carnival will also feature the traditional band parade along St. Joseph High Street on February 23.

The Malta Carnival attracts thousands of locals and visitors each year, many traveling specifically for this traditional celebration. Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici emphasised the festival’s continued growth, crediting the dedication of those working behind the scenes.

He highlighted the strong collaboration between government entities, NGOs, and volunteers, ensuring a safe and spectacular celebration.

This year, 42 local councils across Malta and Gozo will organise various carnival-related activities, including parades, performances, and traditional food festivals, thanks to funding from the Local Government Division.

The official program will feature 18 competitive dance companies, 14 triumphal floats, three company floats, the King Carnival float, five installations, and a giant masquerade.

Festivals Malta Chairman Aaron Zahra noted the significant improvements in quality in recent years and promised high-level events this year. CEO Frans Agius echoed this sentiment, recognising the immense effort required to plan and execute the carnival successfully.

Artistic Director Jason Busuttil highlighted the festival’s innovation and bright future, with increased investment in participants and local councils. The event is organised by Festivals Malta with support from the Ministry for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government.

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January 2025 Was 1.6°C Hotter Than The Climatic Norm

Feb 20 2025

In a press release issued by the Meteorological Office of Malta, details were provided on January’s above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall.

January began the new year with above-average temperatures and drier-than-usual conditions. The average temperature for the month stood at 14.5°C, which was 1.6°C higher than the climatic norm.

The highest temperature of the month was recorded on January 27, reaching 19.4°C. Despite the relatively warm conditions, the record for the highest January temperature remains 25.8°C, recorded in 2021.

Meanwhile, the coldest night occurred on January 16, when temperatures dipped to 7.2°C. However, the coldest January temperature on record remains 1.4°C, measured in 1981.

Throughout the month, the Meteorological Office recorded 69.2 mm of rainfall, 10.1 mm below the monthly average. Two thunderstorms were recorded, two fewer than the usual monthly average.

The average wind speed for the month was in line with the climatic norm of 8.9 knots. The windiest day was January 17, when gale-force winds were recorded.

January 4 and January 17 were the darkest days of the month, with less than an hour of sunshine recorded. In contrast, the brightest day of the month was January 27, with 8.9 hours of sunshine.

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