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President Dr. Patrick Herminie Holds Talks with Island Conservation Society on the Future of Seychelles’ Islands, Including Assumption Island
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President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, today received a courtesy call at State House from representatives of the Island Conservation Society (ICS), as the organisation celebrates 25 years of dedicated conservation work in Seychelles.
The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Society, Mr. Adrian Skerrett, reflected on a quarter-century of achievement, tracing ICS's journey from its early beginnings to its current standing as a trusted national partner in environmental stewardship. The meeting was held in the presence of the Minister for Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, Ms. Marie-May Jérémie.
Discussions centred on ICS's ongoing conservation programmes, including island restoration, biodiversity protection and community engagement initiatives. The delegation also briefed the President on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) undertaken for Assumption Island, underscoring the value of rigorous scientific analysis and careful assessment in informing sustainable development decisions.
The meeting further noted the establishment of an Inter-Sectoral Environmental Task Force by the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, tasked with coordinating urgent environmental actions for Assumption Island and addressing related matters concerning Aldabra. The Task Force will be chaired by Minister Jérémie, with Dr. Nirmal Shah, Special Advisor in the President's Office, serving as Deputy Chair. Its mandate includes undertaking comprehensive biodiversity assessment and strengthening biosecurity planning and measures.
Minister Jérémie noted that the Islands Development Company, the Seychelles Islands Foundation, the Planning Authority, the Principal Secretary for Lands, the Biosecurity authorities, and other relevant agencies and partners — including ICD — will also be invited to participate in the task force.
Funding challenges affecting conservation efforts across different islands were also discussed, alongside the need to attract and retain qualified conservation professionals to support research and long-term environmental monitoring.
ICS currently employs 40 staff members, the majority of whom are engaged in conservation and monitoring activities across the outer islands. A significant proportion of these staff are expatriates. The organisation is governed by a Board of Trustees who volunteer their time and expertise.
Despite its achievements, ICS continues to face challenges related to the shortage of qualified personnel and its reliance on external expertise to sustain conservation work on the islands.
President Herminie congratulated the Island Conservation Society on its 25th anniversary, commending its professionalism, consistency and enduring commitment to safeguarding Seychelles' natural heritage. He then reaffirmed Government's commitment to continued collaboration with civil society organisations in advancing the country's environmental protection and sustainability agenda.
Founded in 2001, the Island Conservation Society (ICS) spearheads island conservation in Seychelles through science, education, and community engagement. The organisation focuses on the conservation and restoration of island ecosystems, the sustainable development of islands, and raising awareness of their vulnerability and critical role in global biodiversity. ICS currently operates programmes on eight islands, implementing key initiatives such as invasive species eradication, species reintroductions, and support for national conservation policies.
Other members of the ICS delegation included Mr. Pat Mathiot, Member of Council and Board of Trustees, Mr. Norman Weber, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jean-Paul D'Offay, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Greg Berke, Director of Science and Conservation, and Ms. Emma Mederic, Senior Science and Conservation Officer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.Seychelles: President Herminie Receives Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) Secretary General at State House
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The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, received Mr. André Ciseau, Secretary General of the Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA), for a courtesy call at State House,Tuesday morning.
President Herminie extended a warm welcome to Mr. Ciseau and commended PMAESA for its valuable role in facilitating knowledge exchange and disseminating comprehensive information on port operations across Anglophone countries in the Eastern and Southern African region. He highlighted the Association's contribution to strengthening regional collaboration and enhancing best practices in port management.
The President further expressed pride in seeing Seychellois professionals assuming leadership positions within international organisations, noting that such representation significantly enhances Seychelles visibility and standing on the global stage.
During the meeting, Mr. Ciseau briefed the President on PMAESA's core mandate and its ongoing initiatives aimed at supporting the development of efficient, competitive, and sustainable ports within the region. He underscored the importance of Seychelles active participation in the Association and outlined the tangible benefits this engagement brings to the country's maritime and port sector.
In an interview with the local press following the meeting, Mr. Ciseau emphasised that Seychelles active presence within PMAESA is of great importance, particularly as port operations constitute a key pillar of the country's economic development.
The courtesy call reaffirmed the strong partnership between Seychelles and PMAESA, and underscored the nation's continued commitment to regional cooperation in port management and maritime development.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.Seychelles: President Herminie Attends the Ministry of Local Government & Inner Islands (MLGII) 2025 End-of-Year Award Ceremony
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The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, attended the Ministry of Local Government & Inner Islands (MLGII) End-of-Year Award Ceremony held yesterday at Beau Vallon Bay Resort. The President was accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Véronique Herminie. Also in attendance were the Vice-President, Mr. Sebastien Pillay, and Mrs. Lina Pillay.
This annual ceremony recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements and exemplary service across the Ministry and District Administrations throughout the year 2025.
The ceremony opened with a poignant memorial video honoring staff members who have passed away, followed by an inspiring performance by the MLGII Choir, which set both a reflective and celebratory tone for the evening.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards across six categories, recognizing excellence throughout the District Administrations. Grand Anse Praslin District received the award for Most Environment-Friendly District Administration, while St. Louis District was honored for Excellence in Community Projects Implementation. Anse Boileau District distinguished itself by winning both the Outstanding District Administration in Customer Care and the Excellence in Initiative Development awards. The Outstanding District Partnership Award was presented to Baie Ste Anne Praslin, and Bel Air District earned recognition for Excellence in Community Engagement. Port Glaud District claimed the Best Festive District Presentation award.
The evening's most prestigious honor, the Best Overall District for 2025, was awarded to Anse Boileau District.
In her address, Minister of Local Government and Inner Islands, Ms. Eveline Rose commended the dedication and commitment demonstrated by the Ministry's team, she expressed confidence in their capability and readiness to serve the nation effectively.
Addressing the year ahead, the Minister acknowledged that 2026 would present its share of challenges, but emphasized the Ministry's collective determination to meet them head-on and deliver results of the highest standard. She called upon all staff to remain disciplined, focused, and hardworking in their efforts to enhance the lives of citizens across all communities, ensuring that residents feel pride and satisfaction in the services provided to them.
The event was also attended by Mrs. Shella Mohideen, Chief Secretary of the Public Service Bureau; Mr. Daniel Frichot, Special Advisor to the Minister of Local Government; Mrs. Vicky Van Der Westhusien, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government; and Mr. Denis Antat, Principal Secretary of Inner Islands.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative group photo and dinner, providing attendees an opportunity to celebrate their collective achievements.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.Seychelles and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Presidents Commit to Deepened Bilateral Ties
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Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, met today with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, on his first international mission since assuming office.
The official visit, extended at the invitation of the UAE President, marks a significant step in strengthening the robust friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The meeting served to formally establish a strong personal connection between the two leaders and reaffirm their mutual interest in elevating the bilateral partnership.
Key Discussion Points and Mutual Commitments
President Herminie extended his personal congratulations and the sincere best wishes of the Government and people of Seychelles to His Highness, the Government, and the people of the UAE on the occasion of their 54th National Day.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan provided an overview of the UAE's remarkable transformation from its foundational years into a modern, advanced nation, attributing this success to the determined vision of its founding fathers.
President Herminie conveyed the profound appreciation and gratitude of Seychelles for the UAE's decades-long support in the national development of the islands. This vital cooperation spans critical sectors including:
* Infrastructure Development
* Renewable Energy
* Health and Education
* Maritime Security
These contributions have yielded lasting and meaningful benefits for the people of Seychelles.
Future Cooperation
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE's steadfast commitment to continuing collaboration with Seychelles, supporting the ambitious goals of the new administration. The leaders specifically discussed furthering cooperation in the following priority areas:
* Nation Building
* Education
* Maritime Security
* Technological Development
The meeting concluded with both leaders wholeheartedly reaffirming their commitment to commencing a new chapter in Seychelles-UAE relations. They pledged to advance cooperation to new heights, building upon a shared history of close collaboration and enduring friendship for the mutual prosperity of both nations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.Vice President Pillay to Lead Seychelles Delegation at 7th African Union-European Union (AU-EU) Summit in Angola
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Mr. Sebastien Pillay, Vice President of the Republic of Seychelles, will lead the Seychelles delegation to the 7th African Union-European Union Summit taking place in Luanda, Angola, from 24th to 25th November 2025.
The Vice President departed Seychelles on Saturday, 22nd November 2025, for Angola to participate in this important continental gathering, where he will engage in Thematic Session I: "Peace, Security, Governance and Multilateralism," representing Seychelles' interests and contributing to crucial discussions on continental cooperation.
The 7th AU-EU Summit brings together African and European leaders to strengthen partnerships and address key challenges affecting both continents, including security, governance, and multilateral cooperation.
Vice President Pillay is being accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Ambassador Conrad Mederic, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Seychelles to the African Union, Mrs. Patricia Ilunga, Ambassador of Seychelles in Addis Ababa, and members of the Foreign Affairs Department.
Vice President Pillay's participation underscores Seychelles commitment to regional and international cooperation and its active engagement in continental dialogue on matters of peace, security, and multilateral governance.
The Vice President is expected to return to Seychelles on Friday, 28th November 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.Three Officers Commissioned as Second Lieutenants in Seychelles Defence Forces
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President Dr. Patrick Herminie, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces, alongside Major General Michael Rosette, presided over the commissioning of three service personnel as Second Lieutenants in the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF).
The formal ceremony, held at State House this morning, saw Second Lieutenant Chakira Rose, Second Lieutenant Dominique Andimignon, and Second Lieutenant Kenneth Evenor receive their rank slides and certificates, marking their elevation to commissioned officer status within the Defence Forces.
Second Lieutenant Rose and Second Lieutenant Andimignon are presently attached to the Seychelles Defence Headquarters at Bel Eau. Both officers have completed extensive training programs locally and internationally, including a one-year Officer Cadet course in India. Second Lieutenant Evenor, who brings considerable local and international military experience to his new role, is currently attached to the Presidential Security Unit.
President Herminie extended his congratulations to the newly commissioned officers, wishing them success in their professional duties and personal endeavors.
Speaking to local media following the ceremony, 2Lt Andimignon described the training as intense yet rewarding. "This achievement is the result of hard work, continuous support, and determination. I am committed to pursuing my career and reaching further milestones as a military officer," he stated.
2Lt Rose expressed profound satisfaction with her accomplishment, attributing her success to unwavering determination and willpower. "With continued guidance and dedication, I am confident of achieving greater heights in my military career," she remarked.
The commissioning of these three officers represents an important step in strengthening the leadership capacity of the Seychelles Defence Forces. Their appointments reflect the nation's continued commitment to developing qualified and competent military leadership to enhance the Seychelles' defense capabilities.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officials, including Brigadier General Jean Atala, Chief of Staff; Colonel Michael Hollanda; Lieutenant Colonel Achille Mondon; and Captain Steve Asba.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.