25 May 2026 | .
On the occasion of Africa Day 2026, President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, joined the continent in commemorating the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, now the African Union, while reaffirming a shared vision of an Africa united in purpose, dignity and destiny. The President noted that as Africa reflects on its history and shapes its future, there remains a collective responsibility to confront the past with honesty, honour historical truth, and build a future grounded in justice, unity and shared progress.
For Seychelles, the President noted, this reflection carries particular significance as the nation marks the 50th Anniversary of Independence. He observed that Seychelles’ national journey is deeply rooted in the African experience, shaped by hardship, resilience and transformation. Seychelles’ African heritage continues to live on in the nation’s language, traditions, music and spirit, including through the Moutya, a powerful expression of resistance, identity and community now inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
President Herminie also recalled that Seychelles commemorated earlier this year marking the abolition of slavery day, noting the importance of remembering those affected by one of history’s greatest injustices and honouring the humanity of those who endured it. He stated that preserving this collective memory also affirms the enduring contribution of African peoples to Seychelles identity and development.
At a time of geopolitical tension, economic uncertainty and increasingly complex global challenges, President Herminie emphasised that African unity remains essential to safeguarding the continents future. Referring to this year's African Union theme, "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063," the President highlighted the urgent need to protect one of Africa's most precious resources: water. He noted that, as a Small Island Developing State, Seychelles understands the importance of protecting our oceans, freshwater resources and ecosystems from climate change, and reaffirmed Seychelles committed to working alongside fellow African nations to advance climate resilience, ocean sustainability and inclusive development across the continent
As Seychelles marks its Golden Jubilee of Independence, President Herminie reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the African Unions Vision of “The Africa We Want”-, an Africa united in confidence and purpose, and shared determination to leave a stronger continent for future generations. .
Africa’s story continues to unfold, and Seychelles remains committed to helping to shape its future
