He saluted Seychellois women for their historical role in the struggle for independence, for deepening democracy, fostering mutual respect and promoting peace, tolerance and unity.

"Your accomplishment is the result of your own freedom, courage and choice in bringing about human development," he said.

"Your joy is what Seychelles stands for today, is today, and what our people have achieved as a nation."

Chairperson of the IWD organising committee Ambassador Marie-Pierre Lloyd said this day is for thanksgiving and praise for all the progress women have made, and are still making, in society and to reflect on what should be seen in the next 100 years.

She said Air Seychelles is a perfect example of how women have risen and of what they have achieved as the airline was flying an all-female crew yesterday to mark the day.

However, there are still many women in the world who are not enjoying their basic human rights as their emancipation is jeopardised by challenges such as conflict, war and poverty.

Mrs Lloyd said women in Seychelles have long been the pillars of society, adding that the Hall of Fame is the beginning of what is hoped will be an annual event to recognise women from different walks of life who have touched the lives of many people.

Work has started to profile the first 20 of these women, and people are being invited to forward other nominations.

Mrs Lloyd called on every citizen to reflect on the challenges women are facing, not only in Seychelles but in other countries.

She said women need to be more involved in decision and policy making so as to deal with women's issues in a wider perspective.

Women need to be involved at community level to find sustainable solutions to address the challenges, she added, urging them to claim their power as women.

"We have to inculcate in our children the values needed so that our families are resilient and strong in the face of all the challenges," she said.

Mrs Lloyd also shared her vision for Seychelles for 2020 and beyond.

"My vision is to see men and women live in harmony, respecting each other's differences and human rights," she said.

During the launch, several artists performed songs and poems all related to the roles and value of women.

As part of activities for the day, special attention was paid to women who have contributed significantly to the development of the arts in Seychelles, promoting their culture on both the national and international front.

An exhibition was mounted at the Carrefour des Arts in their honour to showcase their artwork, entitled Women in Art: Seychelles 1830-1987.