Continuing his weekly visits to institutions, President Danny Faure visited the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine and the Ministry of Family Affairs this morning.

The President’s visit began at the Secretariat of the Minister of Family Affairs, where he was welcomed by the Minister, Ms Mitcy Larue, at Botanical House, Mont Fleuri.

The delegation then proceeded to the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine in the same building, where the President was welcomed by the Minister, Mr Didier Dogley. President Faure was given a tour of the Seychelles Tourism Board by the Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Sherin Francis, whereby he had the chance to meet the staff and discuss existing challenges.

President Faure then visited key sections under the Department of Tourism, including Support Services, Risk Management Office, Policy and Research, Tourism Inspection Unit and Monitoring, Information Technology and Human resource development.

The President also visited the Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine Department, under the leadership of Principal Secretary, Mr Garry Albert.

Following his visit, the President chaired a meeting with Minister Dogley and his management team, whereby the Principal of the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA), Mr Flavien Joubert was also present. They briefed the President on the various departments and shared with him their challenges.

President Faure commended the staff for the excellent work that they are doing and pledged the Government’s full support.

“I would like to congratulate the team here, as tourism is doing very well. I am happy that you have policy analysts in addition to people in marketing, which must continue. It is important to know why exactly tourism is doing well, in order to improve. I also came across young staff during the tour, who represent the future. It is important to expose them and allow them to learn from those that have been here for many years,” said the President.

The President and his delegation then proceeded to Unity House, where he visited the secretariat of the Department of Family Affairs, under the responsibility of Mrs Marie-Josée Bonne.

He also visited the Department of Social Affairs, where he was given a guided tour of the premises by Principal Secretary, Mrs Linda William-Melanie.

During his tour, he was briefed on the status of the different sections and the staff discussed existing challenges as well as the progress that has been made.

President Faure then met with the Minister and her senior management staff. He conveyed his appreciation to the long-serving staff and thanked them for their many years of hard work.

He emphasised the importance of stability in the social services and to have respect for the social workers, who are on the front line in dealing with the social ills in the country today. He also stressed on the need for an effective communication plan in order to keep citizens informed. The President also encouraged them to build alliances with other bodies such the Seychelles Interfaith Council (SIFCO), and reinforce the role of families.

More photos of the visit can be viewed on the following link: https://web.facebook.com/StateHouseSey/photos/pcb.1779616038773006/1779612438773366/?type=3&theater