President Wavel Ramkalawan accompanied by members of the Seychelles diplomatic community returned from a two-day expedition to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Aldabra Atoll from 9 to10 April. Also present was the First Lady, Mrs Linda Ramkalawan, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde, and the Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, Mr Flavien Jourbert.
The delegation was welcomed on the atoll by the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Island Foundation (SIF), Dr Frauke Dogley. Upon arrival on Friday, the delegation took part in a lagoon boat cruise where they had the opportunity to experience the unique scenery of Aldabra.
On the main day of the expedition, on Saturday the Presidential delegation guided by the SIF Team toured of the Aldabra research station, viewed remains of the old settlement and explored other key sites. Through the tour, the delegation had the opportunity to view first hand elements of the flora and fauna; primarily plants, the giant tortoises in their natural environment as well as the various species of land birds, which are only occurring on the atoll.
During a special presentation, the SIF Team on Aldabra also had the opportunity to showcase what the Foundation has been engaged in for the past 40 years, highlighting critical environmental projects that SIF will require global partnerships in order to continue implementing.
In line with the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Aldabra research station on 30th June this year, the President and diplomats were not only briefed on the various ongoing research and conservation programmes on the island but also the way forward for Aldabra. Other areas of discussion also included specialized technical support, capacity building requirements and the implementation of strict biosecurity procedures to minimize the threats of invasive species. Other threats such as climate change, marine debris, pollution as well as the lack of financial resources were also raised. The presence of the diplomatic corps allowed for fruitful discussions on role the diplomatic community can play in further supporting their research and conservation efforts.
Aldabra Atoll, is one of the Republic of Seychelles southernmost islands, approximately 1065km south west of the main Seychelles island Mahe, 420 km northwest of Madagascar and -700 km from the East African coast. Aldabra is the world’s largest raised coral atoll (34 x 14.5km; total area = 346 km2 including lagoon and channels) and its geographical isolation, rough terrain and scarcity of fresh water have deterred large human populations from settling.
Aldabra is an outstanding example of a coral atoll and offers a biological and ecological reference point for many species and habitats as it is significantly less disturbed than other atolls in the Indian Ocean and elsewhere in the world.
Prior to departing the Aldabra Atoll on Sunday morning, the President who is also the Patron of SIF commended the SIF Management and Team for the exceptional work they are doing to maintain the pristine ecosystem of Aldabra. He further pledged and reiterated the Government’s commitment to further supporting the vision of the foundation.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the SIF Team for the invaluable work you are all doing under the guidance of Dr. Dogley. As Government we are here to support your efforts and remain committed to ensuring Aldabra and all other parts of our territory that are under conservation are protected” said President Ramkalawan.
Members of delegations were highly impressed by the various meaningful environment protection programmes that are not only transforming nature conservation on Aldabra and Seychelles but recognized on a worldwide platform in an effort to save the planet and humanity.
On the third day of the expedition, President Ramkalawan and delegation inaugurated the PV Solar Farms on Astove and Farquhar and toured Desroches island.