This morning, President Wavel Ramkalawan, alongside Shella Mohideen, Chairperson of the Board of the Seychelles Pension Fund, and Nisreen Abdul Majid, CEO, had the honour of laying the foundation stone for the new Pirates Arms building in Victoria.

During the ceremony, President Ramkalawan and other distinguished guests were presented with a detailed showcase of the building’s concept and architectural design, with each colour scheme thoughtfully reflecting the nation's patriotic values.

In his address, President Ramkalawan expressed his support for the new development, noting that the Pirates Arms site holds deep historical significance. He fondly referred to the old Pirates Arms as the "heartbeat of Victoria" and extended his best wishes for the revitalization of the city’s centre.

CEO Nisreen Abdul Majid underscored the historical importance of the building, highlighting its distinctive Creole architecture and its central role in the life of Victoria. She emphasized that the new structure would embody the shared values, vision, and determination of the people of Seychelles.

"As we lay this foundation stone today, let us not only celebrate the beginning of this construction but also reflect on the endless possibilities it holds for the future. May this building stand strong as a beacon of progress, growth, and inspiration for generations to come," she stated.

Echoing Abdul Majid’s sentiments, Mrs. Mohideen, the Board Chairperson, spoke of the symbolic significance of the new building for the people of Seychelles. "This construction symbolizes development based on solid foundation, social development that is in the best interest of the people, and represents teamwork and working for the greater good of the country," she explained.

The original Pirates Arms, built in 1938 and serving a variety of business purposes over the years, was purchased by the Seychelles Pension Fund in 2006 and demolished in 2016. Construction of the new five-storey complex, which is already underway, will feature a basement parking facility, two restaurants and bars, food courts, a conference room, office spaces, shops, and a hotel. Mahé Design and Build has been contracted to manage the construction.

The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Finance Minister Naadir Hassan, Internal Affairs Minister Errol Fonseka, Land and Housing Minister Billy Rangasamy, Local Government Minister Rose Marie Hoareau, members of the Seychelles Pension Fund Board, and staff of the Seychelles Pension Fund.