President Dr Patrick Herminie chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday 15th March, during which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.
Cabinet approved the adoption of a formal policy framework for the protection and evacuation of Seychellois nationals abroad in crisis situations. The framework includes a balanced, voluntary assisted evacuation approach with a conditional duty of care to ensure targeted support to vulnerable individuals while maintaining fiscal and operational sustainability.
Cabinet approved the proposed measures to support vulnerable households in response to the potential impacts of the situation in the Middle East. The Agency for Social Protection will put in place a temporary assistance scheme to implement the measures. Cabinet also endorsed the development of a clear and structured framework to better prepare for and respond to similar crises in the future.
Cabinet approved amendment to the Drugs Enforcement Agency Seychelles Bill, 2026, for the inclusion of Section 10 to provide a clear legal framework for the disposal of seized drugs and vessels in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Seychelles. The decision reflects Cabinet’s agreement that such a measure is necessary to address operational, logistical, and security challenges associated with transporting and storing large drug consignments and seized vessels, while enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and aligning with existing Government policy and international enforcement practices.
Cabinet approved the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation Bill, 2026. The new legal framework establishes an independent, editorially autonomous and accountable Corporation aligned with public service principles. Cabinet also approved the composition and appointment process of a seven-member Board; the process for appointing the Chief Executive Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, and the establishment of an Internal Complaints Unit to address minor issues while maintaining the oversight role of the Seychelles Media Commission.
Cabinet approved the proposed amendments to the Commission for the Enforcement, Implementation and Monitoring of the Recommendations of the former TRNUC Commission Bill, 2026. The amendment includes the introduction of an “initial mandate” to distinguish the time-bound responsibilities of Commissioners from the Commission’s continuing functions, and the revised reparations framework under section 15 to ensure fairness, consistency, and fiscal responsibility.
Cabinet approved the implementation of the PV Rebate Scheme 2.0 (Small Businesses) as a targeted measure to support small enterprises in adopting renewable energy by reducing the upfront cost of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The approved framework includes a rebate of SCR 7,200 per kWp for systems up to 15 kWp. Cabinet further endorsed the establishment of a dedicated funding mechanism and accountability framework to ensure transparent, efficient, and fiscally responsible implementation of the Scheme, in line with national energy security and climate objectives.
Cabinet approved the continuation and revision of the Seychelles Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Programme (SEEREP) as Scheme 2.0. The revised scheme enhances access to concessional financing for households and small businesses to invest in energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy systems, including photovoltaic installations. The approved revisions include increased loan ceilings of SCR 150,000 for residential customers and SCR 250,000 for commercial customers, longer repayment periods for households, continued government support through subsidies and guarantees, stronger oversight measures, and the addition of the Housing Finance Company to improve access for households.
Cabinet approved the 2027–2029 Result Based Management Planning and Budget Calendar. The calendar establishes a structured and time-bound framework to guide Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and Constitutional Bodies in the planning, preparation, and presentation of the national budget, as well as performance reporting for preceding and current fiscal years. The approved calendar outlines key phases strategic planning, budget preparation, and budget presentation supported by clear timelines, coordination mechanisms, and stakeholder consultations, including engagement with the private sector and civil society, to strengthen fiscal discipline, enhance performance monitoring, and ensure alignment of resource allocation with national priorities and medium-term development objectives.
Cabinet approved the comprehensive review of the Public Procurement Act, 2008 and its 2014 Regulations, together with the implementation of the World Bank-supported Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS) assessment. The proposed timeline for completion is December 2026. Cabinet further approved the establishment of both the independent Working Committee and the MAPS Assessment Steering Committee to oversee and guide the reform process, aimed at strengthening the legal and institutional framework, improving transparency, efficiency, and value for money in public procurement, and aligning Seychelles’ system with international best practices.