President Dr Patrick Herminie yesterday began a series of official engagements on Praslin with a visit at the proposed site of a dedicated centre for the Agency for the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation (APDAR) in Anse Boudin, a project that has been in the pipeline for several years, an important step in strengthening rehabilitation and prioritising support services on the island.
The President was accompanied by Minister Eveline Rose of the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands. They were received at the site by APDAR’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Yvana Thérèsine, and senior staff, including Benjamin Vel.
The visit underscored the urgent need for Praslin to have a purpose-built rehabilitation facility. Currently, drug rehabilitation services on the island operate from makeshift and dispersed premises, presenting operational limitations for both service providers, clients, and without the infrastructure required to deliver effective care. Those present were unequivocal: the status quo is no longer tenable, and Praslin deserves a proper, dedicated centre.
The visit comes against the backdrop of Seychelles’ ongoing efforts to address substance abuse and strengthen rehabilitation services nationally. To date, Praslin has not had a permanent purpose-built rehabilitation facility.
Previous community consultations regarding the proposed Anse Boudin site included concerns raised by some residents. Discussions have nevertheless continued around the importance of ensuring rehabilitation services remain accessible to those who need them, while balancing community considerations.
The delegation also visited a proposed site behind the police station in Baie Ste Anne, identified as a potential location for a methadone dispensary, as part of efforts aimed at decentralising the service and improving access for clients across the island. Discussions noted that the site remains under consideration, as parallel operational requirements have also been identified by the Seychelles Police. Further engagement between the relevant agencies will be required to determine the most appropriate way forward.