The chance to win a plot of land, alongside a host of other prizes, was unveiled this evening as Seychelles officially launched the 50th Golden Jubilee Lottery, with Vice-President Mr Sebastien Pillay among those attending the ceremony marking the start of the nation's countdown to the 50th anniversary of Independence.

The launch formed part of the official opening of the National Day Celebrations 2026 under the theme "Nou Pep, Nou Lidantite, Nou Desten", bringing together ministers, senior government officials, sponsors and invited guests for an evening celebrating Seychelles' journey since Independence.

The event also featured the unveiling of the official National Day theme song, Selebre Seselwa, performed by the Mahe Chamber Choir and local artists. The song will serve as a musical centrepiece of the Golden Jubilee celebrations and is expected to accompany a range of commemorative activities and events throughout the year.

Addressing attendees, the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mrs Amanda Bernstein, described the launch as a significant milestone in the nation's preparations to commemorate five decades of independence.

"Tonight marks a very special moment in the journey towards our 50th Jubilee Independence Celebrations. As we gather here for the official launching of the National Day Theme Song and the Jubilee Lottery, we are not simply unveiling a song or a fundraising initiative. We are launching symbols of national unity, pride and participation as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of Seychellois independence," she said.

Mrs Bernstein noted that the Golden Jubilee is not only a celebration of the nation's history, but also of the resilience, determination and achievements of the Seychellois people over the past five decades.

Speaking to State House Press, a representative of the organisers, Ms Penny Belmont, said participants will have the opportunity to win exciting prizes through a series of lottery draws running from June to December. Prizes include a plot of land, hotel accommodation packages and a range of other attractive rewards.

Ms Belmont explained that the first batch of lottery tickets will go on sale next week, with the inaugural draw scheduled for 29 June. Following the June draw, there will be a short break during July and August before the lottery resumes and continues with monthly draws until December.

The lottery will provide participants with multiple opportunities throughout the year to win valuable prizes, with further details on the various draws and rewards to be announced in due course.

Mrs Bernstein also expressed appreciation to sponsors and partners whose support has contributed to the preparations for the Golden Jubilee celebrations, noting that national milestones of such significance can only be achieved through strong collaboration between government, businesses, organisations and the wider community.

As Seychelles prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, the public is being encouraged to participate in the various commemorative activities planned throughout the year and to take pride in the country's shared achievements, identity and future aspirations.

The island nation gained its independence from the United Kingdom on June 29, 1976.