A historic 4-3 victory over Mauritius at the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Under-20 Championship was recognised by President Dr Patrick Herminie during a courtesy call with members of the Seychelles National Under-20 Football Team at State House this morning.

The President congratulated the young footballers on their achievement, describing their performance as an encouraging sign of the potential of Seychellois football on the regional stage.

Thirteen members of the 20-player squad attended the meeting, following the team's participation in the regional tournament held in Mozambique in September. Seychelles finished third in their group, recording one victory and two defeats.

The team's victory over neighbouring Mauritius was particularly significant, marking their first win against the Mauritian Under-20 national side.

Among the standout performers was 19-year-old Lorenzo Hoareau, who scored a hat-trick in the encounter against Mauritius and was named Man of the Match. His three goals played a decisive role in securing the victory, with Naythan Barbe adding the fourth.

President Herminie commended the players for their determination and fighting spirit, encouraging them to build on their experience and continue working towards greater achievements. He emphasised that success in sport requires commitment, discipline and perseverance, reminding the young athletes that their achievements can inspire other young Seychellois to pursue their ambitions.

The President also highlighted the importance of continued investment in youth development and opportunities for young athletes to gain competitive experience. He encouraged the team to remain united, learn from their challenges and approach future competitions with confidence.

He wished the players continued success in their football careers and urged them to remain proud ambassadors of Seychelles, both on and off the pitch.

Speaking to the press following the meeting, Man of the Match Lorenzo Hoareau expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to meet the Head of State, describing the occasion as a proud and memorable experience for the team.

He said the recognition from President Herminie was a source of encouragement for the young players and demonstrated the importance being placed on youth and sporting development.

Hoareau reflected on the team's performance against Mauritius, noting that the victory had given the players greater confidence in their abilities and shown that Seychelles could compete against stronger regional opponents.

He also expressed hope that their achievement would motivate other young footballers across the country to remain dedicated to the sport and pursue opportunities to represent Seychelles internationally.

Also present at the meeting were the Minister of Youth and Sport, Ms Kalsey Belle; the Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Council, Mr Mario Pragassen; Mr Denis Rose; and Mr Vivian Both.

The courtesy call provided an opportunity to acknowledge the team's achievement and encourage the next generation of Seychellois footballers to continue striving for success on the regional stage.

The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, this morning received the final report of the Board of Inquiry on the Importation of Firearms at State House. The report was presented by the Chairperson of the Board, Honourable Justice Duncan Gaswaga.

Also present were the Members of the Board, Mrs. Nissa Thomson, Mr. Justin Dogley and Mr. Edward Annacoura; the Secretary to the Board, Ms. Kyra Arnephy; and the Chief of Staff in the Office of the President, Ms. Jenifer Vel.

The Board was established on 31 December 2025 by President Herminie, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, under the Defence (Board of Inquiry on Importation of Firearms) Regulations, 2025 (S.I. 103 of 2025). Its members were sworn in at State House on 19 January 2026. All proceedings of the Board were held in camera.

The inquiry examined who authorised and financed these importations, how the firearms and ammunition were stored, and whether any unregistered armouries remain in existence.

Speaking to members of the press after the handover, Justice Gaswaga shared some of the recommendations contained in the report. He said that, if fully read, internalised and implemented, the recommendations would bring significant change to how things are done, including in matters of national security.

The recommendations address how operations involving the armed forces should be conducted, and how arms are issued and used, with clear procedures to be put in place for such operations. They also set out general standards for officers of the Seychelles Defence Forces and the Police who carry weapons.

The Board further recommended that the country develop a modern armoury, together with proper systems governing how weapons are stored, moved, regulated and disposed of.

In receiving the report, President Herminie thanked the Chairperson and Members of the Board for their work. The President will now study the report and its recommendations in detail. A decision on whether the report will be made public will be taken in due course.In receiving the report, President Herminie thanked the Chairperson and Members of the Board for their work. The President, following a thorough review of the report and its recommendations

President Dr Patrick Herminie welcomed Sergeant Major Annette Course, the first woman to hold the position in the Seychelles Police Force, during a courtesy call accompanied by Commissioner of Police Godfra Hermitte.

With 19 years of service in the Seychelles Police Force, Sergeant Major Course has assumed responsibilities that include maintaining discipline, professional conduct and hygiene standards among police officers.

President Herminie congratulated Sergeant Major Course. on her historic achievement, wishing her courage and success as she assumes her responsibilities. He expressed confidence in her ability to contribute positively to strengthening standards within the police service.

During the meeting, the President reiterated the importance of exemplary conduct among police officers, stressing that restoring public trust and respect must remain a priority for the institution.

He emphasised that police officers have a responsibility to lead by example, noting that discipline, professionalism and proper conduct are fundamental to maintaining the confidence of the public.

The President also recalled his consistent message to the Commissioner of Police that officers must demonstrate exemplary behaviour in the discharge of their duties, highlighting the need to rebuild the respect that citizens should have for the police.

Sergeant Major Course expressed confidence in her ability to discharge her responsibilities effectively, drawing on the experience and knowledge gained throughout her 19 years of service.

Commissioner Hermitte welcomed the historic appointment, explaining that promoting women into leadership positions is among his objectives for the Seychelles Police Force. He emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for experienced and capable female officers to assume greater responsibilities within the institution.

The appointment of Sergeant Major Course represents an important step towards greater representation of women in police leadership, while reinforcing efforts to strengthen discipline and professional standards across the force.

The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, this morning received Seychellois golfer Mr. Adrian Andrade at State House for a courtesy call. The visit followed Mr. Andrade’s victory in the individual competition at the 2026 All Africa Team Championship.

Mr. Andrade was accompanied by his father, Mr. Godefroy Andrade. The Minister for Sports and Youth, Ms. Kalsey Belle, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Council, Mr Mario Pragassen, were also in attendance. 

The All-Africa Team Championship is the continent’s premier amateur team golf event. It was held in October 2026 at Golf Citrus (Les Oliviers) in Hammamet, Tunisia, and brought together 68 golfers from 17 national delegations. Mr. Andrade won the individual title with a total of 205, eleven under par, after rounds of 69, 64 and 72, finishing three strokes ahead of his nearest rival. This victory follows his individual title win at the Africa Region IV Men Team Championship in Mauritius in June this year.

President Herminie congratulated Mr. Andrade on his remarkable achievement and thanked him for raising the flag of Seychelles high on the continental stage. The President said that his success shows that, as long as one dares to dream, everything is possible. He also reminded the young champion that “each time you win, Seychelles wins.”

Mr. Andrade has completed his studies in South Africa and plans to turn professional next year. He expressed his deep appreciation for the recognition. He noted that golf is not yet a widely popular sport in Seychelles, and that he is proud to be among the first local golfers to reach this level in the discipline.

At just 19 years old, Seychellois boxer Jade Micock has already earned two silver medals on the African stage. His latest achievement, at the African Senior Boxing Championships in the 80 kg category, was recognised during a courtesy call on President Dr Patrick Herminie at State House today.

President Herminie congratulated Micock on his achievements, commending his determination, discipline and commitment to representing Seychelles at international competitions. He acknowledged the dedication required to compete at such a level at a young age and encouraged him to remain focused on his sporting ambitions.

The President also highlighted the importance of recognising and supporting young athletes who demonstrate commitment and potential, noting that their achievements serve as an inspiration to other young Seychellois pursuing careers in sport.

Micock, who also secured a silver medal at the African Youth Boxing Championships last year, was accompanied by Minister Kalsey Belle, Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Council (NSC), Mr Mario Pragassen, and Mr Rival Cadeau-Payet.

The meeting provided an opportunity to recognise the young athlete's achievements and discuss his development in boxing, including the challenges facing the sport and opportunities to support his future ambitions.

Speaking to the press following the meeting, Micock described his encounter with the President as interesting and encouraging. He said the discussion allowed him to highlight some of the challenges facing boxing, share his aspirations for the future and explore ways to advance his sporting career.

He also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet the President, noting that being welcomed to State House demonstrated that his dedication and commitment to boxing were being recognised.

For the young athlete, the recognition was itself a source of encouragement to continue working harder and striving for greater achievements.

Micock's two silver medals, achieved at youth and senior levels in consecutive years, reflect his continued progress in competitive boxing and his potential to further represent Seychelles on the international stage.

The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Mrs Rana Adrienne as the Managing Director (Chief Executive Officer) of the Development Bank of Seychelles (DBS), in accordance with Section 20 of the Development Bank of Seychelles Decree.

Mrs Adrienne is an experienced banking professional with over 20 years of experience in the financial services sector, including nearly eight years with MCB Seychelles Ltd and over 13 years with the Development Bank of Seychelles. She has been serving as Acting Managing Director of DBS since April 2026.

She holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Business and Management from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom, delivered through the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS). She also holds an Advanced Diploma in Business Management from the same institution and a Diploma in Business Studies and Accounting from the Seychelles Polytechnic.

Throughout her career at DBS, she has held several senior management positions, including Loans Manager, Head of Credit Control, Second Deputy to the Managing Director (CEO), and subsequently First Deputy to the Managing Director (CEO). Her professional experience encompasses credit management, institutional governance, enterprise risk management, strategic planning and banking operations. She has also played a key role in strengthening lending procedures and supporting the Bank's digital transformation.

Her appointment, which takes effect on 1st October 2026, brings extensive institutional knowledge, professional expertise, and leadership experience to DBS, supporting the Bank's continued mandate to facilitate access to development financing and contribute to Seychelles' economic development.

Vice-President Sebastien Pillay chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday, 28th October, during which a number of policy memoranda were approved.

Cabinet approved the Seychelles Digital & AI Strategy 2026–2031 as the national framework to guide Seychelles’ digital and AI transformation through 2031. The Strategy will support the expansion of digital public services, economic diversification, improved connectivity, development of digital and AI skills, and strengthened cybersecurity and digital trust. Cabinet also approved establishing an Inter-Ministerial Digital and AI Coordination Committee, chaired by the Minister responsible for ICT, and designating focal points within Ministries to support coordinated implementation.

Cabinet approved the implementation of the Government Cloud and Datacenter Project, which will establish a sovereign, in-country Government Cloud supported by two geographically separated datacenters. The project will strengthen the security, resilience and continuity of Government digital services. It will also reduce reliance on commercial and overseas infrastructure and provide local cloud and AI computing capabilities to support Seychelles’ digital transformation. Cabinet also approved the proposed two-phase implementation roadmap, with Phase 1 focusing on the foundational Government Cloud and primary datacenter, followed by Phase 2 to establish the secondary datacenter and expand cloud and AI capabilities.

Cabinet endorsed the Report on the Referencing of the Seychelles National Qualifications Framework (SNQF) to the African Continental Qualifications Framework (ACQF) . The referencing confirms the comparability of Seychelles’ 10-level qualifications framework with the continental framework and is expected to enhance the transparency, recognition and mobility of Seychelles qualifications across Africa.

Maintaining monetary and financial stability remains a key priority for Seychelles, President Dr Patrick Herminie emphasised during a meeting with the newly appointed Governor of the Central Bank of Seychelles (CBS), Ms Sarah Lloyd, at State House on Wednesday afternoon.

The President formally presented Ms Lloyd with her letter of appointment ahead of her assuming office on 1 November 2026.

During their discussions, the importance of maintaining a stable financial environment and the Central Bank's role in safeguarding the country's economy were highlighted. The meeting also placed particular emphasis on the institution's responsibility to preserve price stability and sustain confidence in the financial system.

Having already undertaken a preliminary visit and held discussions with the Central Bank team, Ms Lloyd expressed confidence in the institution's capabilities and looked forward to serving the country in her new role.

President Herminie underscored the importance of continuity in the Central Bank's work as Ms Lloyd prepares to assume leadership of the institution. He wished her success in carrying out her responsibilities.

Speaking to the press following the meeting, Ms Lloyd outlined her priorities, placing particular emphasis on further developing the financial services sector while preserving financial and price stability.

“Alongside the already established priorities of the institution, my focus will be on further deepening the financial services sector, while ensuring that we preserve the stability of our financial system and maintain price stability,” she said.

Addressing questions about the independence of the Central Bank, particularly in situations where its policy direction may differ from that of government, Ms Lloyd stressed the importance of protecting the institution's autonomy and maintaining its longstanding reputation for integrity.

She acknowledged that differences in policy direction could arise but noted that constructive engagement and mutual understanding would be essential in navigating such situations.

“The Central Bank of Seychelles has a history and legacy of being a strong institution that has always delivered with integrity and independence. Continuing to maintain that reputation will be paramount in fulfilling my duties,” she stated.

Ms Lloyd further explained that stakeholder engagement would play an important role in fostering a shared understanding of policy decisions, even where differences exist between the Central Bank and government.

She noted that greater appreciation of the reasons behind differing policy positions could help both institutions identify common ground, particularly as they ultimately work towards the same broader economic objectives.

However, she maintained that the independence of the Central Bank as an institution must remain protected.

Turning to her immediate priorities upon assuming office, Ms Lloyd said her first task would be to engage with staff across the institution to better understand their needs and how they could continue working together to deliver the Central Bank's services effectively.

“I think, as with any new role, my first priority will be to engage with all the staff and take an introductory approach to understanding their needs, ensuring that I know exactly what they require going forward and how we can continue working together,” she explained.

Reflecting on her decision to accept the appointment, Ms Lloyd described her return to the Central Bank as a particularly meaningful moment in her professional career.

Having begun her career at the institution in 2007, she spent approximately 12 years serving in various capacities before moving into commercial banking.

“Although I subsequently moved into commercial banking, accepting this role really felt like coming home,” she said, describing the Central Bank as the institution where she began a career of which she remains proud.

Ms Lloyd brings extensive experience in banking, financial risk management and economic research. Prior to her appointment, she served as Chief Risk Officer of Absa Bank Zambia PLC, a position she had held since March 2022. She previously occupied the same position at Absa Bank (Seychelles) Limited between February 2019 and March 2022.

Her career at the Central Bank began as a Research Assistant before she progressed to Economist and later Senior Financial Stability Analyst. During her tenure, she established and managed the Financial Stability Unit and represented Seychelles at regional and international forums.

She holds a Master of Science in Financial Economics from City University London and a Bachelor of Science in Banking and International Finance from Cass Business School.

Her appointment comes as the Central Bank continues its mandate of safeguarding monetary and financial stability, with Ms Lloyd identifying institutional independence and further development of the financial services sector among her priorities.

Members of the Presidential Security have sharpened their skills in protecting the Head of State, completing the first phase of an intensive six-month training programme. Building on their existing expertise, officers have acquired advanced techniques of an international standard, further enhancing their readiness to respond to any threat.

This morning, President Dr Patrick Herminie, Commander-in-Chief of the Seychelles Defence Forces, witnessed a series of simulation exercises demonstrating these skills and marking the end of the first phase. He was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Forces, Major General Michael Rosette; the Chief of Staff, Colonel Michael Hollanda; and the Commanding Officer of the Special Operations Unit, Lieutenant Colonel Archille Mondon.

The exercises focused on close protection, with officers responding to simulated threats against a protected person. They demonstrated defensive techniques against knife and firearm attacks, moving swiftly to shield, disarm and evacuate. Officers also showed their ability to administer first aid and treat injuries under pressure, and to deploy drones for surveillance and situational awareness.

Expressing his satisfaction with the programme, President Herminie said he was proud to see Seychellois officers performing to such a high international standard.

Major General Rosette said that, with the first phase now complete, members of the Presidential Security are better equipped to carry out their duties.

The training forms part of ongoing defence and security capacity-building cooperation between the Republic of Seychelles and the Russian Federation.

Days after the Seychelles Defence Forces formally ended the search for two Seychelles Coast Guard servicemen missing at sea since 16 September, the President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie, visited the Larue family home at Anse Aux Pins this morning to stand with the family of Denis Oreddy.

The President spent time with Mr Oredy's loved ones, including his mother and his seven-month-old daughter, offering comfort at a moment of profound grief and uncertainty.

"No family should face this alone. The Government stands by them."
President Herminie said.

The President will also visit the family of the second serviceman to extend the same support.

The thoughts and prayers of the President and the people of Seychelles remain with both families.

State House wishes to alert the public to several fraudulent social media profiles impersonating the President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie and the Vice-President Mr Sebastien Pillay. These fake accounts are contacting members of the public and falsely promising loans, housing and other forms of assistance.

State House wishes to state clearly that President Herminie and Vice-President Pillay do not contact individuals through social media to offer loans, housing or financial assistance, and no one is authorised to do so on their behalf.

These profiles are scams designed to deceive the public and obtain money or personal information.

The public is strongly advised to:

• Not respond to, or engage with, any such messages or profiles
• Never send money, pay “processing fees” or share personal, identity or banking details
• Report and block the fake profiles on the platform concerned
• Report any attempted fraud to the Seychelles Police Force

All applications for housing and financial assistance are handled exclusively through the relevant Government ministries and agencies, through their established official procedures.

State House thanks the public for their vigilance and urges everyone to share this warning with family and friends, particularly the elderly and those most vulnerable to such scams.

The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr. Patrick Herminie, has extended his warmest congratulations to His Excellency Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election as President of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

In his message, President Herminie described the victory as a powerful affirmation of the trust the Brazilian people have placed in President Lula's leadership, and a testament to his lifelong commitment to the dignity and well-being of ordinary men and women. 

President Herminie conveyed a warm congratulations of the Government and people of Seychelles, noting that the occasion provides an opportunity to reaffirms the importance of humanity, solidarity and the welfare of the people in governance.

The President highlighted the values shared by both nations: social justice, equality of opportunity, the protection of workers and the most vulnerable, and a model of development that places people at its centre. He affirmed that these principles also lie at the core of his government’s vision for Seychelles. 

President Herminie further reaffirmed the value Seychelles places on its friendship with Brazil and expressed his wish to deepen cooperation between the two countries, particularly in addressing climate change, protecting the oceans and advancing the shared interests of the Global South.

The President concluded by wishing President Lula every success in his new mandate, and continued peace, progress and prosperity to the people of Brazil.

The President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie, has been discharged from the Seychelles Hospital following a full recovery.

The President will resume his official duties at State House on Wednesday 28 October 2026.

The President extends his sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, medical professionals and all staff of the Seychelles Hospital for their dedication, professionalism and the excellent care he received during his stay.

The President also thanks the people of Seychelles for their thoughts, prayers and expressions of concern during his illness.

First Lady Mrs Veronique Herminie has outlined an ambitious four-year plan aimed at strengthening support for women, children and vulnerable groups, while expanding initiatives that promote education, empowerment, health and community well-being.

The plan builds on initiatives such as Welcome to Puberty, Boys Connect and Build Your Dream, which will continue to form part of the Office of the First Lady's efforts to equip young people with knowledge, confidence and opportunities for personal development.

To translate this commitment into action, the First Lady presented a Strategic Framework to Vice-President Mr Sebastien Pillay and Principal Secretary for Administration Mrs Doreen Zelia at State House on Friday. The framework sets out the priorities that will guide the Office of the First Lady over the next four years.

"It will also serve as a foundation for mobilising resources, securing funding and establishing partnerships to support the implementation of its initiatives," said Mrs Herminie.

She added "a key feature of the framework is a commitment to ensuring continuity in programmes that have made a positive difference in people's lives."

Under the theme Empowering Seychelles Together, the framework places particular emphasis on health and wellness, support for vulnerable groups, education, empowerment, gender equality and environmental stewardship.

The Office's main initiatives will be implemented annually, with each one targeting specific vulnerable groups and addressing their particular needs. Through Welcome to Puberty, the Office will continue promoting awareness and education among young people navigating adolescence, while Boys Connect will focus on engaging boys in discussions and activities that encourage positive development and responsible decision-making. Build Your Dream will seek to inspire young people to pursue their ambitions and explore opportunities for personal growth.

As part of its commitment to continuity, Mrs Herminie also intends to carry forward the Hug in a Mug initiative introduced by former First Lady Mrs Linda Ramkalawan, recognising the importance of maintaining meaningful programmes that support vulnerable members of society.

The framework also outlines environmental actions specific to the Office's operations over the four years, including the introduction of green energy in 2026, waste recycling and sorting in 2027, and the adoption of a green vehicle in 2028. These measures aim to make the Office's daily operations more environmentally sustainable.

Several initiatives will be organised around relevant United Nations International Days and other international observances, providing opportunities to raise awareness and encourage public participation in issues relating to women, children, health, environmental protection and vulnerable groups.

An important component of the framework is the strengthening of partnerships with government institutions, civil society organisations, the private sector and international development partners. These collaborations are expected to broaden the reach of the Office's programmes while ensuring the effective use of available resources.

Aligned with national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the framework also introduces monitoring and evaluation measures to assess progress and ensure accountability throughout its implementation.

Through this four-year strategic direction, the Office of the First Lady seeks to build on existing programmes, expand its community outreach and ensure that its initiatives deliver meaningful and lasting benefits to the people of Seychelles. 

On the occasion of United Nations Day, the Republic of Seychelles reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and the purpose and  principles of the United Nations, including the promotion of  peace, international cooperation  and respect for international law. At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, conflict, and instability,  dialogue and diplomacy, remain essential to building a safer and more stable world.

Seychelles remains guided by its longstanding foreign policy principle of being a friend to all and an enemy to none. We uphold sovereign equality of all nations, and their rights to participate meaningfully in international affairs, regardless of its size or influence.  The United Nations must continue to provide a forum for peaceful dialogue, collective action and the resolution of disputes, while adapting its capacity to respond effectively to evolving global order.

The protection of human rights, human dignity and fundamental freedoms must remain central to international cooperation. In the face of conflict, displacement and inequality, the international community has a shared responsibility to protect vulnerable populations, uphold international humanitarian law and ensure that no one is left behind.

Sustainable development is equally essential to lasting peace and stability. For Seychelles and other Small Island Developing States, the challenges extend beyond climate change to include economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, limited access to affordable development financing and vulnerabilities arising from global disruptions. Addressing these interconnected challenges require stronger cooperation between the United Nations, regional organisations, international financial institutions and development partners.

With the 2030 deadline approaching, renewed commitment and greater collective efforts are needed to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Priorities include improving access to quality healthcare and education, reducing poverty and inequality, strengthening climate resilience and protecting our oceans. International partnerships must translate global commitments into practical and lasting benefits, particularly for countries facing structural and economic constraints.

As we commemorate United Nations Day, let us renew our pledge to the pursuit of a just, inclusive and sustainable world; one that uphold the dignity and well-being of all people and endures for the benefit of present and future generations.

The President, Dr Patrick Herminie has been admitted to the Seychelles Hospital for observation.

His condition is stable as more medical tests are being undertaken.

Healthcare professionals are currently ensuring the President is receiving appropriate care.

The President thanks the people of Seychelles for their thoughts and prayers.

The public is kindly asked to rely on official State House communications for accurate information.

President Dr Patrick Herminie has paid tribute to the late Mr Mickey Mason, recognising his contribution to the development of Seychelles’ tourism industry and the role he played in helping shape one of the country's most important economic sectors.

In his message of condolence, President Herminie acknowledged Mr Mason as one of the early entrepreneurs whose vision and commitment contributed to the growth of tourism in Seychelles.

“Behind the development of our tourism industry are individuals who believed in the potential of our islands and took the initiative to invest in its future. Mickey Mason was among those who made a valuable contribution to that journey,” the President said.

Before venturing into tourism, Mr Mason began his career in forestry, where he developed an appreciation for Seychelles’ natural environment. This connection with nature remained part of his journey as he later established Mason’s Travel in 1972, a business that grew from offering boat excursions into a company providing a range of tourism services across the islands.

President Herminie noted that the contributions of early tourism pioneers such as Mr Mason remain an important part of Seychelles’ development history, particularly in creating opportunities for employment and economic growth.

“The progress we enjoy today has been built on the efforts of many individuals over the years. Their contributions deserve our recognition and appreciation,” the President added.

On behalf of the government and people of Seychelles, President Herminie extends his sincere condolences to Mr Mason’s wife, Kathy, his children, family, friends and the wider tourism community.

May he rest in peace.

Vice President Sebastien Pillay attended the official police promotion ceremony today, where he addressed 77 newly promoted officers on behalf of President Dr Patrick Herminie.

The officers were promoted to ranks ranging from Corporal to Chief Superintendent. The ceremony also marked a historic milestone, with Annette Course becoming the first female officer to be promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major. Sergeant Major Course brings 19 years of dedicated service and experience, having served in various units within the Seychelles Police Force.

In his address, Vice President Pillay reminded the officers that promotion comes with greater responsibilities, including the duty to serve without fear, favour or ill will. He expressed confidence in their ability to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and meet the expectations placed upon them.

Congratulating the officers on their accomplishments, the Vice President thanked them for their support, dedication and years of service to the Seychelles Police Force and the country.

The ceremony honoured the officers’ commitment and contributions, with particular recognition of those who have served for many years, reaffirming the commitment to ensuring that no officer is left behind.

Vice-President Sebastien Pillay chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday 14th October, during which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.

Cabinet approved decisive measures to ensure that there will be no increase in electricity tariffs for the remainder of 2026. This decision reflects Government’s commitment to protecting households and businesses from additional financial pressures while maintaining the sustainability of essential public utilities.

Cabinet approved the regulations which will provide the mechanism for the proper administration of the Reparation Trust Fund.   The Regulations will safeguard and ring-fence the Fund so that all resources are dedicated exclusively to reparations, while establishing appropriate governance and oversight arrangements, including a Board of Trustees proposed by the Commission for appointment by the President.  This decision reaffirms Government’s commitment to advance the national reconciliation process and ensure the effective implementation of the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission (TRNUC).

Cabinet approved amendments to the Seychelles Made Act, 2025 aimed at strengthening its implementation.  The amendments include provisions relating to the governance of the Seychelles Made Evaluation Committee, application procedures, certificate renewal and cancellation, and the appeals process. Cabinet also emphasised the need for stronger Government support and protection for Seychellois entrepreneurs, particularly in relation to trademarks and intellectual property rights.  The Ministry responsible for Industry and Enterprise will take the lead in strengthening support to local entrepreneurs, while a policy paper will be jointly prepared by the relevant Ministries to address trademark and intellectual property issues, including the protection and recovery of rights to names endemic to Seychelles. Young entrepreneurs, including participants of the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme, will also be engaged to strengthen awareness of trademark requirements.

Cabinet approved a series of measures towards establishing a more structured and regulated approach to the accommodation of foreign workers in Seychelles, particularly in support of major development projects and in response to increasing demand for suitable accommodation. The Industrial Estates Authority (IEA) will undertake a comprehensive assessment of existing foreign worker accommodation, including the location, number of workers housed and prevailing living conditions, and will coordinate the development of appropriate accommodation standards. The Planning Authority will work with the IEA to establish standards for designated areas where foreign worker accommodation may be permitted, while a dedicated site will be identified for the development of purpose-built accommodation, with the land remaining under Government ownership. These measures are intended to strengthen oversight, ensure acceptable living conditions and provide a more sustainable approach to accommodating the foreign workforce required to support the country’s development needs.

Cabinet approved the review and amendment of the Industrial Estate Authority (IEA) Act to establish a stronger legal and governance framework for the effective management, regulation and development of industrial estates in Seychelles. The reforms will strengthen the IEA’s mandate, enforcement powers and regulatory functions, while providing greater clarity on the designation and management of industrial estates and the respective responsibilities of Government agencies operating within them. The drafting process will commence as a priority through a coordinated approach involving the Ministries and Departments responsible for Lands, Planning, Transport and Environment, alongside the development of an appropriate lease framework and land-use plan.

Vice President Mr. Sebastien Pillay, on behalf of President Dr. Patrick Herminie, chaired the fifth session of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC) yesterday, focusing on Seychelles' fiscal outlook, debt sustainability and the financing of critical infrastructure projects.

Secretary of State for Finance Mr. Patrick Payet presented the Government's Economic and Fiscal Outlook for 2026–2030, outlining economic growth projections, public finances, debt developments and planned investments.

The presentation highlighted significant infrastructure requirements, including the proposed new national hospital, port expansion and rehabilitation, airport redevelopment, and investments in public utilities and renewable energy, several of which have yet to be incorporated into the medium-term fiscal framework.

A central focus of the discussions was the existing debt-to-GDP target of 50%, with several Council members expressing concern that the target constrains Government's capacity to finance critical infrastructure. Members proposed examining greater flexibility within the debt framework to accommodate productive investment, while safeguarding long-term fiscal sustainability.

The Council emphasised that debt sustainability should not be assessed solely on the basis of the debt-to-GDP ratio, but through a broader range of economic and fiscal indicators, including debt-servicing capacity, Government revenue, borrowing costs, economic growth prospects and resilience to external shocks. Members stressed that any additional borrowing must be supported by a credible financing and repayment strategy, demonstrating the expected economic returns and a sustainable debt trajectory.

In this context, members proposed the development of a comprehensive, long-term economic growth and investment framework extending beyond the traditional five-year planning horizon. Discussions also highlighted the importance of tax and institutional reforms, improving the ease of doing business, strengthening private sector investment and exploring alternative infrastructure financing mechanisms.

Members further underscored the interconnected nature of fiscal policy, monetary and financial stability, and the wider economy, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach to economic planning and development.

In his closing remarks, Vice President Pillay reiterated the Government's ambitious development agenda, extending beyond the current five-year period. He emphasised the Government's commitment to creating greater opportunities for the private sector to invest, expand and contribute more meaningfully to economic growth. He further underscored the importance of harnessing private sector investment and economic development to advance the country's long-term development priorities and social transformation agenda, while maintaining fiscal and financial stability.