Culture department mourns death of poet, writer Antoine Abel |22 October 2004

“Mr Abel was one of the most well-known and accomplished poets and writers that the country has ever produced. He was one of the pillars in the promotion of the Seychellois culture. He had a profound understanding and insight into the way of life of our people,” says a communiqué from the Culture department.

“One of the most prolific and versatile Seychellois writers and researchers working in all our national languages, he produced novels, numerous poems, plays, articles and contributed in various cultural and educational fora at both national and international level,” says the communiqué.

The communiqué adds that Mr Abel was a recognised international scholar who was solicited for his insight into the cultural development of our Creole societies. 

“Mr Abel was especially insightful in the use of the Seychellois cultural context in teaching, particularly the French language, being the French advisor in the Ministry of Education before joining the Ministry of Culture,” the communiqué says, adding that  Mr Abel’s contribution to the Seychellois nation will be remembered for generations to come.

The Department of Culture has extended its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Mr Abel.

Mr Abel's body will lie at his Anse Boileau residence today from 12 noon to 2.30 p.m.

The funeral service will take place at 3.00 p.m. at the Anse Boileau church followed by burial at the parish cemetery.