Commemoration of Seychelles’ Sestercentennial |18 September 2019
One of the performances during the launch ceremony yesterday
The stage is set
The International Conference Centre of Seychelles (ICCS) hosted a dazzling showcase of talent yesterday evening with a ceremony in which President Danny Faure officially launched the activities to commemorate the 250th anniversary since the first settlers arrived in Seychelles.
The launch, organised by the National Preparatory Committee for the 250th anniversary of Seychelles, saw the presence of numerous high-ranking officials including Designated Minister Macsuzy Mondon, Speaker of the National Assembly Nicholas Prea, leader of the opposition and leader of government business in the National Assembly, Wavel Ramkalawan and Charles de Commarmond respectively, among others.
The ceremony opened with a song Ouver ou Leker, performedby Angels Choir followed by video presentation depicting the history of Seychelles in pictures, before chairperson of the committee Sherin Francis delivered her speech in which she highlighted the colourful history of Seychelles throughout its 250 years of existence and urged all Seychellois to be part of the celebrations.
Mrs Francis expressed profound gratitude towards organisations, including government offices, school institutions, private sector, artists as well as individuals who have responded positively to the various media calls by presenting their projects and ideas to make the celebrations a success.
She noted that all districts are onboard to host activities at district-level until the grand main event on August 27, 2020 as well as the National costume competition. A monument will also be erected on Praslin, with the support of Robert Grandcourt in honour of all those who have lost their lives at sea.
“We are all honoured as committee members to be part of this celebration, but mostly it has been very humbling to see how much our Seychellois is a proud nation through the various contributions of their ideas and time. The celebrations remain a way for us to celebrate our beloved country and share with our next generations the real sense of the word patriotism,” Mrs Francis said.
Mrs Francis once again appealed for all to contribute towards the events and called for all Seychellois to unite as “Seychelles needs its children”.
Mrs Francis proceeded to present the official plaque to President Danny Faure before the latter officially launched the activities by presenting a second video presentation.
The ceremony concluded with an intriguing dance performance retracing the early days of Seychelles by a group of youths from the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC).
