SFA celebrates its 38th anniversary |03 September 2022
Cutting the anniversary cake
Most of the staff of the Seychelles Fishing Authority from Mahé, Praslin and La Digue proudly came together yesterday at the STC conference room to celebrate the 38th birthday of their organisation.
All staff proudly wore their uniforms, and they were supported by the Designated Minister and Minister for Fisheries and the Blue Economy Jean-Francois Ferrari, the chairman of the SFA board Radley Weber and its members as well as chief executive Nichol Elizabeth.
After congratulating the staff, Minister Ferrari shared that the government values the work that the SFA is doing because “we understand what is at stake and we know the vital role that all of you play in the management of our precious resources for our country, a cause that is near and dear to me. Nationally, our vision continues to be that we are striving for a sustainable ocean-based economy, that contributes to the country’s socio-economic development and respects the natural environment. SFA functions as the executive arm of government that will sail the country towards that vision”.
He encouraged the staff to give their best in their work and to have open ears to comments and criticisms.
Chairman Weber shared that the organisation has undergone significant transformation in recent years, especially after being granted its autonomy in 2019.
“This has not been without its challenges, particularly in an era where good governance is crucial in modern-day public administration,” Mr Weber said.
“I am proud to say that in the recent years, there has been tremendous effort to ensure that the authority catches up to its statutory obligations and requirements. This has been made possible by the very good working relationship that exists between the board, management, and employees of the organisation and for that, I commend you all,” added Mr Weber.
He also noted that SFA’s contribution towards the government through dividends continues to increase which is a sign of positive performance.
CEO Elizabeth spoke about the various ongoing projects and stated that at a strategic level SFA recently reviewed its organigram to ensure that it serves the requirement of its mandate and before the end of the year, it expects to publish the strategic plan for the year 2023-2027. These indicate the commitment to a structured and planned approach in achieving the organisation’s as well as the sector policy objectives.
“Our new strategic plan anticipates creating a new and galvanised SFA, centered on upholding all the main principles of good governance, while placing emphasis on our main asset, which is our people. I see a team with diverse, talented professionals that are taking initiatives and forging the path that will lead us to the future. And I believe that with your commitment, hard work and determination, the future is prosperous.”
After the official part, the staff viewed the progress of the organisation, cut the traditional anniversary cake and partied through the evening.
Vidya Gappy
Photos by Louis Toussaint
