Defence Forces encourage men to be role models |19 November 2022

“In the Defence Forces, we sincerely salute your courage and we know you make a lot of sacrifices. We appreciate the contribution you make towards your families and towards your country. It is important to maintain the positive image and become the role model in the community mainly when you are attached with a disciplinary force. All your movements are under the microscope.”

This was said by the Chief of Staff of the Seychelles Defence Forces, Colonel Jean Atala, during the commemoration of the International Men’s Day at their headquarters at Bel Eau.

The Defence Forces celebrated International Men’s Day 2022 with some reflections and talks.

It was Deacon Louis Agathine and Pastor Robert Moumou who started the programme with some reflections on the role and responsibilities of men according to the Holy Writings. International Men’s Day is a celebration of the men in our lives and society. This special day is observed on November 19 to commemorate all the men in society and their contributions to all aspects of life.

Colonel Atala addressed the men present at the gathering and noted that “Today is our day and we need to do some reflections. We have to evaluate what should be done for the well-being of young men and men in our homes and in the society. As men in uniforms we have to also evaluate what we do in the Defence Forces and reflect on the services that we are offering”.

Colonel Atala urged the men to recognise their capacities as well as their weaknesses. “Unfortunately many young men are not able to cope with life, even within our forces we have to take some decisions to terminate the services of young people who are unable to cope with our rules and regulations. We have to accompany them in order to reinforce the capacities of our young men.”

For those who fell down, Colonel Atala advised them to gather their courage and rise again.

After the words of encouragement from the Chief of Staff, all those present greeted their neighbour and told them they were strong.

Dr Nellie Marie then continued with a presentation on men’s health and she advised them not to feel shy and come forward if ever they have a concern.

Robert Moumou followed with a session on ‘Maximise manhood’ and how Seychelles need to pay attention to the men. “From the statistics, 90% of criminals, gang members, prisoners, perpetrators of domestic violence, school drop outs are men. It is high time for the men to step up and raise the bar.”

A big shoutout to all the men in uniforms for contributing to making society a better place to live. You deserve the best in life – happy International Men’s Day 2022.

The accompanying photos show some highlights of the activity.

Vidya Gappy

Photos: Louis Toussaint