Defence Forces Day Message from the President and Commander-in-Chief  |25 November 2023

‘Thank you for your commitment, dedication and patriotism’

“Celebrating Defence Forces Day is an opportunity for us to honour and express gratitude to all our men and women in uniform, who have answered this noble call of service.

“As we mark this day, we take pride in the fact that our military personnel pledged their lives to protect the sovereignty of the country and its people. This year has seen many achievements whether it is in capacity building, joint operations, humanitarian support and many others. Most recently we have also conducted various successful missions at sea and intercepted numerous illegal activities in our exclusive economic zone and in the fight against illicit drugs.

“In view of the different restructuring and reforms that have taken place, our Defence Forces have also been working in close collaboration with the Seychelles Police in maintaining order in the country. The sterling work and the coordinated operations are commendable and must continue to be strengthened.

“On Defence Forces day, we also show gratitude to our men and women in uniform for providing civil assistance to various ministries, and agencies whenever their assistance is required.  However, in the midst of our successes as a small island nation, I urge you all to maintain a high level of discipline and remain focused to ensure we continue moving in the right direction, promoting peace and harmony in our country. I ask you to remain vigilant at all times to ensure that safety and security prevails within our areas of operations, the region and beyond. The government reiterates its full support to the force in this quest. I would like to also take this opportunity to commend the Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Michael Rosette, for his astute leadership and guidance to the Seychelles Defence Forces.

“To our men and women in the military, thank you for your commitment, dedication and patriotism.

“I wish you all a happy Defence Forces Day.”

President Wavel Ramkalawan

Commander-in-chief of the SDF