CBS hold 45th anniversary lecture |02 December 2023
Second Deputy Governor Jenifer Sullivan flanked by Mr Moustache (left) and Vice-President Afif after presenting them with a token representation of the Strategic Plan
The Central Bank of Seychelles (CBS) yesterday evening hosted its customary anniversary lecture to coincide with the institution’s 45th anniversary.
The 2023 Anniversary Lecture under the theme ‘Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Central Banking’ was held the Savoy Seychelles Resort and Spa, Beau Vallon. It was delivered by the former Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, Dr Patrick Njoroge.
In attendance were Vice-President Ahmed Afif; the Speaker of the National Assembly, Roger Mancienne; Designated Minister, Jean François Ferrari; former President Danny Faure; staff of the Central Bank and other invited guests. It was also live streamed on YouTube and Facebook for the general public. CBS Governor Caroline Abel was not present as she is on overseas mission.
The event was an opportunity to showcase the journey and transformation CBS has gone through since its establishment as the Seychelles Monetary Authority on December 1, 1978. Before the presentations, was the unveiling of CBS’ 45th anniversary logo depicting CBS riding the “waves” of the constantly evolving economic and financial landscape over the past 45 years, which will be used throughout the next year.
In his presentation, the First Deputy Governor, Brian Commettant, highlighted CBS’ achievements and challenges encountered thus far, as well as the way forward, including the opportunities that lie ahead. The highlight of the evening was the lecture delivered by the guest speaker, Dr Njoroge who highlighted on some challenges that CBS would have to undertake such as more communication and engagement with stakeholders, especially the general public, so that they get to understand the bank’s concerns in maintaining an effective monetary policy.
Dr Njoroge’s presentation was followed by an engaging session with guests and CBS staff where he and Mr Commettant responded to questions arising from the evening’s presentations.
The launch of the institution’s new Strategic Plan 2024-2028 was another key highlight. The document, which is CBS’ fourth Strategic Plan, sets out 28 Strategic Imperatives divided under three Central themes – Monetary Stability, Financial Stability and Strengthening internal Capacity that CBS will endeavour to achieve over the next five years. It also highlights the progress made over the past five years to achieve the objectives set out in the current plan despite the challenges encountered, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. It is to be noted that the Strategic Plan has been prepared with the input of CBS’ board, management and staff as well as external stakeholders, including the general public.
In a symbolic gesture, the second Deputy Governor of CBS, Jenifer Sullivan, who has spearheaded the process of preparing the new Strategic plan, presented a token representation of the document to Vice President Ahmed Afif and the chairman of the Seychelles Bankers Association, Phillip Moustache.
Eight long-serving CBS employees, having served over 30 years, were also recognised during the event. The longest-serving employee, Terry Adrienne, who clocked 40 years, said he had stayed that long with the bank because of the opportunities given to him, which allowed him to enhance his knowledge and skills.
Mr Adrienne, who is a senior banking officer, started off as a cashier with the bank 40 years ago.
The other long-serving employees were Donatienne Laporte (39 years), Levina Françoise (37 years), Shirley Mendes (36 years), Erica Pothin (36 years), Dorotha Michel (32 years) and Florette Ah-Wan (32 years)
CBS has been holding the annual anniversary lecture for a number of years, but since 2013 the lecture has been organised every five years with a symposium organised in between to coincide with its anniversary.
Patrick Joubert/press release from CBS
Photos by Patrick Joubert
