Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs: A year in review (2023) |29 December 2023
Launch of Danilo's art club in Anse Royale
The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, reflecting its commitment to fostering community engagement, promoting sustainable development, and addressing the diverse needs of Seychelles' residents. From the launch of the fathers' association to its own strategic plan, emergency response initiatives, international collaborations, and community-focused events, the ministry has played a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of Seychellois citizens.
Fathers' Association of Seychelles launch
Early this year, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, in collaboration with the Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles (Ceps), supported the launch of the Fathers' Association of Seychelles. The event witnessed a significant turnout of dignitaries, including Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Roger Mancienne and various ministers. Led by chairperson Charles Zialor, the association aims to inspire and support fathers in becoming exemplary role models for their children.
Lar Rwayal launch in Anse Royale (April)
In Anse Royale, the ministry sponsored the launch of 'Lar Rwayal,' a project led by local artist Danilo Albert. This initiative aims to nurture the talents of youth aged 8 to 11 through creative activities during school vacations. Principal secretary Kevin Perine commended the inclusive nature of the programme, emphasising its positive impact on local communities. At present the programme falls under the umbrella of the ministry‘s Animateurs’ Scheme.
Since its launch, ‘Lar Rwayal’ has unlocked the potential of many young artists both during the after-school programmes and the holiday programmes.
Strategic plan launch (September)
In September this year, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs unveiled its ambitious strategic plan for 2022-2026 under the theme 'Serving Our Citizens Better.'
The ceremony, attended by Vice-President Ahmed Afif and other dignitaries, highlighted the ministry's commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement. The plan outlines vital reforms, administrative changes, and the ministry's mandate until 2026.
This strategic plan mirrors the new administration’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and community engagement.
National Incident Command System workshop
In collaboration with the Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD), the ministry organised a workshop to enhance Seychelles' emergency response system. Attended by all 27 district administrations and key stakeholders, the workshop focused on streamlining the National Incident Command System to improve communication and coordination during crises.
South Africa-Seychelles joint commission for cooperation (October 16-17)
In October, the principal secretary for Local Government and Community Affairs, Kevin Perine, and director for community affairs, Murielle Marie, took part in the South Africa-Seychelles mid-term review of the joint commission for cooperation.
Discussions centered on bilateral relations, potential partnerships, and collaborations in local government matters with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
Honourary consuls' impact in communities- 'Adopt a District' programme
In 2023, Seychelles' honorary consuls globally demonstrated their commitment to community development through the 'Adopt a District' programme, a collaboration between the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs and the department of Foreign Affairs.
On May 4, the Grand Anse Praslin primary and Praslin secondary schools received a transformative donation of two interactive screens worth R220,000, courtesy of Mr and Mrs Vitaslev Machacek from the Czech Republic. This generous contribution was facilitated by honorary consuls Jana Stefankova and Farhad Vladi, who adopted the Grand Anse Praslin district.
On La Digue, honorary consul Lennart Swenson from Sweden donated 20 footballs to local youths, boosting community sports. Meanwhile, the St Louis district received six new computers from honourary consul Kasu Venkata Rajagopal Reddy from Bangalore, aimed at enhancing educational resources in the community.
Glacis experienced a positive impact with honorary consul Professor Mohseen Ebrahim from Durban providing free eye tests, glasses, and sponsoring uniforms for youth football teams.
Further, Anse Royale secondary school's football team received a valuable gift – a set of jerseys – from the Seychelles consul in Singapore.
These initiatives showcase the impactful collaboration between Seychelles' Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs and the honorary consuls, contributing to the well-being and development of Seychellois communities.
MLGCA’s first table tennis tournament
The ministry organised its first-ever table tennis tournament, showcasing the talents of young players from various districts. The young players hailed from Persévérance, Pointe Larue, and Anse Aux Pins, and form part of the table tennis programme led by Jimmy Vel under the Animateurs’ Scheme.
Minister Rose-Marie Hoareau praised the participants for their sportsmanship, emphasising the positive impact of such programmes on Seychelles' youth.
Minister Hoareau also thanked head coach Vel, and his team for training the young table tennis players to such a high standard. "It has been less than a year since the programme started, and I am proud of what has been achieved," the minister noted.
Appointment of new district administrators on Praslin
In July 2023, the ministry appointed Berty Cedras and Chantal Laure as district administrators for Baie Ste Anne and Grand Anse Praslin districts, respectively. Both bring extensive experience, particularly in the tourism sector, and are committed to promoting sustainable development and effective governance in their districts on their island.
Urology awareness sessions
In the latter part of 2023, the ministry collaborated with Cancer Concern Seychelles and the urology department to conduct urology awareness sessions across Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
The first session kicked off in Takamaka for the south-west region and throughout the sessions were informative. Attendees, particularly men, learnt about crucial aspects of their health, gained insights on urological wellness and connect with its knowledgeable professionals.
Text & photos contributed
