Glorious Bakery owner speaks out about challenges hampering La Digue operations |25 January 2024
Mr Banane (Photo: Kurtrine Albert)
In a press conference yesterday morning at Glorious Bakery's town outlet, owner Stephane Banane expressed his disappointment over the closure of the La Digue branch, shedding light on a series of challenges faced by the bakery.
“We have tried to resolve the situation, and to remain quiet to find solutions so we can reopen as soon as possible, but it is clear that things are not improving,” Mr Banane stated.
According to Mr Banane, the bakery's current management was approached with an offer to take over the La Digue branch about four or five years ago. At the time, he saw it as a great opportunity to establish a presence on the island.
After acquiring the business, he invested significantly in renovations, aiming to maintain the bakery's legacy for the La Digue community, he said.
However, the situation took an unexpected turn when it was discovered that the plot of land on which the bakery stood belonged to the government and had been leased out to the family.
Upon commencing operations, negotiations were initiated to secure the lease, but complications arose.
Mr Banane claimed that despite efforts over the years, the government has not been responsive to their requests. As a result, Glorious Bakery found itself in a challenging position without a lease.
He pointed out that with the passing of the original leaseholder, the heirs had opted for an exchange with the government, and were offered a sizeable plot in Perseverance.
Mr Banane shared email exchanges with government officials from the ministry responsible for lands and housing, dating back to October 2020, in their efforts to find a resolution. Frustrated by rumours suggesting the government was considering returning the property to the family, they sought direct communication with Minister Billy Rangasamy.
A meeting was arranged with Minister Rangasamy about four to five months ago, during which Mr Banane emphasised the bakery's importance to the La Digue community. However, he expressed dismay, claiming that the minister seemed uncomfortable with the decision to reissue the lease to the family.
Furthermore, the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) has refused to issue a license for the business. Despite years of operation under the former proprietors' license, when it came time to renew, the property owners withdrew their support. Mr Banane revealed that the SLA rejected their license renewal application, citing incomplete documents, even after securing occupancy for the space.
He revealed that despite his efforts to discuss the licensing issues with the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) since the closure of the outlet last week, no meeting with the CEO has been arranged in the past days.
Mr Banane added that the situation was further exacerbated on Monday when they were informed that the license for the La Digue bottled-water distribution business under the name of the Sodepak would not be renewed either.
As the bakery continues to grapple with lease and licensing challenges, the people of La Digue face the unfortunate consequences of a beloved establishment shutting its doors.
Ahmed Nibourette, the supervisor at Glorious Bakery in La Digue, revealed to Seychelles NATION that following the suspension of the bakery's operations, he has been receiving a flood of calls from both local customers and clients who depend on the bakery's fresh produce.
Mr Nibourette emphasised the diverse range of services the bakery provided, at competitive prices.
Lorna Ladouce highlighted the crucial role the bakery plays for many residents, serving not only as a bread provider but as a source for all their daily meals while at work. With the facility offering various fast food options, the closure has left residents with fewer choices and some more expensive alternatives.
“I think the authorities need to consider the community who benefit from the service,” she said.
Both expressed hope for a speedy resolution to the issues, aiming to benefit consumers on La Digue.