Zone 21 identified as new site for International Mail and Cargo Centre |09 March 2024
Zone 21, a reclaimed plot bordering the airport, has been identified as the new site for the International Mail and Cargo Processing Centre.
The centre, approved by Cabinet in November 2023, will serve to enhance Seychelles' connectivity and logistical capabilities.
Vice-President Ahmed Afif announced the newly proposed location during a Cabinet briefing yesterday morning, highlighting its potential to boost the country's postal services, and position Seychelles as a hub for international courier services.
Initially proposed to be located at the existing Airport cargo terminal, technical evaluations by key agencies, including the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency (SIA), the department of Transport, and Air Seychelles, determined that the space would be insufficient.
VP Afif assured that the construction of the centre in Zone 21 which borders the airport would not disrupt the construction workers currently residing there.
“There are undeveloped plots available nearest to the airport for the construction of the centre,” he said.
Spanning an area of 600 to 700 square metres, the centre's strategic location will optimise cargo transshipment processes, facilitating smoother operations.
With an estimated cost ranging from US $200,000 to $300,000, including necessary equipment like sorting machinery and scanners, the centre is set to become a vital asset for the Seychelles Postal Services (SPS).
Vice-President Afif outlined the potential for Seychelles to serve as a regional hub for courier services, on account of air connectivity with destinations such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Dubai.
Highlighting the anticipated demand for the centre, Vice-President Afif noted its appeal to global entities like Amazon, positioning Seychelles as an attractive redistribution centre.
Importantly, the project will be undertaken by the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) and SPS without requiring a government budget allocation.
The infrastructure will be prefabricated and designed for easy dismantling, aligning with future redevelopment plans for the airport.
Laura Pillay