Foresters – The courageous group protecting forests of Seychelles |21 March 2026

Division of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, to oversee this vast landscape. To do this, they work in collaboration with other agencies, mainly the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC),

On the International Day of Forests, the vital role of Seychelles’ forests in sustaining biodiversity, protecting water resources and supporting livelihoods is brought into sharp focus. At the heart of this effort are a group of dedicated foresters whose daily work safeguards these invaluable ecosystems for present and future generations. It is the mandate of the Forestry Section, under the Biodiversity Conservation Management Division of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, to oversee this vast landscape. To do this, they work in collaboration with other agencies, mainly the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC), the Landscape and Waste Management Agency (LWMA), and other NGOs.

Steven Azemia, forestry officer – 29 years in the ministry

“I started in 1996 when I was 19 years old with the National Parks Authority. My first project was on Curieuse Island, where we helped restore and rehabilitate abandoned trails. We then moved to other places on Mahé, such as Mare aux Cochons. I have a special connection to that area and how it links to Mont d’Or, Casse Dent, and Plateau Bel Ombre. We have carried out a lot of rehabilitation work there – for example, at Plateau Bélize. I know many trails, except for Congo Rouge, which to this day I have never visited.”

Tell us something adventurous that has happened to you in your 29 years.
“I have many stories to tell, especially encounters with yellow wasps or bees, but this is one I will never forget. Once, in Bel Ombre, I was leading a group when I encountered a hive full of aggressive bees. I immediately covered my face and mouth and fell backward into the bush, hoping to avoid being stung. When the others arrived, they only saw bees swarming over me – they thought I was dead. It was only after the bees left that I shouted out.”

What kept you in this field for so long?

“I have stayed this long in the ministry because I have a passion for the environment. I love nature – it is part of who I am. Over the years, I have worked on different projects and with different people, and that has kept me in the job, even when the pay was very low.”

What is a forest to you and why should we protect it?

“A forest is more than greenery – it is life. Forests play a vital role in our lives. There are different types of forests: some support our economy, while others must be protected at all costs because of their unique biodiversity. Forests help balance carbon dioxide and oxygen in the atmosphere and provide many benefits that we depend on. If a young person has a passion for the environment and cares about its health, they should definitely consider joining this field. There is so much to learn and do – our forests are rich in knowledge and opportunity.

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Ricky Esther, forester – 19 years in the ministry

“I started as an assistant forest ranger in the ministry, then became a ranger, and now I am a forester. I love learning, and this is not a stagnant job. You see and learn new things and visit many places. Even after 19 years, I am still discovering new places – and this happens regularly.”

What do you do as a forester?
“We are responsible for safeguarding our forests. We use laws and policies as deterrents and enforcement tools against illegal activities such as illegal felling. We also ensure the protection of 30 plant species that are legally protected. In addition, we oversee the management of national parks and all terrestrial protected areas.”

How does your work make you feel?
“I am proud to be part of this small group of people who actively and continuously protect the forests of Seychelles. Every time I look at a mountain, I see the results of my efforts and daily work. Personally, I hope that God provides me with the strength and courage to continue working in this field for many more years. We all depend on forests in one way or another – for example, for water, which we need to live. We must all do our part to protect them.

Contributed by the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy & Natural Resources