In commemoration of World Health Day today 7 April, traditionally also Health Workers’ Day in Seychelles, President Danny Faure made a special visit this morning to the Seychelles Hospital to pay homage to all Health Professionals in Seychelles.

The special ceremony organised to mark the day, whilst observing physical distancing measures as per guidance from the Public Health Authority, started with opening remarks by the Secretary of State for Health, Ambassador Marie-Pierre Lloyd, followed by a symbolic round of applause at 9.00 AM to convey the country's appreciation for all health professionals on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic.

In her address, Ambassador Lloyd highlighted the World Health Day theme for this year honouring nurses and midwives, and also reminded the Health officials gathered to commemorate the day despite the exceptionally difficult times being faced. “Everywhere in the world and in Seychelles at this moment, health workers are working incredibly hard to save lives. The challenge is huge but so is our collective determination to overcome it. Thank you Mr President for standing with us and leading the way,” said Ambassador Lloyd.

Following the ceremony, the President also met with Department’s two longest serving health workers:  Mrs May Malcouzanne, the Nurse Manager at the English River Health Centre, and Mrs Winnifred Agricole, the Registrar for the Nurses and Midwives  Council. Mrs Malcouzanne and Mrs Agricole have worked for 45 years in the Health sector. During the meeting, they shared with President Faure their respective journeys and landmark experiences over the past four and half decades in Health.