President Danny Faure visited the Anse Boileau Health Centre and Maternity Ward 1 at the Victoria Hospital this morning, followed by a small gathering with nurse representatives from each section in the Department of Health. His visit coincides with International Nurses Day, commemorated worldwide today 12 May, and follows International Midwives Day, celebrated earlier this month on 5 May. The World Health Organisation (WHO) also designated 2020 as the year of the Nurse and Midwife.

President Faure was welcomed to Anse Boileau Health Centre by the Nurse Manager of the Anse Boileau Health Centre, Mrs Lorna Vidot, and  the resident nursing staff who took him on a brief tour of the facilities at the clinic. Following this, the President met with the staff and conveyed his deepest appreciation to them for their hard work and dedication, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As health workers, you are on the frontlines of this crisis. Despite the risks, every day you make it your duty to provide a service to the people and the community. Today, I would like to thank you all for the incredible work you are doing,” said the President.

At Maternity Ward 1 at the Seychelles Hospital, President Faure was welcomed by the Nurse Manager for the Maternity Ward, Mrs Marie-Josée Dangkow, together with the labour room team and other staff at the maternity ward. 

Addressing the midwives at the ward, President Faure said, “I would like to thank every one of you for your commitment to high quality care, and the dedication, skill and compassionate care you provide to women and their families. The work that you do cannot be underestimated and we remain very grateful.”

A small meeting was also held with nurse representatives from each section in the Department of Health at the Khalifa Conference Centre, while observing strict physical distancing protocols and Public Health guidelines. At the meeting, two nurses, Ms Alice Mancienne and Ms Serra Desir, shared their experiences and journey so far. The President took the opportunity to reiterate his gratitude to nurses and midwives:

“Our nurses and midwives should be recognised every day, but today carries extra significance as our health workers continue to serve on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic. We owe all nurses a deep appreciation for their care and sacrifices, and for this, our nation thanks you,” said President Faure.

Also present for the visit this morning was the Secretary of State for the Department of Health, Mrs Marie-Pierre Lloyd, Chairperson of the Health Care Agency, Mrs Daniella Larue, Chief Executive Officer of the Health Care Agency, Dr Danny Louange, and Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs Gylian Mein.