President Wavel Ramkalawan, chaired a scheduled meeting of the Cabinet yesterday, Wednesday 10th July in which a number of legal and policy memoranda were approved.
The Cabinet approved the fourth Outer Islands Development plan 2024-2029. The IDC is dedicated to building on its past successes with the new Outer Islands Development Plan for 2024-2029, which outlines strategic goals for the outer islands and Silhouette. The plan focuses on promoting economic development, integrating environmental and sustainable principles, enhancing security, achieving the highest standards of cost efficiency, productivity, profitability, and quality, developing a comprehensive manpower plan, and addressing natural disasters and climate change challenges.
The Cabinet approved the proposal to review the Seychelles Pension Fund (SPF) Act to introduce a pensionable age at 65 years and allow members to receive their pension even if they continue to work.
The Cabinet was briefed on a proposal to implement the Ferme de l’Espoir (Fazenda da Esperança) drug rehabilitation project in collaboration with the Roman Catholic mission. Originating in Brazil in 1983, this program aims to rehabilitate individuals affected by substance addiction and has established over 150 units in 24 countries. The Cabinet has approved further discussions with the project proposer to establish operational parameters and implementation costs.
The Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Cyber Security Coordination Committee to protect national critical infrastructure through proactive measures. Cybercriminality, including hacking, malware, and data theft, poses significant risks to individuals, businesses, and governments. To combat these threats, Seychelles is establishing a Cyber Secretariat and a National Cybersecurity Coordination Committee (NCCC). The NCCC will enhance national security by coordinating efforts to protect critical infrastructure, ensuring efficient collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting best practices. With representatives from various government agencies, private sector, and academia, the committee will address challenges such as outdated security standards and the need for increased cybersecurity awareness. This initiative, supported by minimal costs, aims to position Seychelles as a secure digital hub in the region.
The Cabinet approved the Seychelles Sustainable Forest Management Policy. The Policy aims to enhance the economic contribution of forests through sustainable practices while bolstering biodiversity conservation and promoting eco-tourism. This policy focuses on sustaining ecosystem services, protecting forest health, and maintaining the protective functions of forests. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of investing in forest protection to support climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. By prioritizing the protection and sustainable management of our natural heritage, the policy ensures that both current and future generations can reap the benefits of these vital resources. The Attorney General’s Office will assist in drafting the required regulations and review outdated ones to ensure the protection and management of forests.
The Cabinet approved the allocation of funds for slope stabilization works in the Northern region of Mahe, essential to mitigate the risks of rockfalls and landslides identified after the extreme rainfall event on December 6, 2023. This event caused significant flooding, landslides, and rockfalls, leading to blocked roads, damaged infrastructure, and displaced residents. Swiss experts from Gasser AG, in collaboration with local geological experts, identified critical areas needing immediate stabilization. The proposed plan includes major stabilization work at St. Louis Hill, and subsequent phases at Bel Ombre, Le Niol Road, and the St. Louis area. The total estimated cost is SCR 26.4 million.
The Cabinet approved Seychelles' withdrawal from nine international organizations to alleviate financial burdens on the national budget. This decision follows a comprehensive review by the Foreign Affairs and Finance Departments, which highlighted the significant costs associated with these memberships.
The Cabinet also approved Seychelles' withdrawal from the East African Standby Force (EASF). The decision follows a strategic evaluation by the Seychelles Defence Forces, highlighting constraints in financial resources, equipment, and human capital, and a misalignment between the EASF's inland security focus and Seychelles' maritime-centric security needs.
The Cabinet approved a proposal for a 10% salary increase for all constitutional appointees. This is in line with the 10% increase which all public officers received from 1st April 2023.
Relevant Ministries will provide details.