A Seychelles where environmental integrity, social equity and economic growth are in tune with each other.

Ministry of Environment and Energy
Press Release: A Seychelles where environmental integrity, social equity and economic growth are in tune with each other.
Wednesday 9th July 2014

“The new 2012-2020 Seychelles Sustainable Development Strategy, or SSDS, presents Seychelles with a unique opportunity to focus its limited resources on achieving the maximum effectiveness in the implementation of economic growth, social development and environmental protection in harmony.  As a strategic document which has involved wider stakeholder consultations, it provides a clear roadmap to implement the Seychelles sustainable development vision.” This statement was made by the Minister of Environment and Energy Prof. Rolph Payet at the first meeting of the SSDS Council on Tuesday 8th July 2012.

The council which comprises of thirteen members, a broad and balanced representation from Government, private sector, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and community representatives, met at the Minister’s Secretariat following the announcement that the Global Environment Facility has allocated more than 7.6 million USD to Seychelles. The Council is chaired by Minister Payet.

When opening the meeting, Prof. Rolph Payet said that this strategic document replaces the traditional Environmental Management Plan of Seychelles, in that it is more inclusive of the economic and social sectors as well as adopts a more programmatic approach rather than a list of projects. “While the strategy provides for a robust and comprehensive road map for achieving sustainable growth in a wide range of sectors, it also highlights the measures required for us to maintain the balance between ecology and development. Members of the council highlighted the need for the work and outcomes of the SSDS to be better communicated to all sectors of society and encourage buying from all sectors. The Council, which will meet four times a year, agreed on a council work programme to strengthen the governance and implementation mechanism of the SSDS, called for an audit of the SSDS at the end of 2014, and the undertaking of a specific assessment on extent and levels of financing for sustainable development in Seychelles.

Additional Information:
The SSDS is composed of two documents, the first containing the overall strategy, sustainable outlook, financial mobilisation and the institutional framework. The second volume contains all the thematic programmes with their sector policies, strategic objectives, indicators, timelines and budget. The document’s vision is to realise a knowledge-led and innovation-driven approach to sustainable development that balances the quality of life with the need to conserve the integrity and potential of the Seychelles natural environment for all generations.