Seychelles: President Dr. Patrick Herminie chaired a Cabinet meeting on August 5th, where several legal and policy memoranda were approved, marking significant steps in governance, economic, and technological sectors.
According to African Press Organization, one of the major approvals included Seychelles signing a Multi-Client Seismic Survey Agreement with Mauritius and Viridien. This agreement aims to acquire geological and geophysical data within the Joint Management Area of the Extended Continental Shelf in the Mascarene Plateau Region, enhancing the understanding of seabed and subsoil resources in the area.
The Cabinet also approved remuneration for the Accounts Receivable Irrecoverable Debts Write-Off Committee and the Irrecoverable Government Loans and Debts Write-Off Committee. This initiative is set to strengthen oversight and due diligence in the assessment and write-off processes of irrecoverable government debts, aligning with the Government's existing remuneration framework.
Furthermore, the Cabinet addressed conflicts between the Immovable Property Tax Act and certain Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs), specifically the Seychelles-South Africa DTAA. Policy options were approved to temporarily exempt South African nationals and nationals from similar jurisdictions, pending renegotiation of the affected agreements.
In addition, Seychelles is set to host the Southern African Broadcasting Association (SABA) Annual General Meeting and Broadcasters Convention in October 2026. The Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) will act as the host institution, with preparations endorsed to ensure a successful regional event.
The Cabinet designated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora as the custodian Ministry for the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) in Seychelles. This decision mandates the establishment of APRM National Structures to support good governance and Seychelles' engagement within the African Union governance framework.
Moreover, the Cabinet approved organizational structures for the Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) and the National Institute for Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI). This framework aims to enhance accountability and coordination, supporting Seychelles' transition towards an innovation-driven economy.
A new National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Integrated Governance System was also approved. This system is intended to strengthen coordination and implementation of STI initiatives across various sectors in Seychelles, aligned with the NISTI Act, 2025.
Lastly, the Cabinet discussed the 2026 La Digue Transport Assessment. It was decided to proceed with road proclamations and allow the arrival of approved vehicles on the island while suspending new applications for additional buggies or electric vehicles. A scientific study will be conducted to assess the island's sustainable limits for future development and tourism policies.