EU-backed Project on Climate Adaptation and Environmental Governance Launched in Seychelles

The project, titled “Improving Climate Adaptation and Environmental Governance through Local People and Co-Management in Seychelles,” is backed by €218,000 from the EU.

On Thursday, May 23, 2024, European Union Ambassador to Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Oskar Benedikt, inaugurated a new EU-funded project at Nature Seychelles’ Centre for Environment and Education in Roche Caiman. The project, titled “Improving Climate Adaptation and Environmental Governance through Local People and Co-Management in Seychelles,” is backed by €218,000 from the EU.

Implemented by Nature Seychelles, the project aims to foster cooperation among government agencies, the private sector, and NGOs for collaborative wetlands management in Seychelles. It seeks to enhance partnerships among various stakeholders.

The launch coincided with the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) on May 22, 2024, themed "Be part of the Plan". Dr. Nirmal Shah, CEO of Nature Seychelles, highlighted that this theme calls for collective action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan.

Dr. Shah stated, “The project is a testament to the EU and the Ministry’s recognition that environmental management is a collective right and responsibility. It addresses the need for environmental equity and climate justice, aligning with the Seychellois Charter of fundamental human rights and freedoms. The initiative will honor those dedicating their time, expertise, and resources to wetlands conservation.”

Ambassador Benedikt noted, “The launch of this significant project coincides with the EU month in Seychelles, marking a half-century partnership between the EU and Seychelles. The launch of this grant and our new bilateral programme for 2021-2027, which I signed with the Foreign Minister, underscore our ongoing commitment to environmental protection.”