Seychelles: President Dr. Patrick Herminie presided over a crucial Cabinet meeting on August 5, 2026, during which several significant legal and policy memoranda were approved. Among the key decisions was the approval for Seychelles, in collaboration with Mauritius, to enter into a Multi-Client Seismic Survey Agreement with 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. The survey is expected to enhance the understanding of seabed and subsoil resources, ensuring that activities align with environmental, legal, and regulatory standards.
According to African Press Organization, the Cabinet also sanctioned the remuneration of the Accounts Receivable Irrecoverable Debts Write-Off Committee and the Irrecoverable Government Loans and Debts Write-Off Committee. This decision aligns with the government's existing remuneration framework and is designed to bolster oversight, transparency, and accountability in managing irrecoverable government debts and loans. The associated expenses are to be covered within the Ministry's approved budget.
Addressing taxation issues, the Cabinet approved policy options to resolve conflicts between the Immovable Property Tax Act and certain Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs), notably with South Africa. This includes temporarily exempting South African nationals and those from countries with similar agreements, pending renegotiation of the affected DTAAs and implementing necessary legal and administrative measures.
In a move to boost regional engagement, the Cabinet approved the hosting of the Southern African Broadcasting Association (SABA) Annual General Meeting and Broadcasters Convention - Southern Africa in Seychelles from October 22-26, 2026. The Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) will serve as the Host Institution, with preparatory measures endorsed to ensure the event's success.
Furthermore, the Cabinet designated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora as the custodian Ministry for the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) in Seychelles. The Ministry is tasked with operationalizing APRM National Structures to enhance good governance and engagement within the African Union framework.
To drive innovation, the Cabinet approved new organizational structures for the Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) and the National Institute for Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI), effective August 2026. This framework aims to separate policy leadership from program implementation, thereby supporting Seychelles' transition to a knowledge-based economy.
The establishment of a National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Integrated Governance System was also approved, enhancing coordination across government, private sector, and academia. This aligns with the NISTI Act, 2025, to support Seychelles' socio-economic development.
Lastly, the Cabinet reviewed the 2026 La Digue Transport Assessment, agreeing to proceed with road proclamations and permitting certain approved vehicles on the island. A scientific study on the island's carrying capacity will guide future policy decisions regarding transport and tourism development.
