A landmark initiative is fostering collaboration, cultural preservation, and national development with Seychellois citizens worldwide.
The Seychelles National Diaspora Policy launch at the Savoy Resort & Spa, Beau Vallon, was a momentous occasion, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening relationships with Seychellois citizens abroad. The event, held in the presence of President Wavel Ramkalawan, First Lady Linda Ramkalawan, and Vice President Ahmed Afif, along with numerous senior government officials, diplomats, and representatives of civil society, marked a significant step forward in formalising the connection between the diaspora and their homeland. This commitment is a testament to the value the government places on the contributions of Seychellois living abroad.
The newly unveiled policy, stemming from the Cabinet of Ministers’ endorsement of the National Diaspora Engagement Policy, represents the government’s strategic vision for leveraging the skills, expertise, and resources of Seychellois living abroad to advance national development. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Sylvest Radegonde, opened the event by emphasizing the critical and valued role that the diaspora plays in Seychelles’ growth. “Our diaspora communities are not just a part of our national development, they are integral to it. This policy reflects our commitment to acknowledging and harnessing the valuable contributions of our fellow Seychellois worldwide,” said Minister Radegonde.
The new policy was hailed as a groundbreaking initiative, with special recognition given to the role of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the European Union (EU) in supporting its development. Their support was instrumental in the creation of this policy, and their contributions were acknowledged during the event. Mr Radegonde ceremoniously handed over the first copies of the policy to President Wavel Ramkalawan, IOM’s Regional Director for Eastern Horn and Southern Africa, Mr Justin McDermott, and Mrs Olivia Berkeley, the French Ambassador to Seychelles, who accepted the policy on behalf of the European Union Delegation.
Mr McDermott expressed pride in IOM’s collaboration with the Seychelles government, highlighting the policy’s potential impact. “This groundbreaking policy represents a significant milestone in the history of Seychelles and marks a new chapter in the country’s journey towards comprehensive and inclusive development,” he stated. He also emphasised the long-standing collaboration between Seychelles and the IOM, particularly in labour mobility, migration, maritime security, and diaspora engagement.
Key Pillars of the National Diaspora Policy
The National Diaspora Policy is built around three central pillars, each aimed at enhancing and optimising the contributions of the Seychellois diaspora:
- Governance of Diaspora Engagement: This pillar focuses on establishing effective communication channels between the government and Seychellois communities abroad. The goal is to keep the diaspora informed about developments at home and engaged in national initiatives. Minister Radegonde highlighted that the Diaspora Governance Council, chaired by the Office of the President, would be critical in overseeing policy implementation. The Foreign Affairs Department will serve as vice chair, ensuring the diaspora remains an active partner in Seychelles’ development. Strengthening data management and communication strategies is also a priority under this pillar, which will help improve coordination between the government and diaspora communities.
- Diaspora Diplomacy – Local and Global: This pillar seeks to enhance consular services and protect the rights of Seychellois citizens abroad. It also aims to create platforms for communication and networking, both among diaspora communities and between the diaspora and the government. An essential aspect of this pillar is preserving and promoting Creole culture internationally. “The diaspora are not just contributors but integral parts of our national fabric… they are ambassadors of our culture, values, and real identity,” noted Minister Radegonde. Through cultural events and initiatives, the government aims to ensure that Seychellois remain connected to their heritage abroad.
- Diaspora Capital for Development: This final pillar focuses on harnessing the diaspora’s financial, intellectual, and social capital to contribute to Seychelles’ economic growth. The policy encourages diaspora communities to invest in heritage tourism, conservation projects, and mentorship programs, among other national development initiatives. By facilitating opportunities for Seychellois abroad to contribute their expertise, particularly in education, health, and public administration, the government aims to ensure that the diaspora can make meaningful contributions to the country’s long-term prosperity. “We are creating a sustainable framework that will benefit future generations and strengthen Seychelles for decades to come,” said Minister Radegonde during his speech.
The Broader Context and International Support
The importance of this policy extends beyond national borders, as it aligns with global efforts to engage diaspora communities in development. In a speech, a representative of the European Union expressed the EU’s commitment to improving migration management and fostering diaspora engagement. The EU representative stated, “Each year, millions of migrants send money back to their countries of origin. These financial transfers can significantly contribute to development, helping individual families and providing much-needed capital for national economies.”
The policy’s alignment with international standards such as the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was a key strength, positioning Seychelles to benefit from global best practices in diaspora engagement. Mr. McDermott of IOM underscored that the diaspora’s involvement goes beyond remittances, adding that “the diaspora can also promote trade, foreign investment, create businesses, and transfer new knowledge and skills.”
Cultural Celebrations and Unity
The policy launch also featured cultural performances celebrating Seychellois identity and unity for those at home and abroad. Notably, Ralph Springer’s rendition of his song Port Mon Laku (“Take Me Home”) evoked a deep sense of pride and connection among attendees, symbolising the emotional and cultural bonds that unite the diaspora with Seychelles.
As Minister Radegonde aptly concluded, “This policy is for you, the diaspora. It recognises your invaluable contributions and commits to ensuring you remain an integral part of our nation’s development, progress, and prosperity journey.” His call to action resonated with local and international stakeholders, urging them to implement the policy and ensure its success actively.
Conclusion: A Milestone in Diaspora Engagement
The Seychelles National Diaspora Policy 2024-2029 represents a transformative step in the country’s approach to diaspora engagement. Through its clear focus on governance, diplomacy, and capital mobilisation, the policy sets the stage for sustained collaboration between the government and Seychellois abroad. This initiative has the potential to significantly enhance national development by drawing on the diaspora’s wealth of talent, experience, and resources.
By creating robust communication, collaboration, and cultural preservation frameworks, Seychelles is positioning itself to benefit from a global network of citizens committed to contributing to the nation’s growth. As the government works closely with international partners, such as the IOM and the EU, the launch of this policy is just the beginning of a long-term, impactful relationship with Seychellois worldwide.
