Seychelles: Vice President Pillay Strengthens Public Safety and Service Delivery with Key Cabinet Reforms
In a significant move to enhance public safety and service delivery, Seychelles’ Cabinet has approved a series of reforms outlined by Vice President Sebastien Pillay. Key measures include expedited action on hazardous trees, the establishment of a national addressing system, and the initiation of a national drug use survey. These reforms aim to address pressing community needs and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
Decentralization of Dangerous Tree Management
The Cabinet has decided to decentralize the management of dangerous trees, shifting operational responsibilities from the Forestry Section to the Ministry of Local Government via District Administrations. This change empowers District Administrations to identify and mitigate tree-related risks within their communities.
The responsibilities include ongoing monitoring, early detection of hazards, and prompt action when trees threaten homes, infrastructure, or public spaces. Necessary actions may involve tree lopping or removal to ensure safety. The Vice President emphasized the importance of a proactive approach, stating that timely interventions are crucial for minimizing potential damage and protecting communities.
District Administrations will work in collaboration with environmental authorities, while the Forestry Section will maintain its advisory and regulatory functions, particularly concerning protected and endemic species. Current regulations stipulate that any tree cutting or removal requires prior authorization from relevant environmental authorities. Property owners are also reminded of their obligation to ensure that trees on their property do not pose risks to neighboring areas or the broader community.
Implementation of a National Addressing System
In another pivotal decision, the Cabinet approved the Seychelles National Addressing System Bill, 2026. This legislation aims to create a standardized, modern, and digitally enabled national addressing framework. The Bill includes provisions for establishing a National Addressing Department and a National Addressing Database Unit to oversee governance and data management, along with the adoption of international addressing standards and postcode structures.
The Vice President highlighted the critical nature of this reform, noting that the lack of a proper addressing system has hindered Seychelles’ ability to engage effectively with international services. He remarked, “There are countries that cannot transact with Seychelles because we do not have a proper addressing system. At present, what we use as a postcode is simply four zeros. This new approach is intended to resolve that.”
The new addressing system is expected to enhance service delivery, particularly in logistics and courier services, and improve access to data for planning and research purposes. The Vice President added that an effective addressing system is linked to a location rather than an individual, ensuring continuity even when ownership changes.
National Drug Use Prevalence Survey
The Cabinet has also approved a National Drug Use Prevalence Survey aimed at gathering reliable data on drug use within Seychelles. The results of this survey are anticipated to inform policy formulation, guide targeted prevention and treatment initiatives, and support informed decision-making across various sectors.
Cultural Preservation and Institutional Reforms
In a bid to strengthen the visibility and preservation of the Seychellois Creole language and culture, the Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to coordinate efforts in schools and the broader community.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Seychelles Culture, Arts and National Heritage Bill, 2026, which repeals the SNICHA Act, 2021. This new legislation establishes a governance framework that places cultural institutions under the Ministry responsible for Culture, enhancing coordination, oversight, and accountability. The Bill outlines the reorganization of key institutions, including the Seychelles Creole Institute, Seychelles Arts and Crafts Agency, Seychelles Creative Agency, Seychelles Museum, Archives and Library Authority (SMALA), and the Seychelles Heritage Agency.
Public-Private Partnerships and Accountability Measures
The Cabinet has also given preliminary approval for a Public-Private Partnership aimed at the restoration and sustainable use of Maison St Joseph. The government is tasked with engaging private sector partners to develop a comprehensive restoration and long-term management framework.
Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the Commission for the Enforcement, Implementation, and Monitoring of the Recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission Bill, 2026. This Commission will oversee the implementation of the Commission’s recommendations, including issues related to reparations and accountability.
The Vice President described the establishment of this Commission as a crucial step toward achieving closure and accountability for the nation. He acknowledged the complexities surrounding the use of taxpayer money for compensation, stressing the need for careful consideration of responsibility in such matters. He stated, “If we continue to revisit the same debate, the country will not move forward. Our position is clear. Once a decision is taken, we act on it and move ahead.”
The Vice President underscored the Commission’s role in determining its process, emphasizing a focus on delivering results, ensuring accountability, and fostering national reconciliation.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-04-03 17:26:00 • By the Editorial Desk
