SEYCHELLES PRESIDENT ANNOUNCES EMERGENCY MEASURES AMID MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT

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​VICTORIA, Seychelles — President Herminie addressed the National Assembly yesterday afternoon to outline a comprehensive national response plan as the country grapples with the economic fallout of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

​Acknowledging that Seychelles is already feeling the impact of the crisis, the President warned that the repercussions are expected to persist well beyond the end of hostilities.

​TOURISM AND CONNECTIVITY CHALLENGES

​The nation’s vital tourism industry has taken a significant hit, with visitor arrivals plunging to approximately 40%. President Herminie attributed this decline to reduced air connectivity, noting that major carriers transiting through the Middle East, including Emirates, have scaled back operations.

​To counter this, Air Seychelles is chartering larger aircraft to boost European arrivals. Additionally, the government is in talks with Aeroflot to extend flights through September and is exploring new partnerships with Air Tanzania and Air Austral.

​EMERGENCY COORDINATION AND FOOD SECURITY

​A high-level Emergency Committee has been established within the Council of Ministers to monitor fuel stocks, essential commodity supplies, and price trends. To diversify supply chains, the President announced upcoming shipments from Russia, India, and China, and confirmed he will personally visit partner nations in Africa, Asia, and Europe to consolidate trade agreements.

​On the domestic front, the National Committee for Food Security has been re-established. Planned interventions include:

​Introducing animal feed subsidies to support meat production.

​Implementing mechanisms to purchase surplus fish from local fishermen.

​Boosting overall local agricultural output to reduce import dependence.

​ENERGY CONSERVATION AND REMOTE WORK

​While fuel and energy supplies remain stable for now, the government is pivoting toward conservation. Starting Monday, public service employees will be encouraged to work from home where possible.

​"Our hope is that this will reduce fuel consumption for transportation, ease traffic congestion, and lower electricity use in government offices without affecting performance," the President stated, noting the measure will remain until global oil prices stabilize.

​ECONOMIC RESILIENCE

​President Herminie assured the public that foreign exchange reserves remain sufficient to cover roughly four months of imports. However, he cautioned that stricter measures may be required if the global situation deteriorates.

​"At all times, my government’s priority is to manage this situation in a way that minimizes economic impact, safeguards supply chains, and supports the most vulnerable," he said.

​Closing his address, the President praised the dedication of private sector partners and technicians involved in crisis management, reminding the nation that Seychelles has a long history of resilience in the face of external shocks.