A delegation from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO), led by its Regional Director Mr. Luther Anukur, is undertaking an official visit to Seychelles to strengthen collaboration on biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
During the visit, the delegation met today with the Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy, Minister Wallace Cosgrow, and representatives from the Department of Blue Economy. The meeting served as an open dialogue platform between the leadership of the IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) and key government stakeholders.
The discussion aimed to enhance IUCN’s understanding of Seychelles’ national priorities, particularly in areas such as biodiversity conservation and finance, climate resilience, regenerative blue economy, food security, and pathways that balance environmental sustainability with economic development. It also explored how the International Union for Conservation of Nature through its Secretariat, global network of Members, and expert Commissions could best support these priorities and contribute to strengthening Seychelles’ leadership at regional and international levels.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature is the world’s largest environmental network and a membership union that brings together governments and civil society organizations to advance practical solutions for biodiversity conservation, resilient livelihoods, and sustainable development. Seychelles is a State Member of IUCN, with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Natural Resources serving as the Government’s focal point to the Union.
As part of the official programme, the delegation will also undertake several field visits aimed at strengthening collaboration with national institutions. On Monday 16 March, the delegation will visit the aquaculture facility of the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA). A second field visit is scheduled for Wednesday 18 March to Brikole and the Seychelles Fishing Authority Fishing Line and Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) facility.
The visit reflects the continued partnership between Seychelles and IUCN in advancing solutions that protect biodiversity, strengthen ocean governance, and promote sustainable and resilient development pathways for island states.
