The National Assembly of Seychelles joined the International Community to celebrate International Women’s Day. This was marked by an address made by the Chairperson of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) in the National Assembly, Hon. Regina Esparon. In her address Hon. Esparon highlighted the theme of this year “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow” and stressed that women should be more educated on environmental issues and aspects of climate change for better involvement in these avenues. Nevertheless, Hon. Esparon pointed out the major contributions that women have made in society in the fight against climate change.
Hon. Esparon highlighted the role of women in Seychelles, whom she described as empowering and has to a great extent surpassed gender equality in society. She urges every woman in Seychelles to rekindle the culture of empowering each other positively and reinforcing each other’s capacity to move forward in achieving their goals.
The WPC of the National Assembly further celebrated this special day by presenting two of its previous Members with a shield, for their work and time dedicated to the Caucus and the National Assembly. Attending the small ceremony was the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Roger Mancienne, other Members of LDS and US, the Leaders, the Clerk, and the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly.
Mrs. Noline Sophola a previous Member of the US Caucus and Mrs. Jany Letourdie from the LDS Caucus both served in the 6th and 7th Assembly. Both women were part of the WPC before their rotation earlier this year.
Upon presentation of the Shields, Hon. Esparon highlighted the devotions and the contributions of both women throughout their years as Parliamentarians. She expressed that they have helped to outline concerns and make valuable contributions towards highlighting issues and concerns of women and young girls in society. Hon. Esparon also further stated that despite their retirement she wishes that both women continue to empower other women and girls in a society that will be beneficial for the women in Seychelles and the whole world.
The Speaker also thanked the two women for their contributions and support to the National Assembly. Speaker Mancienne wished them well and encouraged them to continue advocating for all women in society.
On her part, Mrs. Sophola thanked the Caucus for the gesture and stated that it has been an honor for her to serve as a parliamentarian and that she hopes she has been able to contribute towards the betterment of women and girls in Seychelles. Mrs. Letourdie, expressed the emotions she felt for receiving this small trophy and stated that she feels honored that her work in the National Assembly has not gone unnoticed. Both women took the opportunity to wish all women “A Happy Women’s Day”.
The commemoration of Women’s day concluded with the Caucus meeting with the French Ambassador to Seychelles, Mr. Dominique Mas. The aim of the meeting was for the ambassador to know more about the role and future projects of the Caucus. During the meeting, issues such as teenage pregnancy, obesity, and domestic violence that have a direct impact on the women and girls in society were discussed.
The ambassador was briefed about the projects and plans of the Caucus in addressing these issues and offered his support in achieving their goals.
