On Friday 26th July 2024, the Environmental Policy Implementation Committee (EPIC) of the National Assembly hosted a Panel Discussion under the theme “Raising Awareness about Mangrove Conservation and their importance as a Coastal Ecosystem”.
The discussion was officially opened by the Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Roger Mancienne, in which he expressed his immense pleasure to address a crowd that has a great interest in Mangrove Conservation. The Hon. Speaker then briefly touched upon the topic at hand, sharing knowledge on the importance of Mangroves and their increasing vulnerability within the developing world. The Speaker further emphasised that there is a national need for the recognition of the value of mangroves, as they are immersed within the culture and the environmental development of the country. Hon. Mancienne stressed that the National Assembly of Seychelles would continue to be an important player in the conservation of mangroves nationally.
The first speaker was Parliamentary Research Officer and Vice-Chairperson of EPIC Ms. Shannon Surman, who discussed the Committee's initiatives and projects, including the adopted wetlands and Parliamentary Mangrove Project. Following this were insightful presentations given by Head of Science and Conservation at the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) Dr. Annabelle Constance, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA) Mr. Allen Cedras, and CEO of Nature Seychelles Dr. Nirmal Shah. This was concluded with a panel discussion in which attendees were able to pose questions and provide feedback on the session.
Following the event, guests had the opportunity to view an exhibition prepared by EPIC which included information regarding the Committee, photographs of activities, and handcrafted figurines of local birds and mangroves saplings made by Committee Members. The fruitful event was then officially closed by the Clerk of the National Assembly Mrs. Tania Isaac.
