VICTORIA, Seychelles — A new farmers’ market built for the community of La Retraite at a cost of under R800,000 was officially opened yesterday, providing a clean, modern space for farmers in the north of Mahé to sell fresh produce to the public.
Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment Flavien Joubert, accompanied by member of the National Assembly for Anse Etoile, George Romain, unveiled the commemorative plaque. Principal Minister Jean-François Ferrari, Minister for Local Government and Community Affairs Rose-Marie Hoareau, and principal secretary for agriculture Kevin Nancy were also present. The construction took one year to complete, and the facility is set to provide farmers with an environment that meets high cleanliness standards, allowing them to sell produce that aligns with customer expectations.
Minister Joubert said the new facility is intended to help farmers grow, develop and produce good products, noting that the ministry plans to build livestock zones on Praslin, La Digue, Au Cap and Roche Caïman as its three new priorities. One of the farmers present, Nella Antat, said the market will help them get access to their clients easily and thanked everyone who helped to build the facility. Mr Nancy said the broader goal of the ministry is to put a market in every agricultural zone, helping farmers to better face competition from imported products. Minister Joubert also condemned an incident at the newly opened Anse Boileau Farmers’ Market where solar panels were stolen, leaving the facility without proper lighting.
