Sustainable Marine Spatial Plan Initiative Launched for Seychelles Waters

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Sustainable Marine Spatial Plan (SMSP) Initiative was launched on Thursday in Victoria, marking a significant step forward in the management of the country’s marine resources. The launch brought together senior government officials, representatives of the fishing industry, environmental groups, and international partners who have contributed to the development of the plan.

The SMSP is designed to provide a framework for the management of activities and resource utilisation under the various zones that make up the country’s exclusive economic zone, including Zone 3, which accounts for 67.4 percent of the national waters. The plan is the result of an extensive stakeholder engagement process, and seeks to improve and refine the allowable uses, activities, and provisions outlined in the SMSP through consultations with national and international conservation partners.

Officials said the SMSP will also strengthen the country’s capacity for monitoring the marine environment and combatting illicit trade through maritime surveillance, with funding administered through the Blue Economy Department. The plan introduces new provisions and compliance measures, and stakeholders are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the document. The ministry said the plan represents a key pillar of the country’s broader environmental and climate change agenda, and is expected to be reviewed every five years.