VICTORIA, Seychelles — A series of activities are being organised on Praslin this week to mark this year’s International Biodiversity Day, which falls on May 22. The Department of Environment, in collaboration with the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) and other partners, is organising activities from May 20 to 24, under the theme “In harmony with nature and sustainable development”.
Among the highlights of the week is an eradication activity to be held from 9am to 12pm near the Vallée de Mai reserve, at the SIF Stewardship Plot and Meditation spot. The activity is intended to support continued action in the protection and conservation of the country’s biodiversity. Those wishing to join in and support the initiative can contact SIF’s programme coordinator Maria Brioche on 2533073. An additional activity has been added to the programme for tourists, with Fond Ferdinand expected to welcome a number of visitors to its shores for the occasion.
The International Biodiversity Day will be launched during a ceremony on Mahé, followed by an exhibition. Both events will be held at the Camion Hall grounds in Victoria on May 22. Pupils from the Baie Ste Anne primary school will also be taking part in one of the activities. Organisers said the week of activities is designed to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity to Seychelles’ economy and identity, and to encourage greater public participation in conservation efforts. The celebrations are expected to draw visitors and participants from across the country.
