VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Elderly and Disabled Division within the Family Department held a march in Victoria on Friday to raise awareness about ongoing abuse towards the elderly and persons with disabilities, and to stand united against any form of abuse. The event drew participation from various ministries including social services and local government, non-governmental organisations and members of the public, beginning at the Victoria Post Office and proceeding along Independence Avenue, around the Bicentennial Monument, and ending at the Victoria Gym car park.
Addressing the crowd, principal secretary of the Family Department, Mike Morel, said there are many forms of abuse, including physical, financial and emotional. ‘We still have reports of abuse happening in Seychelles and we want the public to know that we are against all forms of abuse,’ he stated. The division’s director, Marco Gerry, said the march is a powerful statement of shared commitment towards dignity, safety and inclusion for all, explaining that this year’s awareness activity took a different approach compared to previous years.
Among the participants was Germaine Valentin Gill, chairperson of the Senior Citizens’ Association, who said the event was fitting as it was taking place ahead of June 15, which is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. She acknowledged the unfortunate reality that abuse of the elderly and disabled individuals still occurs in Seychelles. ‘We hear about it happening every day. That’s why we are here to show support and help raise awareness,’ she said. Mr Gerry reminded the public that anyone who witnesses or suspects abuse can contact the Family Department hotline at 4285858 to report it.
