VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, and Orique Art of Culture have signed an agreement to formalise their collaboration in maintaining the Acasia nature trail and safeguarding its rich biodiversity. The agreement was signed on August 22 at the Zimbabwe viewpoint by the Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, Flavien Joubert, and Terry Accouche, founder of Orique Art of Culture.
The Acasia nature trail stretches from Cherimont to Zimbabwe on the island of Praslin. Orique Art of Culture is the home of Terry Accouche, a cultural tourism site and a museum in itself, and can be reached either via the Zimbabwe road or via a small footpath or trail at Mont Plaisir on the other side of the island. Mr Accouche has been looking after the Acasia nature trail for some time now.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Joubert said the Acasia trail is a place with a richer biodiversity than many other areas in the country, adding that it is more than just a path through the forest. ‘It is a gift of nature and culture that connects our villages, protects our water sources, and provides a safe route for all. For many years, it has carried both history and hope.’ He added that, thanks to the dedication of Mr Accouche and the support of the community, the power of working together is being demonstrated, with the restoration of the trail bringing pride, unity and opportunities for everyone. Present at the signing were the principal secretary for environment, Denis Matatiken, representatives of the department, the Friends of Vallée de Mai, district administration, and the Landscape and Waste Management Agency. Mr Accouche said he is interested in other trails and discussions are underway with the environment department, with the aim of establishing a proper trail circuit on Praslin.
