President Herminie Pledges Stronger Action on Teenage Pregnancy and Child Protection

VICTORIA, Seychelles — Representatives of local non-government organisation Elles Foundation, Lorea Rassool and Raisa Saley, paid a courtesy call on President Patrick Herminie at State House on Monday morning to discuss the initiatives undertaken by their foundation to assist teenage mothers and issues affecting vulnerable young people.

During the meeting, the foundation shared a documentary video highlighting the realities faced by adolescents in Seychelles, particularly issues surrounding teenage pregnancy, child abuse, and other social challenges. Since its establishment in 2022, the Elles Foundation has been advocating for greater awareness, education, and protection for vulnerable young people, especially young mothers.

President Herminie noted that teenage parents often face significant difficulties in caring and providing for their families. He reaffirmed that government would continue to put in place targeted measures to protect and assist vulnerable children, including access to support such as STC cards, subsidised bus fares, and free childcare services. He also indicated that government will take a decision regarding the legal age of consent for sexual activity, and that laws will be strengthened, including the introduction of compulsory DNA testing in appropriate cases.