đź“· Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Seychelles hosted the annual Blue Economy Day Bazaar at Beau Vallon on Saturday, bringing together more than 80 exhibitors to showcase the breadth of the country’s ocean economy during the 50th anniversary year of Independence.
The bazaar, held under the theme of ocean-led sustainable development, drew government departments, private businesses, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions and entrepreneurs. Visitors explored a wide range of locally made products, including jewellery crafted from Seychellois raw materials, recycled handicrafts and accessories, fish and value-added seafood products. Educational displays highlighted the work of organisations in marine conservation, fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and other ocean-related sectors. Interactive games, demonstrations and cultural activities kept the public engaged throughout the day.
Former President Danny Faure, the Principal Minister, and the Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy, Wallace Cosgrow, attended the official opening alongside cabinet ministers, members of the National Assembly and senior officials. The director general for the Department of Blue Economy, Chrissant Barbé, expressed appreciation to sponsors, exhibitors and partners for their support.
“Special appreciation goes to all participating exhibitors, partners and organisers who have worked tirelessly to bring this bazaar to life. Thank you to everyone present today for being part of this celebration and for your shared commitment to protecting and sustaining our ocean,” Barbé said.
The bazaar was officially opened with a traditional conch blowing by Marc Grandcourt. In his address, Minister Cosgrow said the occasion was an opportunity to reflect on the country’s achievements over five decades and the central role the ocean has played in national development.
“This year, the day coincides with the 50th anniversary of our Independence. The occasion prompts us to reflect on our nation’s remarkable journey and recognise the central role our ocean has played in shaping our economy and society, sustaining our communities and defining our identity as an island nation,” he said.
He described the ocean as Seychelles’ greatest natural asset, providing food, livelihoods, tourism, trade and environmental security. “While we enjoy its benefits today, it is our shared responsibility to protect and manage this precious resource for future generations,” Minister Cosgrow added.
He noted Seychelles’ international recognition as a pioneer of the blue economy through its commitment to sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, marine spatial planning, responsible tourism and innovative partnerships. Looking ahead, he stressed the need for continued investment in innovation, research, education and entrepreneurship.
Principal secretary for Blue Economy Véronique Nibourette said this year’s celebration carried special significance as it coincided with the Golden Jubilee.
“As Seychelles marks 50 years of Independence, our ocean has remained the foundation of our nation’s progress. It has sustained our people, strengthened our economy, connected us to the world and positioned Seychelles as a global leader in the blue economy,” she said.
She described the bazaar as more than an exhibition, calling it a showcase of innovation, entrepreneurship, education and collaboration. “It highlights the many opportunities our ocean provides in fisheries, aquaculture, marine conservation, tourism, renewable energy, marine biotechnology and other sustainable industries,” Ms Nibourette added.
Seychelles launched its Blue Economy Strategic Policy Framework and Roadmap in 2018, becoming one of the first countries to place ocean policy at the centre of national development planning. The country also issued the world’s first sovereign blue bond, a US$15 million instrument supported by the World Bank and the Global Environment Facility to finance the transition to sustainable fisheries.
Ms Nibourette encouraged the public to engage with exhibitors and learn more about the sector’s diverse opportunities. “Our ocean is not only our greatest natural resource but also our shared responsibility. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our marine environment and ensure that generations to come continue to benefit from healthy oceans and thriving coastal communities,” she added.
She also thanked sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and staff of the Department of Blue Economy for their commitment to organising the event. The annual Blue Economy Day Bazaar continues to serve as a platform for promoting sustainable ocean-based industries while fostering greater public appreciation of the vital contribution the blue economy makes to Seychelles’ economic development and environmental stewardship.
Sources cited: 1. Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy (Seychelles), “Department of Blue Economy”, . 2. United Nations SDG Partnerships, “Seychelles blue bond: transitioning to sustainable artisanal fisheries”, .
