Seychelles Marks World Food Day with Renewed Push for Local Food Security
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles joined the global community in commemorating the 45th observance of World Food Day on Wednesday, a moment that unites humanity around one of its most fundamental needs. This year’s celebration coincides with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.
In a message to mark the day, the Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, Flavien Joubert, said the 2025 theme ‘Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future’ calls on the country to reflect on its shared responsibility in building a food-secure Seychelles. ‘The path to food security, health, and prosperity lies in unity, innovation, and compassion,’ he said.
The minister noted that small island developing states such as Seychelles face ongoing challenges, including rising transportation and energy costs, limited arable land and dependency on global supply chains. He outlined several national initiatives aimed at transforming and modernising food systems, including the operationalisation of a hydroponic greenhouse at the Seychelles Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (SIAH), the construction of the La Retraite and Anse Boileau district markets, the renovation of the Bulk Store and Requisites Store, the upgrading of the Red-Line Abattoir at Cap Samy on Praslin, and the renovation of the Agriculture Extension Service Building at Beolière.
Mr Joubert called on governments, private sector actors, farmers, youth, educators and citizens to work hand in hand towards a more sustainable food system, in alignment with the FAO’s enduring mission of achieving food security for all.
