Ceps Marks World NGO Day with Recognition for Civil Society
VICTORIA, Seychelles, The Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles (Ceps) hosted a ceremony yesterday at the National Theatre in Mont Fleuri to mark World Non-Government Organisation (NGO) Day and to recognise individuals whose contributions to the civil society sector have often gone unnoticed. The annual day, observed worldwide on February 27, aims to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of NGOs across the globe. The event was attended by civil society leaders, government representatives and members of the public.
The recipients honoured at yesterday ceremony were Noella Gonthier, Mia Dunford, Surya Khanna, Jean Claude Matombe, Beryl Dodin, Dr Marie-Therese Purvis, Judge Bernardin Renaud and John Marie, in absentia. Ceps chief executive Alvin Laurence said the recipients were chosen for their longstanding work in their respective fields, including health, environment, social affairs and the faith-based community, where they have each played a quiet but important role. The award ceremony was followed by a short cultural performance and a group photograph.
Mr Laurence also announced the nomination of four new commissioners to the platform: Nigel Henri for the Socio-cultural commission, Gina Laporte for the Health commission, Erold Renaud for the Economic and Environment commission, and Kingsley Poupouneau for the Faith-based Commission. The commissioners will serve as focal points between Ceps and the various civil society groups working in their areas. The appointments form part of a broader effort to strengthen the platform engagement with the wider civil society community.
In Seychelles, there are approximately 250 movements related to civil society. Ceps chairperson Francoise Larue congratulated all NGOs for their work in the community and noted that the achievements and current determination give the sector many reasons to celebrate and be proud. The ceremony included a dance performance and a photo session with the award recipients.
World NGO Day has been celebrated by the United Nations for the last ten years in more than 80 countries over six continents. Dr Purvis emphasised that the associations she is involved with encourage youth participation, and that all groups should strive to involve more young people in their causes. Ceps has said it will continue to support NGOs in registering formally and to help them navigate the process efficiently in the year ahead.
