Four gospel songs recorded in Creole and released in a CD format has been released by the Seychelles Bible Society.

The CD will serve as another great tool in bringing the word of God to our people after the Creole bible was launched in October 2017.

The CD launch took place at the Ceps conference room and included an opening prayer by Pastor Abel Ntep Ntep, a scripture reading by Pricilla Payet and a brief history of the project by Raymonde Onezime.

A vote of thanks from Pastor Abel and a closing prayer by Pastor Eddie Payet was also performed

Seychelles Bible Society chairperson Reverend Daniel Kallee presented four CDs to representatives of the four churches invited by the Society and they came from the Catholic, Anglican, Seventh Day Adventist and Pentecostal faiths.

On behalf of the Bible Society, Reverend Kallee dedicated this project and others still yet to come to the youth.

“It is our sincere hope that this project will be for the personal edification of the younger generation in Seychelles,” Reverend Kallee said.

On her part, Ms Onezime said the producers and their team comprised a group of young people from various Christian denominations on the island, and they set to work on this project with great devotion and commitment.

“Along the way they met many hurdles and challenges in the form of absences of certain participants who had to go abroad for various reasons, those who fell ill, breakdown of equipment and other misfortunes which hindered the progress of this project,” she said.

The CD costs R150 and copies are available at the Seychelles Bible Society bookshop at Huteau Lane Complex.

The audio CD of gospels from Mathew, Mark, Luke and John was launched last year when the translated Old Testament was released. The main producers were Alan and Françoise Ally.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Some of the performances by the inspiring actors

Today is World Theatre Day and to mark the occasion, the school of drama of the National Conservatoire of Performing Arts showcased a variety of acting performances on Saturday.

Since 1962, World Theatre Day has been celebrated by International Theatre Institute (ITI) Centres, ITI Cooperating Members, theatre professionals, theatre organisations, theatre universities and theatre lovers all over the world on March 27. This day is a celebration for those who can see the value and importance of the art form “theatre”, and acts as a wake-up call for those who have not yet recognised its value.

Five performances were showcased in the hour-long show on Saturday at the Theatres Des Palmes, Mont Fleuri.

The whole show was orchestrated by students from both youth and adult acting classes.

Drama instructor Kurt Lagrenade said World Theatre Day provides an opportunity for drama to be celebrated in different forms.

“Drama is not only about comedy, there are also aspects which are about real life situations and this is demonstrated as a form of art,” he said.

He expressed how impressed he was with the performances showcased as they were purely based on improvisation.

“Their course for this term is on improvisation and devising. There is a structure which they are working with but most of the words they practiced it merely two times so there wasn’t a script per se,” he said.

17-year-old Dyan Daro said he has been an acting student for the past two months.

“I enjoy acting because I like making people laugh. I hope to keep pursuing it until I get to work with people like Joseph Sinon,” he said.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Kurt Lagrenade, the only qualified drama instructor working with the local Drama School. (Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency)

World Theatre Day is commemorated annually on March 27^th in a day initiated in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI).

SNA spoke with Kurt Lagrenade, the only qualified drama instructor working with the local Drama School of the National Conservatory of Performing Arts. Lagrenade, who studied at the University of Winchester in the United Kingdom, says that the drama sector in the archipelago of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean – needs more resources. Still, he is optimistic for a brighter future.

SNA: On World Theatre Day, how do you see the future of theatre and drama in Seychelles?

KL: I must admit that the future is clearer and brighter now than what it was. I am optimistic that we are on right track to give drama the place that it deserves. However, we still need more resources for this. But I must admit that the government is doing its part to revamp the sector. We have the school. Our programmes are being taken more seriously. More is being done to create awareness of drama and we have more children and adults taking interest in this form of art.

SNA: By resources what do you mean?

KL: We do have school and the “Theatre des Palmes”, which we are using for classes and for small presentations, but we lack a bigger infrastructure. The International Conference Centre in Victoria is always booked and it’s difficult for us to get a slot for our performances. We use to have the National Theatre but it has been closed for two years now for renovation. So this is a constraint. And we need more financial aid, the government is doing its best, but with a bigger budget, we could achieve more.

A group of students in one of the training sessions in August last year. (Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

SNA: How do you see the role of the conservatory in the promotion and development of drama in the island nation?

KL: Like all government entities we get a budget that we work with. But I feel that this is not enough as the conservatory is an educational institution and promoting the arts. So I feel we are limited in what we do and what we can do in the development of arts.

SNA: Do you feel that enough is being done to support and mentor especially children who are interested in theatre and drama?

Activities organised in 2017 for World Theatre Day. (Seychelles Nation) Photo License: CC-BY

KL: Yes I admit some of our children have a lot of potentials. We see that every year through activities for the Creole festival we see a lot of young talents. I am a judge for the “Moman Kreativite” — a show where students showcase their talents in drama, dance among other forms of arts. And each year, I try to bring in these students to the conservatory. But there should be more of such platforms. Nationally we are also encouraging more young people to join drama as we have a new partnership with the University of Winchester. Students studying at the School of Drama will be getting international training following the establishment of this partnership programme. Those who are really interested in theatre and drama can now have the opportunity to be trained, enrich their knowledge and earn their degree at the university.

SNA: What has been planned to commemorate World Theatre Day this year?

KL: For more than a month now, I have been working with a group of children who are new students at the School of Drama. I have been training them once a week.  So they have showcased what they have learned through different short sketches. I am proud to say that the group has learned and put up a good show.  I hope that they can continue to use their skills not only to entertain but at the same time educate and raise awareness on issues affecting Seychelles.

Source : Seychelles News Agency

The clock tower was erected in memory of Queen Victoria, who died in 1901. (Gerard Larose)

One of the most iconic historical features of Seychelles, the Victoria clock tower, is 115 years this year. It was on April 1in 1903 that the clock tower was installed in the centre of Victoria, the capital of the island nation.

A landmark dating back to the colonial era, the clock tower was erected in memory of Queen Victoria, who died in 1901.

Seychellois historian Tony Mathiot said that “the inauguration of the Victoria clock tower in our little capital on Wednesday the 1^st of April in 1903 was a precursory event that introduced a new chapter in the history of our islands.”

The clock tower, which back then cost around $468 — about $12,300 in today’s dollars — was made of cast iron by Gillet & Johnson, a clockmaker and bell foundry based in Croydon, England. These were known as “Little Big Bens” because of their similarity to the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament in London.

Mathiot said, “throughout all those decades, like a living thing the clock tower has witnessed our gradual evolution from an island protectorate to a Republican sovereignty.”

Only four months after it was erected, on August 13, Seychelles – a group of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean – was separated from Mauritius to be governed as an independent crown colony.  In that same year, Ernest Bickham Sweet Escott was sworn in as the colony’s first governor.

“Today as the architectural landscape of our town keeps on changing with multi-storey buildings of concrete and glass dominating the skyline. With pedestrian crossings and traffic lights controlling and directing our busy and hectic lives, the clock tower still asserts itself as a fundamental pulse in the heart of our town, because it has stood the test of time,” said Mathiot.

The Mayor of Victoria, David Andre, said that the “lorloz” as it is known locally is a highly respected monument. “Despite it being a reminder of the colonization of our islands, people accept the clock tower as part of our rich heritage,” said Andre.

Ernest Bickham Sweet Escott was sworn in as the colony’s first governor in the same year. (Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

The clock tower was an exact replica of one which was placed at the entrance of the Victoria Station on Vauxhall Bridge Road in London in 1892 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.

Mathiot said that “the clock tower arrived dismantled in nine cases by mail steamer – but not all together.  On February 11^, 1903, seven cases arrived, the other two having been mistakenly unloaded at Mauritius. Those arrived a month later.”

The clock tower was erected at the intersect of Francis Rachel Street, State House Avenue, Albert Street and Independence Avenue.

“When you see the clock tower you know that you are right in the heart of the capital city and this is significant for the many visitors to our islands,” said the mayor.

In 1901, the population of Seychelles was 19,237 and “the day of the unveiling of the clock tower, without doubt, brought a lot of excitement,” said Mathiot.

“Magnificently draped with the flags of the United Kingdom, the clock tower was unveiled by Governor Sweet Escott who solemnly declared it a memorial to Queen Victoria Alexandrina,” said Mathiot.

The clock tower, which was originally black, was painted lustrous silver in 1935 during celebrations to commemorate King George V’s Jubilee.

One interesting fact about the clock tower is that its chimes were heard for the first time 96 years after it was erected. “The sound of its bell was first heard on September 17^, 1999. This was after major reparation and restoration work done. This included the replacement of its spring-driven mechanism by an electronic one,” explains the Historian adding that “which interestingly enough was obtained from the still existing makers of the clock tower – Gillet & Johnson.”

Source : Seychelles News Agency

The Bel Eau pupils getting tips from professionals on how to do their drawing or take pictures

The National Council for Children (NCC) with the support of local artists, designers and photographers, has officially launched the ‘Encouragement’ art and photo competition for children.

The aim is to show them through art and photography skills what they understand on the theme.

The ‘Encouragement’ campaign was launched at Cascade primary school in February.

Participants have until May 28 to send their entries which will be used by NCC as marketing tool for the theme throughout the year.

The poster and photography competition for primary and secondary schools was launched yesterday morning at the reading garden of Bel Eau primary school.

Held in an open-air style workshop, sixty P5 students had the opportunity to gain some tips and advice from professional artists such as Peter Lalande, James Auguste, Rodney Nicole, Bartholomew Bibi and art teacher Roy Stravens on how to work on the theme.

Present at the launch was the chief executive of NCC, Jean Claude Matombe; the director general for Early Childhood and Primary in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) Cyril Pillay; the head teacher of Bel Eau school, Jane Laurette; the National Assembly member for Bel Air, Norbert Loizeau; district administrator Alexandrine Zelia; the chairperson of Ceps (Citizens Engagement Platform) Jude Fred; teachers; parents; MEHRD representatives and staff of NCC.

Mr Matombe said the aim of the theme was to sensitise everybody on the importance of encouragement in whatever we do.

“For example, our children at times do not perform well and the parents are discouraged. The theme ‘Encouragement” is to give the children a chance through being encouraged that he or she can do better as they need someone to encourage them, to push them further or they will fall back,” he said.

Mr Matombe noted that a simple word of encouragement every day can motivate a child, an adult, a community or a nation to flourish.

Head teacher Laurette said that Bel Eau school is engaged to participate in the competition and encouraged other schools to do the same.

She appealed to teachers, parents and students to give their encouragement to each other and urged them to encourage everyone around them in whatever they do.

The Bel Eau P5 students participated actively in the workshop.

A student, Gareth Charles, who was taking some photography tips from photographer Rodney Nicole, said that he hasn’t made up his mind to take up professional photography but will decide on that later though he likes taking photos with his small camera and on his mobile phone.

Elly Lesperance said she thinks she understands the theme ’Encouragement’ and that she will participate with a drawing.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Kelly Barbe, who followed a diploma course in textiles, emerged as the most outstanding student and won the President’s Cup at the 2017 Seychelles Institute of Art and Design (SIAD) graduation ceremony held at the Anse Royale auditorium yesterday afternoon.

Kelly was among 61 students who successfully completed full-time programmes in their specialisation courses offered by the institution at either certificate, advanced certificate or diploma level.

The courses were in drawing and painting, sewing and textiles, fine art, fashion and graphic design.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of various best performer awards and certificates, ANHRD scholarship, the Seychelles National Youth Council (SNYC) award for most improved performer and the President’s Cup for the most outstanding student.

Other best performers were Leroy Jeanne (certificate in drawing and painting), Kathrina Morel (certificate in sewing and textiles), Nathy Radegonde (advanced certificate in fine art), Dedrey Marie-Paule Marie (advanced certificate in graphic design), Hellenie Lin (advanced certificate in fashion), Mary-Vine Pierre (diploma in art & design), Shahid Burka (best A-level candidate) and Brendan Laurence (best improved performer).

The ceremony was attended by Vice-President Vincent Meriton, the Minister for Education and Human Resource Development Joel Morgan, the Minister for Employment, Immigration and Employment Miriam Telemaque, members of the diplomatic corps, SIAD board members and parents.

Addressing the audience, SIAD director Christine Chetty said the institute recorded a 100% pass rate for the international Cambridge GCE A level art & design examination in 2017.

“Tertiary education and training is increasingly influenced by the labour market and global trends. As such, we remain cognisant of the ways in which the institute responds to these challenges, hence the institute strives to continue offering high quality training programmes in a conducive learning environment to empower students to embark on a fulfilling career in this rather fast evolving technological world,” said Ms Chetty.

Referring to the 2017-2019 strategic plan for SIAD, she described it as another milestone in 2017 as it provides a roadmap for strategic directions to enable the institute to function in a more transparent and efficient manner in the new landscape where all educational institutions have been given full administrative and financial autonomy.

In her message to the graduates, Ms Chetty told them to continue believing in themselves so that they may reach their goals and fulfill their dreams.

“Strive for excellence in every task, large or small and be ready to face the challenges you will encounter with your head held high,” she advised them.

Speaking to Seychelles NATION, the outstanding student Kelly Barbe, said:

“I began my studies at SIAD in the first year following advance certificate in textiles. I received a prize during last year’s graduation ceremony. Now I’ve followed my diploma course. I was not expecting this prestigious prize even if my fellow students told me so. Until now I still can’t digest it.”

Kelly, who lives at Glacis, currently teaches textiles at Plaisance primary school and intends to set up her own business in future.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Chapter Three, a trio comprising Anthony Hoareau (piano), Romario Bouzin (bass) and Andy Constance (drums) will perform live in Pretoria, South Africa on April 14.

The group will fly out to South Africa tomorrow accompanied by the chief executive of the Creative Industries and National Events Agency (CINEA) Gaelen Bresson for their first participation in the Jazz Festival in Pretoria.

To prepare them for their live international performance, the trio will give a free live show at 4.30pm today at the Theatre des Palmes, Mont Fleuri.

Chapter Three, a group that was formed over ten years ago, performs popular jazz pieces and jazz fused sega and moutya on the hotel circuit in Seychelles.

“We have a successful career; ten years ago we started our small adventure for the love of music. Last year, we took part in the Jazz Festival held locally, and our group was well acclaimed by our performances.  In the future, we would like to participate in more local and international festivals and eventually launch our first album as an experimental trio,” Andy Constance, the founder of the group, said.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Local Seychellois artist Vincent Eliza known as Mercenary has become the first local artist to fill up to capacity the NSC hall at Roche Caiman.

The sell-out concert was held on April 7 and it was a night to remember as Mercenary broke boundaries with a great performance .

The Seychellois singer, who specialises in the lover’s rock style of reggae, dancehall and R&B music, was accompanied by the Warrior Band.

Mercenary started the night with songs from his latest album entitled ‘Mercenary’. He also brought out other talented artists and groups such as Louis Gang, Jakim, Swaggtune, Elijah, Gunz, Damasy among others to share the moment with him.

The singer also wowed the audience by singing some of his old songs, which were well received by the crowd.

The accompanying photos show some highlights of the show.

Source : Seychelles NATION

’île de Silhouette s’est doté d’un nouveau site à visiter : son nouveau musée qui a élu domicile dans la manifique Grann Kaz de la famille Dauban.

L’inauguration du musée a eu lieu samedi matin lors d’une cérémonie assistée par la Ministre responsable de la culture, Mme Mitcy Larue ; le Ministre responsable du Tourisme, M. Maurice Loustau-Lalanne ; l’ambassadeur de France aux Seychelles, son excellence Monsieur Lionel Majesté-Larrouy ; le haut commissaire de l’Inde aux Seychelles, M. Ausaf Sayeed ; la directrice des musées nationaux, Madame Beryl Ondiek ; la conservatrice du musée, Madame Bella Rose ; les employés de la National Heritage Foundation et les habitants de l’île, parmi d’autres invités distinguées.

Les deux ministres et le gérant du grand établissement touristique trouvé sur l’île ‒ Hilton Silhouette Labriz Resort ‒ M. Andre Borg, étaient les premiers invités à visiter le musée après son inauguration officielle. A signaler que la Grann Kaz, maison construite en 1860 par la famille Dauban qui fut la première propriétaire de l’île, a été restaurée après plusieurs mois de travaux de restauration importants.

Une initiative de Richard Touboul, attaché culturel du départment de la culture, le projet a été concrétisé à travers un protocole de partenariat signé le 18 janvier cette année entre l’établissement touristique et le département de la culture.

Mais, M. Touboul n’a malheuresement pa pu assister à la cérémonie historique en raison des circonstances familiales.

C’est M. Charles Morel qui a donc livré le discours au nom de M. Touboul qu’il a décrit comme « grand technicien en muséologie ».

« Ce musée devrait s’enrichir au fil du temps d’autres documents et objets ayant un lien direct avec l’histoire de Silhouette et ainsi valoriser et renforcer le patrimoine culturel de Silhouette et veiller à sa conservation », a-t-il dit.

Il est bon de noter que suivant les travaux de restauration sur la Grann Kaz, plus d’espace a été créé, ce qui est parfaitement adapté aux trois thématiques présentées au musée.

La 1ère à l’entrée sur la gauche : une introduction générale suivie de deux panneaux synoptiques de la période française aux Seychelles précède la salle des cartes. La 2ème donne place à des documents rares issue des journaux de navigation, de correspondence, d’actes notariaux couvrant une période allant de 1609 à 1921. Et la 3ème salle présente des photographies évocatrices d’un passé récent et nostalgique de Silhouette.

Il est à noter que tous les textes et légendes apparaissent dans les trois langues nationales ‒ le français, l’anglais et le créole Seychellois.

Toujours dans cette même allocution M. Touboul a  voulu exprimer à Ministre Larue son souhait que dans un avenir proche d’autres musées d’histoire naîtront et que celui de Silhouette servira de modèle à suivre sur d’autres îles comme Praslin, La Digue ou Sainte Anne qui elles aussi possèdent un riche patrimoine historique.

« La réalisation de tels musées offriraient sans nul doute un intérêt culturel et touristique très important et valoriserait de ce fait l’intégralité du patrimoine national des Seychelles », a fait part M. Touboul.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Creole culture activities day marks reopening

The newly restored iconic plantation house originally built by the French Dauban family in the 1860s, reopened on Saturday during a fun Creole culture activities day.

The Grann Kaz, as it is better known, has undergone some six months’ restoration works during which its authentic Creole cuisine restaurant was closed for three months.

Together with the reopening of the Grann Kaz was also that of a new history museum set up in the living room of the old house. An initiative of Richard Touboul, cultural attaché of the department of culture, the museum showcases a number of rare artefacts and documents retracing the history of Seychelles and of course Silhouette (see main story in French).

It took around a year to put together and this with close collaboration of the National History Museum.

The work on the house itself was carried out by the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa situated on the island in collaboration with the Islands Development Company (IDC), the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and the Dauban family.

Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Mitcy Larue officially cut the ribbon in the presence of the minister responsible for tourism Maurice Loustau-Lalanne and the general manager of Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa Andre Borg.

Minister Larue described the reopening of the Grann Kaz and its museum as a great opportunity to experience a moment in time in the history of Silhouette captured in photos, maps and written stories on display in the iconic Silhouette Grann Kaz.

“Whenever any museum, big or small, is created and made accessible to the people, it is testimony to a part of our history, culture and heritage that has been preserved for us and the future generations to appreciate and learn of our past,” remarked Minister Larue.

She noted that the Silhouette museum is a concrete example of how the soul of the island has been preserved in a historical house while allowing visitors to know the history and appreciate the development of the island and it is also testimony how the old can cohabitate in peaceful harmony with the new.

“The museum will not only be an attraction for visitors, foreign and local alike, but also a learning tool for the people of Seychelles especially the youth and school children,” Minister Larue pointed out.

She went on to commend the hard work, effort and commitment that has gone into the setting up of the museum and restoration of the Grann Kaz and expressed the hope that more people in the private sector would invest in similar initiatives.

She thanked everyone who have contributed to realise the project.

Expressing his joy to partake in the celebrations to reopen the Grann Kaz, Minister Loustau-Lalanne described it as a “wonderful building”, “home to the Dauban family” and “a grand symbol of our country’s rich history”.

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa general manager Andre Borg said: “I am happy that we have managed to repair the damages to the house caused by the extreme climate on the island by retaining its original walls and floors.”

He went on to add that the kitchen on the ground floor has also been restored to continue providing the Grann Kaz restaurant with authentic Creole cuisine.

Mr Borg said the Grann Kaz and its restaurant and now museum is open to the Seychellois public and the management is currently working on a concept and package to make it more accessible to the locals to come and enjoy for instance Sunday lunches and visit the museum and the island as a whole.

Thomas Dauban, son of the late Henri Dauban, the last of the French descendant to live in the plantation house, his wife Shirley, daughter Sarah and son Jean Luc were also there to witness the event.

An emotional Mr Dauban junior told the press that the Grann Kaz has always evoked great memories and has always been very special for him and his family.

“To witness and be part of the event marking its reopening makes me very proud and happy,” Mr Dauban said.

Other than the newly opened history museum on the ground floor, on the upper floor, which used to be the sleeping quarters, the remaining Dauban family has put up an exhibition showcasing its history through a collection of photographs, short write-ups and artefacts.

“Today is really very special for me and I am overwhelmed by a strong emotion which I can find no words to describe,” Mr Dauban said.

He added that he is very happy with the restoration work which has preserved and kept the original and traditional architectural wooden structure while repairing the decayed beams, roof and other parts of the house but incorporating a more modern touch.

“In general when looking at it the house is the same as it was before and I am very happy that they have preserved its originality. Its wooden floors made of teak wood are still the same as when the house was originally built and this is really great,” Mr Dauban said.

Mr Dauban and his elder sister, who is currently abroad, are the two children of the late Henri Dauban. He said they were raised mostly on Mahé, more precisely at Mont Fleuri where the family had another house but their stay at the Grann Kaz on Silhouette was frequent and he cherishes those times.

He says he still visits the island at least every three months.

“Each time I come to Silhouette it feels like I am coming back home, the sense of belonging is so great and I enjoy the peace and tranquillity and this is the place I come to when I want to get away and relieve some stress,” pointed out Mr Dauban who has already come back to Silhouette four or five times this year.

During his visit Mr Dauban also interacted with the native inhabitants of the island who have known and worked for his father. Modestie Magnan, now in her 70s and was the domestic worker in the plantation house, is always there to greet him.

On Saturday to mark the reopening of Grann Kaz Mrs Magnan was all smiles posing with Mr Dauban and his family and proudly recounted her life on Silhouette and different anecdotes about the times she spent working with the Dauban famiy.

Among activities to mark the historic occasion guests were able to partake in a buffet lunch of mix Creole and other cuisines.

Creole music and dancing of the traditional moutia and sega was also on the programme while guests and visitors to the island watched live and even tried their hands at making hats with tender coconut leaves with the help of Allain Brown while Jean Baptiste Arissol demonstrated his skills at making fish trap out of bamboo.

As for local artists Nigel Henri, Danny Sopha and Philip Volcère they displayed their paintings.

At the end of the day an auction sale of a few paintings by Mr Henri and Mr Volcère raised over R23,000 which will be handed over to the School for the Exceptional Child.

Heidi Francourt, the head teacher of the school and who was present at the event, welcomed the initiative and while expressing her gratitude for the donation she said the children with special needs really need a lot to make their learning and their environment better.

She added that any contribution big or small are always very much welcomed.

She said the school is yet to decide on the project that will be funded by the money raised.

Source : Seychelles NATION

A special photography exhibition was organised to explore the diverse culture of the Seven States in Northeast India popularly known as ‘The Seven Sisters’ under the theme ‘Paradise Unexplored’.

The exhibition was officially opened last Friday by the Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine Maurice Loustau-Lanne in a small ceremony at the Eden Art Gallery, Eden Island.

“Such exhibition makes you explore the diverse culture of India. This unique and memorable experience is found only in the Northeast of India, with a rich culture. The photography exhibition allows you to journey into the ‘The Seven Sisters’, and visit another culture,” he said.

‘The Seven Sisters’ constitute one of the most beautiful and fascinating places in India. Relatively unexplored, the Northeast India is a land of gripping scenic beauty formed of undulating hills and plains, cascading waterfalls and meandering streams with luxuriant green cover and a wide variety or rare and exotic flora and fauna.

The Indian high commissioner to Seychelles, Dr Ausaf Sayeed, added that a lot of regions in India are highly unexplored.

“Most of the regions of India are unexplored by the public; such exhibition will take you on a journey to another diverse part of India. ‘The Seven Sisters’is the most beautiful region you will find in India, it’s a paradise on earth, a place that needs to be explored by the world,” he said.

Northeast India is also considered as one of most culturally diverse regions of the world. It is a land inhabited by more than 200 fascinating tribes speaking many different languages, offering a cultural kaleidoscope, which is a mix of Tiebetan, South-East Asian and East Indian cultures.

Such exhibition will take you on a journey through this enticing region of India and its fabulous diversity, the experience of which will always remain with you.  Explore the unexplored at the Eden Art Gallery, Eden Island!

The exhibition will remain open until April 18, 2018.

The accompanying photographs show guests viewing the exhibition after the official opening ceremony.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Minister for Youth, Sports and Culture

On the Occasion of the International Day for Monuments and Sites

18^th April 2018

Every year on 18^th April, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) celebrates the International Day for Monuments and Sites, whose establishment was approved by the 22nd UNESCO General Conference in 1983.

The International Day for Monuments and Sites is an important day in our calendar, because it is not only the day on which all Seychellois are given an opportunity to pause, reflect and look back at all the good things that have been passed onto us by those who came before us; but it is also a day to celebrate and relive the heritage that was bequeathed to us by our ancestors. Today we can literally retrace and walk in the footsteps bequeathed to us by our forebears. It is also a day on which we recommit ourselves to nurturing the progress that humanity, especially our nation has made over time.

This year theme chosen by ICOMOS is “Heritage for Generations’’. This theme seeks to promote the importance of knowledge exchange between generations for the conservation and protection of cultural heritage.  The tradition of storytelling has been entrenched in our Seychellois culture as a way to transfer knowledge between generations. Worldwide the exchange of knowledge between generations has been recognized as a crucial step in cultural development and characterizing of the human experience since time immemorial.  If we value our heritage, we will then be able to pass it on to our children with a little bit of ourselves attached to it. What we do now, how we live our lives and the character we build, adds to the heritage we leave to our children. The youths are the future of this country and knowledge of their Culture and Heritage is of paramount importance if we want a nation of peace, tolerance and stability.

In Seychelles, Heritage Week is an occasion for us to celebrate our rich and diverse culture and renew our efforts of conservation, protection and safeguarding of our cultural heritage.  It is also an occasion that provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the achievements and obstacles in conservation and protection of cultural heritage. Most importantly, to celebrate the generational transfer of knowledge and embrace the possibilities it offers as economic activities that can contribute significantly to sustainable development.

The National Heritage Research and Protection Section in collaboration with the Seychelles National Museums and the Seychelles Heritage Foundation have organized various activities as from the 13^th to 25^th of April,  ranging from exhibitions, guided tours of heritage sites and the highlight of the activities will be the reopening of the Domaine de Val des Prés craft village.

I take this opportunity to encourage all of you participate and learn more about our Cultural Heritage.

Les meilleurs espoirs seychellois à Djibouti

Environ 80 athlètes participeront à la 11e édition des Jeux de la Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI) qui auront lieu à Djibouti du 20 au 28 avril.

Les athlètes s’envolent pour Djibouti ce matin et seront de retour aux Seychelles le 30 avril.

Cinq disciplines sportives ont été retenues pour les Jeux, à savoir l’athlétisme, le football, le handball, le tennis de table et la pétanque. Le théâtre, les danses traditionnelles et l’assemblée des jeunes seront au programme du volet jeunesse.

Lors de la cérémonie d’envoie tenue hier au Centre International des Conférences (ICCS), la Ministre de la Jeunesse, des Sports et de la Culture, Mme Mitcy Larue a souhaité bon vent aux athlètes et officiels qui vont représenter les Seychelles

« Je vous souhaite bonne chance lors de la compétition cette année et je sais que vous donnerez les meilleurs de vous-mêmes. Vous devez aussi garder un haut niveau de discipline tout au long de la compétition. Soyez donc des ambassadeurs de notre pays », a dit Mme Larue.

La cérémonie a été assistée par le président de l’Association seychellois des Jeux Olympiques et du Commonwealth, M. Antonio Gopal ; le secrétaire principal de la jeunesse et des sports, M. Fabian Palmyre ; la chef exécutive du Conseil National des Sports, Mlle Giovanna Rousseau ; le chef exécutif du Conseil National de la Jeunesse, M. Alvin Laurence ; ainsi que d’autres invités et les athlètes.

Les représentants seychellois ont tous reçu un sac de voyage de la part de la Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) et c’est la directrice de ventes, Mme Rose-Marie Hoareau, qui a fait la présentation.

Le porte-drapeau de la délégation seychelloise est Tessy Bristol qui avait remporté la médaille d’or de la course du 200 mètres à Madagascar en 2016.

Sports NATION a saisi l’occasion pour recueillir les impressions de deux entraîneurs des équipes seychelloises de football et de tennis de table.

« Cette équipe a les qualités nécessaires pour accomplir de belles choses lors de la compétition. J’ai confiance en cette équipe », a dit l’entraîneur de l’équipe de football Marc Mathiot.

L’entraîneur de tennis de table Jimmy Vel pense que son équipe peut remporter une médaille.

« Certains joueurs ont déjà participé à des compétitions précédentes, mais à cause des examens et autres obligations, la formation a été réduite. Cependant, je pense les joueurs peuvent remporter une médaille », a dit l’entraîneur Vel.

Nous vous présentons quelques photos prises par notre photographe Louis Toussaint lors de cette cérémonie.

La délégation seychelloise :

La Ministre de la Jeuneuse, des Sports et de la Culture, Mme Mitcy Larue ; le secrétaire principal de la Jeuneuse et des Sports, M. Fabian Palmyre (chef de délégation) ; la chef exécutive du Conseil National des Sports, Mlle Giovanna Rousseau ; le chef exécutif du Conseil National de la Jeunesse, M. Alvin Laurence M. Terrence Barbé (l’adjoint du chef de délégation), Andrick Savy, Francis Labrosse et Theresa Francourt (administration), Gracie Nartey, Joselle Labrosse, Sanjeev Pughazendi (équipe médicale).

Athlétisme: Denzel Adem, Ezra Youngman, Caleb Vadivello, Jean-Pierre Barallon, Dwayne Mellie, Daryl Hibonne, Johannus Lucas, Clint Stravens, Joshua Onezime, Brandon Toule, Arnold Morel, Amelie Charles, Tessy Bristol, Shakira Joubert, Maura Raoul, Elilia Anderson, Shanah Jouaneau, Ishveen Paulin, Anisha Rabat, Angelic Boniface, Kendra Souffe, Rabella Bonne, Shamira Chang-Waye, Sheryl Confiance (athlètes) ; Alexander Rodriguez, Gerish Rachel, Beryl Laramé (entraîneurs) ; Joseph Volcy et Monica Samson (chefs des équipes).

Pétanque : Shane Benoit, Rai Jhugroo, Rachid Lagrenade, Brandon Edmond, Fabio Ernesta (athlètes) ; Joseph Charles (entraîneur) ; Bernard Denis (chef de l’équipe).

Handball (masculin) : Jean-Michel Marie, Herbert Dugasse, Chris Labonte, Nel Charles, Sebastien Toussaint, Marvyn George, Andhrano Belle, Cyrence Anthanase, Rahim Freminot, Rudolf Labonte, Shane Jean, Savio Banane, Jeremy Nourrice, Roddy Barra (joueurs) ; Emmanuel Larue (entraîneur) ; Williana Dubois (chef de l’équipe).

Handball (féminin) : Tanishah Labonte, Daryna Marimba, Stecey Marie, Vanessa Andre, Nellie Alissop, Shyla Joubert, Rebecca Betsy, Itarra Lagrenade, Chenille Mwaura, Teera Esparon, Pearl Mellie, Urma Amblavaney, Chelcy Simeon, Tasha Barbe (joueuses) ; Tony Hortere (entraîneur) ; Thelma Sauzier (entraîneur adjoint) ; Marie-Claire Damoo (chef de l’équipe) ; Curtis Esther, May-Rose Sinon (arbitres).

Tennis de table (masculin) : Parrick Dang Kow, Dylan Lafortune, Mael Youpa, Dylan Siméon, Dorian Banane.

Tennis de table (féminin) : Aurelie Toussaint, Emma Bristol, Fatma Boniface

Entraîneur : Jimmy Vel

Chef de l’équipe: David Low Thion

Football : Stan Esther, Ferderick Michaud, Sam Anette, Julio Marie, Calvin Ah-Kon, Rino Pauline, Ian Bonne, Tariq Cedras, Raj Annacoura, Kelvin Cupidon, Dwain William, Josip Ravigna, Afandi Aboudou, Assad Aboudou, Bertrand Esparon, Denis Cafrine, Archille Esther, Errol Bastienne (joueurs) ; Marc Mathiot (entraîneur) ; Jason Denise (entraîneur adjoint) ; Noris Arrisol (arbitre).

Volet jeunesse : Neddy Port-Louis, Daryl Adolphe, Tyrone Adelaide, Elia Savy, Wahida Gobin (l’assemblée des jeunes) ; Ranya Lucas, Stacey Rose, Gaelle Boniface, Anira Sanguignon, Darius Talma, Ray Morel, Gillio Ellen (théâtre) ; Ishia Valentin, Lara Françoise, Alisun Jean, Kella Bibi, Adrian Cesar, Julio Quatre, Stephen Michel, Devin Malcouzane (danses traditionnelles) et Dalibeth Jolicoeur  (encadreur).

 Rodney Rose/Seychelles NATION

All hands on deck for strong first impression in inaugural race

Everyone should do their part in preparing and executing the forthcoming Fédération internationale de natation (Fina) Marathon Swim World Series, so that Seychelles as a nation can make a strong first impression, Sports Minister Mitcy Larue has said.

Minister Larue made the statement during a press conference yesterday at the Seychelles Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association boardroom, Stad Linite, where all stakeholders addressed and updated members of the local press on the event’s progress.

Also present were Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine Minister Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) chief executive Sherin Francis, principal secretary for youth and sports Fabian Palmyre and head of the open water secretariat Ronald Wong.

Scheduled for Sunday May 20 at the Beau Vallon Beach, the second leg of the 2018 series will be the first ever hosted by an African country.

The 10km open water race will bring together Olympians and world champions alongside future open water stars.

Minister Larue said the event would be the perfect opportunity to bring everyone together as it will involve four open challenge – mass participation races – which will be organised parallel with the 10km elite race. There will be three categories – primary school boys and girls, secondary school boys and girls and adults open.

She added that the event will also incorporate several cultural aspects of the country, while the presence of the professional swimmers should be an inspiration for our young athletes.

Minister Larue also thanked all the sponsors and urged others to come forward and bring their contribution towards the event which she said will benefit the whole country in various ways.

On his part, Minister Loustau-Lalanne said his ministry is responsible for marketing the event, through the STB and also the security at sea aspect, which he said is the full responsibility of the Seychelles Maritime Safety Administration (SMSA).

Minister Loustau-Lalanne said the STB will contribute R2 million towards the event’s marketing and as for its international exposure he noted that nine journalists from China, South Korea and Italy have so far confirmed their involvement, along with a South African group of television channel SuperSports.

He also mentioned the active involvement of four local tour operators, namely Creole Travel Services, Mason’s Travel, Summer Rain Tour and 7 degrees South which, he said, are fully committed towards the event.

Stressing on the security aspect of the event, Mr Wong said solely well-trained professionals will be involved. He added that the sub-committee responsible for that area will conduct a test drill on Saturday April 29 on rescue and security, all in line with their preparation for the event.

The Fina Marathon Swim World Series, known as the 10km Marathon Swimming World Cup until 2017, is a series of 10km open water swimming races held annually since 2007. Prior to 2007, 10K races were held as part of the Fina’s Open Water Grand Prix series.

Prizes and points are awarded for each race in the series, with the points being added together for an overall point standing (and overall awards).

Next month’s event is the second leg in the 2018 series. The first was held in Doha in March with the Payet brothers – Bertrand (16 years old) and Damien (14) — representing the country.

In the men’s race, Olympic title holder Ferry Weertman won the gold medal in a time of 1 hour 52 minutes 41.6 seconds (1h52:42), while France’s David Aubry took silver in 1h52:42, ahead of Italy’s Simone Ruffini — last year’s overall Series’ winner – who took bronze in 1h52:42.7.

In the women’s race, Sharon Van Rouwendaal touched home in 2h02:24, while Germany’s Leonie Beck was second in 2h02:25, ahead of teammate Finnia Wunram who was third in 2h02:26.

R. D./Seychelles NATION

A host of activities under the theme ‘Heritage for Generation’ was launched yesterday to mark the start of Heritage Week.

The activities, held at the Ex-Supreme Court, were organised by the National Heritage Research and Protection Section (NHRPS) in collaboration with the Seychelles History Museum and the Seychelles Heritage Foundation.

Yesterday’s activities included the sale of local products, exhibition at the former Supreme Court, guided tours around Victoria, selling of assorted traditional craft  and heritage bazaar.

The aim of the activity was to celebrate our rich and diverse cultural heritage, and to renew efforts for the protection and conservation of our historical monuments. Heritage Day is an international event which is celebrated each year on April 18. It was initiated by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) in 1982 and was approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) in 1983. The aim of this event is to celebrate the diversity of heritage throughout the world.

In Seychelles activities to mark the occasion will spread over seven days.

In an interview with Seychelles NATION the principal research officer at the NHRPS, Berthilda Walter, stated that Heritage Week allows each individual to learn more about culture.

“Heritage Week is an occasion to not only reflect on the achievements and obstacles in the heritage domain but most importantly it is an opportunity to reconnect with our heritage and embrace the possibilities it offers in the future. The Heritage week is an occasion for us to celebrate our rich and diverse culture and renew our efforts of conservation and protection of the Seychellois culture,” she said.

She added such important activity provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the achievement and obstacles in conservation and protection of cultural heritage.

“Most importantly it is to celebrate the generational transfer of knowledge and embrace the possibilities it offers as livelihood for future generation,” she said.

Among the activities being organised during the week include cleaning of monuments, re-opening of the Craft Village, touring of Copolia trail, among others.

Source : Seychelles NATION

 The talented musician-cum-comedian Joseph Sinon aka Patoustous has much to celebrate this year as he marks his 25 years in music, theater and the creation of his group Tanmi.

To mark this auspicious occasion the singer is organising a gala concert on June 2, 2018 at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort where he will launch his new album entitled ‘Les Li’.

The event will also coincide with his 53^rd birthday on June 5.

Accompanying Joseph Sinon on this memorable journey will also be 25 local singers and musicians such as Jean-Marc Volcy, Patrick Victor, Chicco Martino, Simon Amade, Sandra, Regie, Ion Kid, Mercenary, Ruben, Jakim, Gunz, Isham, Ras Ricky, Island Vibration, among others.

Tickets for the Jubilee Celebration will be on sale next week at the Tanmi shop, National Arts Council (NAC) and Dam’s Enterprise (Ex Kot Do) at R300 for the concert only and R800 for the gala dinner plus concert.

People who will celebrate their birthdays on June 5 like Joseph Sinon will have a special discount while buying their tickets, for which an identification card will have to be produce.

Source : Seychelles NATION

Are you an adventurous person? Are you fascinated with stories of buried treasure? Are you physically fit?  Then why not join the La Buse treasure hunt this Sunday as part of this year’s Heritage Week.

The senior project manager of the Seychelles Heritage Foundation, Cindy Moka, told SNA on Thursday that the event is to revive the historical treasure burial site at Bel Ombre – a district in the north of main island Mahe – where the La Buse treasure is said to be buried.

La Buse was the famous pirate Olivier Le Vasseur active in the 1700 and known for allegedly hiding one of the biggest treasures in pirate history, estimated at $1.4 billion.

The La Buse treasure hunt is organised by the Seychelles Heritage Foundation and John Cruise-Wilkins – the son of Reginald Cruise-Wilkins who started the hunt for the La Buse treasure in 1949 – in collaboration with the Seychelles Tourism Board.

Moka said the treasure hunt is divided in two parts – the code grid and the obstacle hunt. “For the code grid, five clues and a puzzle grid will be published in the Seychelles Nation from Tuesday April 17 until Sunday April 22. The shaded letters on the grid will give the answers to a location where the second part of the hunt will begin,” explained Moka.

As for the actual treasure hunt, which will take place on Sunday, Moka said: “The treasure hunters will meet at the location as per the last clue published in the daily paper. Then they will be given other clues which will eventually, if they can decipher the clues, lead them to the hidden treasure.”

Moka said “since the stories of the La Buse treasure at the Bel Ombre site is an integral part of our cultural heritage, it important to organize activities geared towards the transfer of knowledge from the older to the younger generation.” She added that this coincides with year’s theme — Heritage for Generation.

The senior project manager added that the hunt will be very physical and hunters have to be very fit and prepared to take quick decision over clues given. The treasure is sponsored by jewelry company – Jouel – is worth $578.

La Buse Treasure Hunt is opened to residents aged 15 years and above. The number of hunters is limited to 25.

According to John Cruise-Wilkins – who decided to follow in his father’s footstep, Reginald Cruise-Wilkins, to dig for the La Buse treasure – “the event will help young people to learn more about the history of the pirates who are rumored to have visited the islands for their treasure sites.”

Cruise-Wilkins said as part of his contribution to the event he has shared information gathered over the years during his hunt for the treasure, adding that this will make the hunt more interesting.

The treasure hunter took over the search in 1988, a decade after his father passed away. Cruise-Wilkins said it was not difficult for him to continue in his father’s footsteps as he used to work alongside his father as a kid during the holidays and weekends.

The treasure is believed to be that of La Buse, who stole it from the Portuguese ship the Virgem do Cabo a week after Easter Sunday in April 1721.

Historical records state that the treasure buried in Seychelles, a group of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, includes a seven-foot high Cross of Goa made of solid gold and encrusted with precious stones, which took three strong men to carry.

Source : Seychelles News Agency

It is exactly 30 years since the Domaine de Val des Près opened as a showcase of our cultural past. TONY MATHIOT, Chairman of the Seychelles Heritage Foundation Board, has some wonderful news.

The visitor’s book on the antique mahogany table next to the Polliack gramophone is filled with praises and commendatory remarks from visitors of various nationalities. They came from Australia, Slovakia, India, China, Turkey, Romania… even Poland. Places that traditionally our sun-seeking holiday makers Do Not come from. Well, the Domaine de Val des Près here at Au Cap is not an ordinary place. The house is a bewildering beauty.

This is the last authentic traditional creole homestead in Seychelles.  It stands on what was once known as the St Roch Estate.  Comprising many acres of land where coconuts and cinnamon were grown. A cinnamon distillery made essential oil for the export market. This gigantic house of timber was originally built in the 1870s when property owners built homes that reflected their status and prosperity. It epitomized the typical plantation house that was once common in the tropical islands of the French and British colonies.

Although it was extensively renovated and refurbished in the course of which modifications were necessary, the house has retained all the traditional aspects of the colonial plantation house: the pitched roof, with finials and prickets, the dormer windows and garrets, the wide verandah that encompasses the entire quadrilateral structure of the building, and of course the obligatory masonry plinths on which it rests.

 In 1926, Dr John Thomas Bradley (1872-1942) who was then chief medical officer of health in Seychelles gave the house to his daughter Dolly who in 1920 had married Douglas Bailey (1899-1974), a wealthy Anglican and fervent supporter of the Anglican Church in Seychelles.  He was employed by the Eastern Telegraph Company.  He was also a nominated member of the Legislative Council for 28 years.  In the 1950s, Douglas Bailey bought the other plantation house, now known as the Creole Institute at Saint Joseph Estate at Au Cap. The couple made generous donations towards the construction of many Anglican churches in Seychelles. In 1969, the Colonial Government bought the house and the estate for R1,133,348.33 cents.

Fortunately, a sample of the antiques that once furnished the sitting room has been preserved; a couple of chairs of artisanal wickerwork, a console table with cambriole legs and thank goodness, the old bureau, the escritoire where ‘old Bailey’ must have spent many hours working on his ‘flowering plants and ferns of Seychelles.’ (Pub:1961). There is also the old John Brimsmeade piano from which Dolly probably coaxed some melodies of Chopin.

A covered walk at the back of the house leads to the traditional creole kitchen where, besides the wood stove, many items evoked the culinary memories of yesteryear.  There is the kokotye (the half of coco de mer nut in which rice was washed before being put in the cooking pot), the lavann (a flat basket of woven pandanus in which rice was winnowed), the kapatia (a basket of woven coconut fronds in which fruits and vegetables were kept) and of course the indispensable marmit (cooking pot made of cast iron).  Anything and everything was cooked in the marmit.  Nearby, stands a massive towering breadfruit tree whose fruits must have been part of the plantation workers’ meal then.

There is a replica of the servant’s dwelling house.  Built of timber on squat stone pillars, it is a modest structure in which the servant slept.  The wooden walls are entirely covered with pages of newspapers and magazines.  The dwelling has three compartments:  The small living room with the photograph of the Royal family of Windsor, the bedroom and the kitchen.

The Domaine de Val des Près was originally inaugurated on Monday October 24, 1988 by Minister James Michel to launch the 3^rd Creole Festival.  This heritage project was financed by the U.S government during the time when the American Ambassador to Seychelles was James Byron Moran (1930-2009).

To complete the traditional ensemble, a craft village was constructed, comprising twelve workshops where local artists and artisans create batiks, handicrafts painting and macramé work for tourists to buy when they come to visit. There is also a whole gamut of local products such as coconut oil, tea and vanilla.

“The flowers will bloom just in time for the opening in April,” Benjamine Rose, the chief executive of the Seychelles Heritage Foundation says to me. We are on the verandah of the house watching a couple of gardeners tending to the newly planted flowers on the edges of the large triangular lawn. Indeed, vyey fiy (red sage) and roz anmer (Madagascar peri winkle) are eminently appropriate. Both feature in Seychellois lore of medical plants, having curative properties for various ailments. Further away, some Indian workers are completing work on a total of 14 kiosks which have been designed by Seychellois architect, Brian Changty-Sing to replace the old dozen ones of wood that three decades of sun, rain and termites had reduced to the opposite of picturesqueness. The new ones are made of masonry but skillfully designed to have the deceptively pleasant rustic appearance of being constructed of timber.

We have just ended another of our monthly session meetings, having decided to hold it here at the Domaine de Val des Près so that members of the Board can appreciate the renovation work that is being done.

“I’m really impressed with the rate of progress,” she tells me. “And they’ve been at it for hardly three weeks.” I share her satisfaction. I nod my approval. Ms Rose, formerly the principal secretary for Culture, was appointed the new chief executive of the Seychelles Heritage Foundation in July of 2017.

On December 15, 2017, the President appointed a new eight-member board of directors to administer the transactions and business matters of SHF. It was on December 21, 2006 that Act II established the Seychelles Heritage Foundation which among its 7 objectives, the first is “To identify, Conserve and Promote the Cultural Heritage of Seychelles.” Four Heritage sites have been assigned to SHF: Ex-Plantation House, La Plaine Au Cap (Takamaka Bay), Mission Ruins, Sans Soucis, Bel Ombre Treasure site and Domaine de Val des Près, Au Cap.

Upon taking up the helm of the 11-year-old SHF, Ms Rose embarked on an ambitious and not undaunting task to revive the creole image and the economic assets of the place which is one of the most visited heritage sites in Seychelles.

During its monthly session meetings for the last six months, the board of directors in collaboration with the chief executive have explored and debated on various avenues of cultural and economic exploitation for Domaine de Val des Près. Yes, we have devised our own ‘Strategic Plan’ to make the Domaine de Val des Près a success story in a couple of years and its re-opening yesterday evening (April 20, 2018) during the Heritage week is just the beginning.

“This is the ideal place where cultural recreations and heritage activities can be organised so that visitors and local residents may meet and socialize,” says Ms Rose with great optimism.

There is also a creole restaurant that offers the spicy delights of our creole cuisine.  Standing here in the yard under the breadfruit tree, one can imagine those workers husking coconuts… women laying out cinnamon barks in the sun to dry… the aroma of patchouli… the scent of vanilla… yes, the savour of salted fish curry… pumpkin chutney with chilli… and grilled mackerels with boiled breadfruit… creole, indeed.

“What a lovely place” – a Swedish visitor exclaims.

“Old place with a lot of memory” – remarks someone from UAE.

“Superbe! A conserver en L’état” – says La Reunion.

“Amazing. Brilliant!”…a mesmerised visitor from Palestine.

“Can I buy the house?” asks a French visitor in English.

Non. Certainement pas!

Source : Seychelles NATION

The Craft Village at the Domaine de Val des Près, Au Cap, officially re-opened its doors to visitors on Friday evening after two and a half months of renovation work on the artisanal facilities found there.

It was Vice-President Vincent Meriton, assisted by the chief executive of the Seychelles Heritage Foundation, Benjamine Rose, who had the honour of cutting the ribbon to officially re-open the village.

The re-opening of the Craft Village formed part of activities to mark the World Heritage Week on April 18.

Present were the Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Maurice Loustau-Lalanne; the Mayor of Victoria, David Andre; principal secretaries; chief executives; members of the National Assembly and of the diplomatic corps, kiosk owners and other invitees.

Renovation work done by phase on the boutiques and workshop studios, among which twelve of them have had extensive repairs, has cost R1.1 million.

Most of the tenants are returning clients. They are renting smaller or larger kiosks at R2250 and R3300 per month.

In her speech for the occasion, Ms Rose said that providing the artisans with conducive working environment will enable them to express their creative abilities through exquisite craft products which are made available to tourists and locals.

She also emphasised that young people should be encouraged to see creative subjects as a potential goal to be explored and developed into passionate and profitable businesses.

“This makes us realise the importance of our arts, culture and creative industries and why we should encourage its development for our future national wellbeing and prosperity,” she added, noting that government is putting in place provisions to create an enabling business environment for the art and craft sections as an important contribution to job creation, skills development and self-empowerment.

Ms Rose also said that the facilities will be closely monitored and maintained in the future.

All the tenants expressed satisfaction with the renovation work done and one of them, Joel Bananne, who specialises in essential oil products from coconut, said the renovation gives the area an air of beauty and cleanliness that will attract visitors.

Joel had the honour of welcoming the first group of visitors after the ribbon cutting at his kiosk which he has occupied for thirty years.

Another artisan, artist Colbert Nourrice, who has been displaying his art work at the village for the past nineteen years, said the new look of the kiosks makes them feel more secure, without having to worry about their work being destroyed when it rains.

A representative of 7 Degrees South, Lindy Cadeau, was also impressed with the renovation work on the kiosks and said that the live demonstrations of artisanal work by the artists in the village will definitely be a plus to foreign visitors who are in search of such activities.

During the ceremony, stakeholders were presented with brochures on the history of the Domaine de Val des Près.

Later after visiting the different kiosks, the guests were invited to a soft opening of a restaurant/café, ‘Cuisine et Vins’, at the Maison Marengo run by Kevin Marengo.

The accompanying photographs show guests interacting with the artisans in their workshops after the official re-opening of the village.

Source : Seychelles NATION

In 1863, Bahá’u’lláh (Glory of God) first announced His Divine Mission as a Messenger of God during the 12 days He called the days of Paradise (i.e. “Ridván”).  This event took place in a rose-filled garden full of singing birds, where family and friends stayed in large tents across the river Tigris.

It was a brief interlude in the 40 years of the persecution, exile and imprisonment of Bahá’u’lláh.  Each year Bahá’ís commemorate these joyous, significant days, the “Festival of God”, the beginning of the Faith.

About this Revelation, Bahá’u’lláh wrote: “This is the Voice of God, if ye do but hearken. This is the Day Spring of the Revelation of God, did ye but know it. This is the Dawning-Place of the Cause of God, were ye to recognize it.”

Because Baha’u’llah spoke out against all forms of tyranny and oppression, the Ridvan period is also designated as the time when Baha’is around the world elect the institutions that will serve them during the coming year. Baha’is have no clergy, so Baha’i communities are administered by elected bodies of nine people called assemblies. Elections for Baha’i local spiritual assemblies (in every locality where Baha’is reside) and national spiritual assemblies (in every country) are held each year during the twelve days of Ridvan. All Bahá’í elections occur through secret ballot and plurality vote, without candidacies, nominations or campaigning. Every five years, the international body, the universal house of justice is elected during this same period. Although these assembles interact with their communities regularly to present financial and activity/progress reports, consult on plans, air their grievances, etc they abide by their stipulated mandate before God as “and are not responsible only to their electors”.

In gathering to say prayers and silently cast their ballots for the institutions that will help inspire and guide them through the year, Baha’is symbolically renew their covenant with Baha’u’llah, affirm the Baha’i teachings on freedom of thought, liberty of conscience and right of speech, and redeem that momentous declaration in the Garden of Ridvan, affirming the structure of a living world community established in Baha’u’llah’s name.

Regarding these assemblies it is written: “The first condition is absolute love and harmony amongst the members of the assembly. They must be wholly freed from estrangement and must manifest in themselves the Unity of God, for they are the waves of one sea, the drops of one river, the stars of one heaven, the rays of one sun, the trees of one orchard, the flowers of one garden.

“The second condition: they must when coming together turn their faces to the Kingdom on High and ask aid from the Realm of Glory. They must then proceed with the utmost devotion, courtesy, dignity, care and moderation to express their views. They must in every matter search out the truth and not insist upon their own opinion, for stubbornness and persistence in one’s views will lead ultimately to discord and wrangling and the truth will remain hidden. The honoured members must with all freedom express their own thoughts, and it is in no wise permissible for one to belittle the thought of another, nay, he must with moderation set forth the truth, and should differences of opinion arise a majority of voices must prevail, and all must obey and submit to the majority. It is again not permitted that any one of the honoured members object to or censure, whether in or out of the meeting, any decision arrived at previously though that decision be not right, for such criticism would prevent any decision from being enforced. In short, whatsoever thing is arranged in harmony and with love and purity of motive, its result is light, and should the least trace of estrangement prevail the result shall be darkness upon darkness… If this be so regarded, that assembly shall be of God, but otherwise it shall lead to coolness and alienation…

“Discussions must all be confined to spiritual matters that pertain to the training of souls, the instruction of children, the relief of the poor, the help of the feeble throughout all classes in the world, kindness to all peoples, the diffusion of the fragrances of God and the exaltation of His Holy Word. Should they endeavour to fulfil these conditions the Grace of the Holy Spirit shall be vouchsafed unto them, and that assembly shall become the centre of the Divine blessings, the hosts of Divine confirmation shall come to their aid, and they shall day by day receive a new effusion of Spirit. “

In Seychelles, this April 2018, eight members of the Seychelles National Spiritual Assembly will take part in the international convention held in Israel, as delegates, to elect the new Universal House of Justice comprising nine members elected from amongst all the Baha’is of the world. On the 20th night, celebrations were held in all 12 localities on Mahe and inner islands, their local institution elected while on April 21 at 3pm, a national commemoration was held on the exact time that Baha’u’llah proclaims publicly His Mission to a small group of believers – the first trumpet sound!

Source : Seychelles NATION