The Minister of Internal Affairs, Charles Fonseka, represented Seychelles at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Oman, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration in maritime security, economic resilience, and sustainable ocean governance.
During the ministerial panel session, Minister Fonseka addressed key areas of concern:
Maritime Security – The Minister underscored the need for enhanced coordination to combat piracy, illicit trafficking, and regional instability.
Combating Illicit Activities – Minister Fonseka announced Seychelles’ Chairmanship of the Contact Group on Illicit Maritime Activities (CGIMA) and provided updates on the development of a Smuggling of Migrants Bill to strengthen Seychelles’ legal framework.
Blue Economy & Climate Action – He also advocated for innovative financial mechanisms and emphasized the urgent need for strengthened climate commitments to safeguard the region’s maritime resources.
"Let us work together to build a just and secure maritime future," stated Minister Fonseka.
The Minister was accompanied by Major Gerald Wong-Pool, Director of the National Information Sharing and Coordination Centre (NISCC), and Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure, Executive Director of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministers’ Secretariat.
The Minister of Internal Affairs welcomed the newly accredited Ambassador Designate of Japan to the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Sakuta Makoto congratulating him on his appointment as the first resident ambassador of Japan to Seychelles.
Seychelles reaffirmed its appreciation for Japan's steadfast partnership, which has significantly bolstered bilateral relations since 1976, spanning key sectors like fisheries, the blue economy, disaster risk management, capacity building and maritime security.Highlighting Japan's support, the Minister acknowledged the 2019 grant for construction of the Marine Police and Anti-Narcotic Centre at Perseverance. This initiative which is ongoing will enhance Seychelles' maritime law enforcement and safety.
The Minister also commended Japan's collaboration with the UNODC’s Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP), which has strengthened Seychelles' maritime security through technical assistance and training for over 50 officers in 2023.Discussions focused on advancing Seychelles-Japan bilateral relations, particularly in maritime security, law enforcement capacity building and disaster risk management.
Minister Fonseka emphasized the importance of this partnership and expressed optimism for further collaboration in safeguarding the region's waters. The meeting was attended by Mr. Allain Volcere Principal Secretary of the Department of Immigration & Civil Status , Mr. Francis Songoire Deputy Commissioner of the Seychelles Police Force , Captain Gerard Wong-Pool – Director of National Information Sharing and Coordination Centre (NISCC) and Catherina Bonnelame – Senior Risk Management Officer of the Disaster Risk Management Division.
The Minister of Internal Affairs recently met with Ms. Maria Martinez, Head of Cluster Delegation for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), accompanied by Ms. Marie-May Esparon, Secretary General of the Red Cross Society of Seychelles.
During the meeting, Ms. Martinez highlighted ongoing collaborative projects between the IFRC, the Division of Risk and Disaster Management (DRMD), and other government entities to enhance disaster risk management efforts. She commended Seychelles for its significant progress in implementing planned initiatives and encouraged broader departmental support to establish effective early warning systems.
The Minister expressed gratitude for the team's dedication and reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing disaster preparedness and resilience. Also in attendance were Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure, Executive Director of the Minister’s Secretariat, and Mr. Jean-Yves Joseph, Programme Coordinator for the Red Cross Society of Seychelles.
Minister Fonseka embarked on his annual Christmas Day visits to express heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated men and women serving in our emergency and security services.
Starting at 8:00 a.m., the Minister visited:
Montagne Posée Prison Anse Boileau Police Station Anse Royale Fire Station Anse Royale Police Station Anse Aux Pins Police Station Seychelles International Airport (Immigration & Police) Mont Fleuri Police Station Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency, Victoria Central Police StationAt each stop, Minister Fonseka personally thanked the officers working on Christmas Day, acknowledging their commitment to keeping our communities safe while others celebrate with their loved ones.
“Your dedication does not go unnoticed. On behalf of the government and the people of Seychelles, I thank you for your sacrifice and wish you a Merry Christmas,” he stated.
The Minister’s annual visits aims to show appreciation for the professionalism and courage of those on the front lines , ensuring our safety and security even during the festive season.
The Minister of Internal Affairs Mr. Charles Fonseka met with Mr. David O'Connell, Head of Programme at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Ms. Leila le Hane, Programme Manager UNODC Seychelles and Mr. Rodrigo Contreras, MLE Planner to discuss ongoing partnerships and future initiatives.
The Minister expressed gratitude towards UNODCs support and spoke of for Seychelles' strategic role in facilitating information sharing and collaboration within the region. Mr. O'Connell acknowledged Seychelles’ continued support and emphasized the importance of our unique location in advancing UNODC’s programs.
Key discussion points included:
Future projects for 2025 and expanded partnerships, such as developments at the Marie-Louise prison and enhanced officer training programs. Upcoming UNODC programs for next year, with a pledge of further support to strengthen Seychelles' efforts in combating crime.The development of the Academy of Excellence, a key initiative by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. This academy will focus on the specialized training of law enforcement personnel, with particular attention to addressing maritime crimes and legal finishing.
This meeting underscores our shared commitment to fostering security, justice, and capacity-building in Seychelles and beyond. Together, we continue to build a safer and more resilient region. The meeting was also attended by the Executive Director of the Ministers Secretariat Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs held its final Oath of Allegiance ceremony for the year 2024. The event, presided over by the Principal Secretary for the Immigration Department, Mr. Allain Volcere, marked a significant milestone for 12 individuals who have successfully met the criteria to be granted citizenship.
The ceremony highlighted the culmination of the individuals' journeys toward becoming citizens, underscoring the values of loyalty and commitment to the nation. In his address, the Minister of Internal Affairs Mr. Charles Fonseka congratulated the new citizens, encouraging them to uphold their responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to the country.
The ceremony signifies the Ministry’s ongoing dedication to fostering inclusivity and adherence to the nation’s immigration and citizenship laws.
The Republic of Seychelles actively participated in the Ordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government, which was held on 20th November 2024 in Harare, Republic of Zimbabwe. This significant event was chaired by H.E. Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, under the overarching theme of peace, security, and regional stability.
Representing President Wavel Ramkalawan at the Summit was Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka. Seychelles joined fellow Member States in discussions focused on addressing critical issues impacting the region, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing security and humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
During the Summit, Member States expressed profound concern over the worsening situation in the eastern DRC, which continues to have grave implications for peace and stability within the region. The leaders reaffirmed SADC’s unwavering commitment to finding a lasting and sustainable resolution to the conflict, reiterating the importance of regional solidarity in achieving peace, stability, and security in the DRC.
The Summit also celebrated the successful holding of peaceful elections in the Republics of Mozambique, Botswana, and Mauritius. Member States extended their congratulations to the newly elected leaders, commending the commitment of these nations to democratic processes and governance.
The Seychelles delegation called for enhanced and coordinated efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC. The delegation underscored the importance of adopting a collaborative approach, bringing together all relevant stakeholders to work within the established framework for coordinating and harmonizing peace initiatives and processes across the region. Seychelles reiterated its steadfast support for SADC’s mission to promote peace, security, and development in the region.
The Summit marked yet another milestone in fostering regional unity and collaboration among SADC Member States. Seychelles remains committed to its role as an active member of the community, advocating for policies and initiatives that prioritize peace, human rights and sustainable development for all. The Minister was accompanied by the Director of the National Information Sharing Coordination Center (NISCC) Captain Gerald Wong-Pool, Director General for Regional Affairs Mr. Christian Faure and Executive Director of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministers Secretariat Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure.
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