Seychelles Mission

08 August 2011

WWT Consulting investigates sustainable development and eco-tourism options in Seychelles

Rebecca Woodward and Marie Orchard have just returned from an international mission to the Seychelles, facilitated by Mr (Paul) Bond, our International Deal Maker from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI). During their stay, they met with Alain St.Ange, the CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board and his Deputy, Elsia Grandcourt.

It is hoped that WWT Consulting’s experience might be useful to influence sustainable development in the Seychelles, for the benefit of people and the environment, and the Tourism Board's opinion regarding urgent projects that would enhance key tourism attractions of Seychelles was imperative to our mission. Sustainable eco-tourism development, including integrated water resource management to maximize the natural resources and wildlife of Seychelles, was a key component of discussions.

The rehabilitation of the marsh of the island of La Digue is one such example where our experience might be useful, as this could diminish the risk of floods in the plateau of La Digue, and also provide for the natural setting for birds, migratory fowls and the La Digue unique terrapins.

‘The old marsh of La Digue could become a feature we can market as an attraction and it could provide for a new excursion for the Diguois to take their visitors to. La Digue remains a key tourism destination in Seychelles and the more we can work with partners to enhance our existing habitats, the more complete a destination we shall be’ said Alain St.Ange.

Rebecca, Marie and Paul also met with other agencies, such as the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) and Nature Seychelles, and with Government departments, including the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Investment, Natural Resources and Industry.