Dear Members of the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency,
On this significant occasion of International Firefighters Day, I extend my deepest respect and heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering courage, dedication, and service. Today, May 4th, we recognize the extraordinary men and women who protect our communities, often at great personal risk, and we pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
International Firefighters Day was established following the tragic loss of five brave firefighters in Australia in December 1998. The call to honour their memory, made by Australian firefighter JJ Edmondson, resonated globally and led to this annual observance. This date fittingly coincides with the feast day of Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, symbolizing strength, courage, and selflessness.
In Seychelles, your role extends far beyond responding to emergencies. You are the frontline guardians of our nation, educating the public, preventing disasters, and providing strength in moments of crisis. This year's theme, “Protecting Our Communities and Dedication to Service,” perfectly reflects the values you embody every day.
Your work demands bravery in the face of danger, professionalism in the face of chaos, and compassion in the face of loss. It is not merely a job; it is a calling, one that you answer with remarkable resilience, humility, and integrity.
As the Minister responsible for fire services, I reaffirm the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting your mission. Whether through improved resources, access to training, or the recognition you rightly deserve, we stand with you today and every day.
Your service is not only vital but also inspirational. On behalf of the entire nation, thank you for the sacrifices you make, the lives you save, and the hope you bring. We honour you, appreciate you, and stand with you proudly as you continue to safeguard our communities with courage and unwavering determination.
Stay safe, stay proud in your vital mission, and know that your nation stands with you.
Charles E. Fonseka
Minister of Internal Affairs
On this special occasion of Labour Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all employees across the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Today, we celebrate not only the value of hard work but also the unwavering commitment, professionalism, and resilience that each of you brings to our mission.
Your contributions are the foundation of our success. To every department and agency, your dedication is indispensable.
Seychelles Police Force, thank you for your courage and commitment on the front-lines, upholding law and order every day.
Seychelles Prison Services, your efforts in rehabilitation and transformation rebuild lives and strengthen our society.
Immigration and Civil Status, your diligence protects our borders and upholds the identity of our nation with pride.
Disaster Risk Management Division, often working behind the scenes, you are our shield against natural and man-made threats.
Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency, your bravery and skill in moments of crisis make you true everyday heroes.
We also recognize the critical role of the National Information Sharing and Coordination Centre, the Regional Coordination Operations Centre, the Trafficking in Persons Secretariat and the Cybersecurity Security Secretariat. Your work ensures maritime security, regional stability, the protection of the most vulnerable in our society as well as safeguarding our digital infrastructure.
A special tribute goes to the Internal Affairs Secretariat, the backbone of our Ministry. Your unwavering dedication forms the foundation of everything we achieve. Though your work may often go unseen, its impact resonates in every success. You are the steady force that keeps our Ministry moving forward, enabling us to serve our nation with excellence. For this, we are profoundly grateful.
As your Minister, I am committed to fostering a work environment that prioritizes growth, well-being, and teamwork. Your welfare remains a top priority, and together, we will continue to pursue innovation through our digitalisation programme, collaboration, and excellence in service delivery.
Equally important is that all Heads review their respective departments corporate culture, alongside integrity and ethical best practices. On behalf of the Government of Seychelles, I thank each of you with deep respect and gratitude. Let us move forward with strength, purpose, and pride in serving our nation.
Happy Labour Day!
As we observe the 10th World Day against Trafficking in Persons, our focus is on the most vulnerable amongst us – children. The 2024 theme” Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking”, stresses on the urgency of protecting the youngest and most vulnerable victims. This year’s theme calls for increased efforts to end Child trafficking, a grievous crime affecting millions each year including Seychelles.
Human trafficking is not just a violation of human rights, it is a stark reminder of the darkest corners of our society where greed and exploitation thrive. It preys on the vulnerable, robbing them of their dignity, their freedom and their future. The UNODC global report 2022 stipulates that female victims are subjected to physical or extreme violence at the hand of traffickers, at a rate three times higher than males, while children are subjected to physical or extreme violence at a rate almost two times higher than adults.
Child trafficking is not just a distant issue seen in movies or from the news overseas; it is a pervasive reality that touches every community including ours. The victims could be children from our community, attending the same school as you or your children, shopping at the same shop or supermarket or even a family member. These faces though may not always be physically marked with hardship or suffering, need our attention and action. The physical and psychological scars of these crimes persists long into adulthood, robbing them of their innocence, futures and fundamental rights.
Children account for about one third of trafficking victims worldwide and they do not end up in these dire circumstances on their own. They are often overlooked victims by the adults who have failed to protect them, and which may have led to their poverty, trauma and hardship, thus increasing their susceptibility to trafficking.
Rising inequalities and globalization have fueled complex trafficking networks that challenge traditional legal frameworks, creating new forms of slavery. Furthermore, the proliferation of online platforms poses additional risks as children often connect to these sites without adequate safeguards. Traffickers exploit online platforms, social media and the dark web to recruit and exploit children, utilizing technology to evade detection, reach wider audiences, and disseminate exploitative content. These diverse ways expose children to sexual exploitation and gender based violence and allow traffickers to exploit victims both locally and worldwide, and this makes sexual exploitation prevalent among child victims.
Identification and protection of child victims remains challenging due to under reporting, lack of awareness, and inadequate resources for victim support services. Traffickers may often employ coercion, deception and threats to maintain control over their victims, making it difficult for authorities to intervene.
Though Seychelles has reached Tier 1 for another consecutive year, and again as the only country in Africa on the US Trafficking in Persons report, we understand the urgency of this issue. We recognize that human trafficking knows no borders, respects no laws and affects every corner of the globe. Our efforts are not merely about enforcement but about empathy and justice for the victims.
In 2023, we saw 2 cases of potential Child trafficking that was charged before the supreme court. What saddens our community is that both cases indicate more than 1 potential child victim. However, legislative measures alone are not enough. We must tackle the root causes that make individuals susceptible to trafficking. Education and awareness are our greatest tools in this fight. We must empower our communities with knowledge so they can recognize the signs of trafficking and take action.
We are determined to be at the forefront of this global movement. We will continue to strengthen our partnerships, enhance our laws, empower our communities but we cannot do this alone. We need the collaborative support of every single citizen. Let us start with initiating difficult conversations about the topic, at work, at home, at school and wherever we can make an impact. Not only today but every day. Let us renew our collective commitment to protect the vulnerable, prosecute the perpetrators and prevent this crime from ever occurring.
Let us pledge to work together and beyond differences to build a Seychelles where every person, regardless of their circumstances, can live in dignity.
I therefore call on everyone who suspects that another human being is being taken advantage of, abused or trafficked, to not lay a blind eye but to report the injustice and the crime and help bring the perpetrators to justice as this fights involves everyone. If you suspect a person is being trafficked or if you wish to seek help call the Trafficking In Persons Hotline on 144.
On this International Women’s Day, the Ministry of Internal Affairs stands in admiration and appreciation of the incredible women who shape our communities, drive progress, and inspire change.
From the frontline workers safeguarding lives, the mothers nurturing future generations, the leaders shaping policies, to the unsung heroes making a difference every day—your contributions are invaluable.
A special tribute goes to the women serving in law enforcement, fire and rescue and prison services those who courageously protect, serve, and uphold justice in Seychelles. Your dedication, resilience, and excellence in these challenging fields inspire us all and pave the way for future generations.
This year’s theme reminds us to empower, uplift, and create opportunities for all women. Let us continue breaking barriers, advocating for equality, and supporting each other in building a more inclusive and just society.
As we celebrate today, we also reaffirm our commitment to creating a more accessible, empowering, and supportive environment for all women. By fostering mentorship, amplifying voices, and ensuring equal opportunities, we strengthen our collective future.
To all the strong, courageous, and extraordinary women—today and every day, we celebrate you!
Dear Firefighters,
“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” Joseph Campbell.
You are those heroes, and as we commemorate International Firefighters Day, today the 4th of May, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who dedicate your lives to protecting our communities from the ravages of fire and disaster. Today, we honour your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to public safety.
In our modern world, the threat of fire continues to rise with the increase of infrastructure as well as other natural threats, and human activities. But, whatever the consequence, Firefighters are always there and always ready.
Beyond your invaluable contributions during emergencies, you play an integral role in prevention and preparedness efforts. Through education, training, and outreach initiatives, you empower individuals and communities to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. Your dedication to proactive measures underscores your tireless efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
As Minister of Internal Affairs, I am profoundly grateful for your service and dedication to duty. Your professionalism, compassion, and sense of duty inspire us all. On this special day, let us not only recognize your remarkable achievements but also reaffirm our commitment to supporting and honouring the invaluable contributions of firefighters worldwide.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Your courage and commitment make our communities safer, stronger, and more resilient.
We value you!
As the festive season approaches, I want to express my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you. This year presented numerous challenges, yet through your unwavering dedication, we achieved significant progress. Your commitment, whether in the Police Force, Disaster Risk Management, Immigration & Civil Status, Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency, Regional Maritime Security Centers, Trafficking in Persons or my Secretariat, has ensured our nation remains safe, resilient, and moving forward.
Your service often demands sacrifices, especially during times when others celebrate. Your courage, compassion, and professionalism guarantee the smooth operation of vital services and the security of our communities. This selflessness embodies the strength of our Ministry, and I am deeply honored to work alongside such exceptional individuals.
As we look ahead to the New Year, let's reflect on our accomplishments, both individually and as a team. I encourage you all to enjoy this holiday season with loved ones, to rest, and recharge, recognizing the positive impact you've made on the lives of the Seychellois people.
On behalf of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, I wish you and your families peace, joy, and good health this holiday season. May the New Year bring new opportunities to continue serving our country with the same passion and dedication you've demonstrated this year.
Thank you again for your hard work and devotion. Happy Holidays, and I look forward to our continued success in the coming year.
Warmest regards,
Charles E. Fonseka
Minister of Internal Affairs, Seychelles
On this Labour Day, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and commitment in keeping our communities safe and secure. Your tireless efforts and selfless service are the backbone of our nation's resilience and strength. Whether it is protecting our borders, maintaining law and order, responding to emergencies, saving lives or providing services to the public, you demonstrate courage and professionalism every day. Your work often goes unnoticed, but its’ impact reverberates throughout society, providing comfort and security to all.
As we celebrate Labour Day, under this years’ theme “Social Justice and Descent Work For All”, we aim to ensure that every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has equal opportunities to thrive and succeed. This also means dismantling barriers to address systemic inequalities head-on, but it is your responsibility to be even more alert in spotting opportunities and taking the initiative to seize it.
Today let us recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions you make to safeguarding our nation. Labour Day is a moment to reflect on the vital role each of you plays in protecting our communities and upholding our shared values. Your service is integral to the fabric of our society and your dedication is a source of pride for the Ministry and the entire nation. Thank you for your service, your bravery, and your unwavering commitment to duty.
Your dedication inspires us all!
Happy Labour Day!
END
- MINISTER’S MESSAGE FOR INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR DISASTER RISK REDUCTION 2022
- Remarks from the Minister of Internal Affairs Mr. Charles E. Fonseka on the occasion of Police Day
- Message Of The Minister Of Internal Affairs In Observation World Day Against Trafficking In Person
- Message of The Minister Of Internal Affairs In Observation World Day Against Trafficking In Person
- LABOUR DAY MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS MR. CHARLES FONSEKA