Official Launch of the Seychelles Centre of Excellence

The Government of Seychelles, in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) and with the support of the United States Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), officially inaugurated the Seychelles Centre of Excellence on August 21st, 2025.

 

The Centre will serve as a regional platform for training, operational mentoring, and professional development in maritime law enforcement and judicial cooperation, further strengthening security in the Western Indian Ocean.

 

In his address, the Minister of Internal Affairs emphasized that the centre represents a major milestone in strengthening law enforcement capabilities across the Western Indian Ocean. He highlighted that, it will equip professionals with the skills to respond effectively to maritime threats, ensure successful legal outcomes, and enhance the collection of intelligence and forensic evidence. He further underlined that the establishment of the Centre reflects Seychelles’ firm commitment to implementing the Regional Drugs Strategy adopted at the Ministerial Conference on Drugs in Mauritius in April 2024.

 

The ceremony was attended Minister for Health Mrs Peggy Vidot , Minister for Employment and Social Affairs Mrs Patricia Francourt, Commissioner of the Seychelles Police Ted Barbe, Chief of the Seychelles Defense Forces Major General Micheal Rosette, Charge D'Affaires of the U.S Embassy Mr. Adham Loutfi as well as regional and international partners.