The conference was held on 09th to 10th February 2024 under the theme “Towards a Stable and Sustainable Indian Ocean”. Delegations led by Ministers from over 22 countries participated in this yearly event, with senior officials from 16 countries and 6 multilateral organizations. The conference also saw the participation of 400 social and corporate leaders, policy practitioners, scholars, professionals, and media personnel from 40 countries. The programme comprised of plenary sessions with speakers discussing various issues focusing on maritime security, sustainability and the blue economy.

Minister Fonseka addressed the conference as a speaker on the panel which was discussing the theme of, “Our Blue Future”. During his address, the Minister outlined the importance of the blue economy as a powerful instrument and sustainable model to address challenges. He further emphasized on the intersection of the blue economy and maritime security which is fundamental for regional prosperity and stability.

Minister Fonseka also held bilateral meetings with Dr. Jung Pak, the United Sates Deputy Secretary for Multilateral Affairs, Mr. Tim Watts, Assistant Foreign Minister of Australia and Professor Velayoudom Marimoutou, the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Commission.

There was mutual agreement on the need to collaborate and promote maritime security within the Indian Ocean on account of the existing and re-emerging threats which poses a risk to regional and economic stability. This also encompasses the need to address the broad spectrum of illegal maritime activities so as to ensure that sea lines of communications essential for economic and food security remain unhindered.

In his address during the Conference, Professor Velayoudom Marimoutou, the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Commission, touched on the importance of the two regional centres; the Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre (RMIFC) based in Madagascar and the Regional Centre for Operational Coordination (RCOC), based in Seychelles in terms of joint surveillance missions, crucial to the security of South Est Indian Ocean; pledging the following as he prepares to hand-over the leadership of IOC to Seychelles in May 2024. “Currently, we are focused on the Western Indian Ocean, but we can easily expand to the rest of the ocean and beyond by creating a network with other initiatives and mechanisms.”

During his visit to Australia, the Minister also had the opportunity to meet with the Regional Director of West Australia for Home Affairs, Ms. Samantha Patuto, and discussed topics of border control and security. The Minister also visited the Australian Border Force ports & airport facilities.

The Minister was accompanied by Captain Gerald Wong-Pool, Director of the National Information Sharing & Coordination Centre (NISCC) and Regional Fusion & Law Enforcement Centre for Safety & Security at Sea (REFLECS3).

The Minister for Internal Affairs Mr. Charles E. Fonseka attended the Prison Service Week ceremony at Montagne Posee Prison yesterday afternoon. The Seychelles Prison Service (SPS) recognized employees for their exceptional work and confirmed new recruits into posts. The event also recognized retiring and departed staff of the SPS. Minister Fonseka and the Commissioner of Prisons  Mr. Raymond St Ange, cut the ribbon to a new recreational room equipped with a Play Station 4 console for inmates who demonstrate good behavior.

The Minister for Internal Affairs received a courtesy call from the newly accredited High Commissioner of Tanzania Dr. John Simbachawene. The meeting focused on discussions of maritime security and highlighted the successful relationship between the Tanzania Prison Services(TPS) and the Seychelles Prison Services(SPS).

In attendance was the Commissioner of Police Ted Barbe, Commissioner of Prisons Mr. Raymond St Ange, Director of Regional Centers Captain Wong-Pool.

The Minister for Internal Affairs visited the Seychelles Fire & Rescue Services Agency Headquarters (SFRSA) where he was given a tour of the two new fire trucks which were added to the fleet of fire trucks used by the agency.

The tour was led by now retired Chief Fire Officer Mr. Albert Rose and his team. He explained that these new machines would allow for additional transportation of water which would assist the larger machines.

These new additions would also facilitate access to areas that are often difficult to reach in the higher capacity machines. The new trucks are equipped with various firefighting equipment and safety mechanisms which also includes 750,000litres capacity for water and the option of dispensing foam.

During his visit Minister Fonseka spoke words of encouragement to the young recruits and highlighted the importance of inclusivity within the force. He encouraged the female recruits to not give up and strive for success. He also emphasized the importance of training and surpassing all expectations to save lives.

The Minister for Internal Affairs Mr. Charles E. Fonseka, visits the Immigration and Civil Status Department. He was accompanied by the Principle Secretary for Immigration and Civil Status Mr. Alain Volcere. During his visit he met several employees from various sections and received feedback on operations and the constraints they face.

Minister Fonseka proposed new ideas on how to improve operations and workflow. The main focus of the discussions revolved around customer satisfaction and he emphasized how the department should value each and every customer.

He concluded his visit at the Customer Service Centre located on the ground floor of the Independence House building. He greeted members of the public who were waiting in the que for service or payment.

The feedback from the clients were positive as many highlighted the improvement in waiting time and how the customer care agents looked more professional in their new uniforms.

The Minister spoke to employees of the centre and reviewed operations. He was briefed on the new changes to operations of the Civil Status and upcoming projects.

The President of the Republic Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan honoured a team of SFRSA officers yesterday afternoon at State House. The event was a courtesy call to the President to recognize the valiant efforts of the SFRSA officers who attended to the ammonia leak incident on June 15th as well as honour retired Chief Fire Officer Mr. Albert Rose.

Mr. Rose served for 45 years with the agency and retired in July. In his remarks the Minister for Internal Mr. Charles E. Fonseka described Mr. Rose as an admirable example of perseverance and leadership as well as strong discipline and devotion to duty, “a fireman who still glows with fire” said Minister Fonseka. The Minister addressed the SFRSA team stating, “I wish to commend you all on this feat of selfless commitment to duty. Remember, there were many lessons learnt and work to improve. Safety and efficiency is always ongoing. Keep up the great work and thank you”.

President Ramkalawan praised the team and spoke words of encouragement and gratitude. The President spoke on several incidents where he witnessed the firefighters in action putting their lives on the line for the safety of others. The officers each received a token from the President and had the opportunity to converse with the President, Vice-President Mr. Ahmed Afif and Minister Fonseka after the ceremony.