Seychelles is proud of its African historical links, says minister

THE Seychelles are never left behind when it also comes to national pride. The archipelago is proud to be rooted in the African continent even though nature has taken them to the Indian Ocean.

At the event, FetAfrik, a celebration of Africa Day in Seychelles rated amongst the most important events for the islanders, the Seychellois affirmed to this assertion of being proud of its African historical links. The Minister for Tourism and Culture Alain St. Ange said this when responding to questions on the famous and popular radio programme Lanbyans Tropikal, in the Island’s capital city, Victoria.

The Minister was accompanied by the principal secretary for culture Benjamine Rose and popular local artist Stephen Eliza, whose stage name is Elijah.

St. Ange, who holds the culture portfolio alongside tourism, said that Seychelles needed to be proud of each of the five branches making the Seychellois nation that it is today.

“For the Seychellois to better appreciate this FetAfrik event the islands as a whole need to learn about the rich cultures of Africa, and this the FetAfrik 2016 celebrations are doing by bringing in cultural groups from mainland Africa to take part in the upcoming FetAfrik inclusive of professional guests speakers who will be sharing their vast knowledge with us,” Minister St. Ange said.

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“Often we hear people say they are not Africans, but I say to you that you do not have to be born in Africa to be considered an African, but you become an African with Africa in born in you. When you value your link with the African continent this builds in you the characteristics of an African,” Minister St. Ange said.

He added that FetAfrik like other events organised in Seychelles, is for the people of Seychelles. Minister St.Ange has called on members of the public to take part in the event and give it the recognition and value that it deserves.

FetAfrik will this year be held from May 22-28 and activities will vary from gala dinners, musical shows, public lecture and workshops. The official ceremony will be held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles in Victoria on May 25, which will coincide with the Africa Day. The theme for this Africa Day celebrations is Human rights with a particular focus on the rights of women.

Miss Benjamine Rose, the spokesperson for culture, spoke on the official ceremony which she said will be an event where members of the public can attend. Those wishing to grace the opening with their presence can do so by getting free tickets at the National Cultural Centre.

On his part, Elijah gave details of the international show on May 28 at the mini stadium in Victoria, with tickets costing only R100.

Top African musicians who have made their mark in the world such as Radio & Weasel from Uganda, and Prophecy from Mauritius will be performing alongside our local stars at this year’s musical show.