The first 12-unit mid-range condominium housing project at Anse Réunion, La Digue, officially got underway today as President Dr Patrick Herminie laid the foundation stone and unveiled a commemorative plaque for the development, reaffirming the constitutional commitment to improving the quality of life of Seychellois through access to decent housing.

The ceremony, attended by First Lady Mrs Véronique Herminie, Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Principal Minister Mr Wallace Cosgrow, Minister for Education and Human Resource Development Mr David Pierre, Minister for Local Government and Inner Islands Ms Eveline Rose, members of the National Day Committee, officials from the Ministry of Lands and Housing, and invited guests, coincided with Constitution Day celebrations and formed part of the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary commemorations. It also marked the final activity of the Constitutional Day programme on La Digue, the country’s third most populated island.

The ceremony truly reflects the principles enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution of Seychelles, which affirms the nation's commitment to dignity, social justice, and an improved quality of life for all citizens. It also underscores ongoing efforts to translate these ideals into tangible support through access to adequate housing.

Setting the tone for the ceremony, the elected Member of the National Assembly, Hon. Rocky Uranie, expressed his joy and emotion at witnessing the commencement of the project, noting his deep personal connection to the area, which holds cherished childhood memories. He further conveyed his hope for the successful completion of the development and extended gratitude to all those who contributed to making the project a reality for the people of La Digue.

“I stand before you filled with joy, and I am also a little emotional because this is the place where I used to play and spend time during my childhood. About 200 metres from here is my mother’s home, where I grew up and spent almost all of my childhood," said Mr Uranie.

He added, "on that note, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the US administration, and also thank Vice-President Pillay who, in his capacity as Minister for Lands and Housing, is helping to make this project a reality for the people of La Digue.”

The foundation stone was laid by President Herminie, together with Vice-President Pillay and Mr Uranie. This was followed  by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by President Herminie and Hon. Mr Uranie, alongside the Vice-President Pillay and Principal Minister Mr Cosgrow as witnesses.

In his remarks, the Vice President of the Republic, Sebastien Pillay, highlighted the government’s appreciation for the efforts invested in ensuring that this project comes to fruition, particularly noting the increasing demand for housing, especially through requests received by the Office of the First Lady, Ministry of Local Government, and the Ministry of Lands and Housing. He concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to achieving its target of constructing 2,000 houses for the people of Seychelles.

The project is expected to commence in two months’ time and is scheduled for completion within 12 months, under the contract of Vijay Construction (PTY) LTD, marking another step forward in advancing Government’s commitment to improving housing conditions and responding to the needs of the people of La Digue.