A significant milestone was achieved this afternoon with the first stone-laying ceremony for the Anse Royale Indoor Sports Complex. The ceremony, held at Anse Royale, was attended by the President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Hermine, marking the beginning of what will be a major achievement for the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

To commence the ceremony, His Excellency Ahmed Saeed Rashed Alhumaid Alneyadi delivered his remarks, highlighting the strong friendship and collaboration between Seychelles and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He stated that through this project, the partnership extends beyond sport, as it will encourage an active and healthy lifestyle whilst providing opportunities and support for the continued development of sport and future generations.

He further stated that the great leaders of the United Arab Emirates are committed to supporting projects that have direct and long-lasting impacts on communities, as the UAE values its partnership with Seychelles and is pleased to contribute to an initiative that will benefit the people of Seychelles for many years to come.

He thanked the Government of Seychelles and all those involved in making this initiative possible, and stated that he looks forward to seeing the facility filled with joy and success.

During her remarks, Minister Kalsey Belle, on behalf of the Government of Seychelles, expressed the country’s deepest gratitude to the Government of the United Arab Emirates. Addressing His Excellency, she stated that the friendship between the two nations takes tangible form through the support provided by the Government of the UAE. She added that they are not only investing in a sports complex facility but also in the future of Seychelles, and that this remarkable investment reflects the strong bond that unites the two countries and their shared belief in investing in people and communities.

The Minister concluded by noting that construction is a process that requires patience. She encouraged the people of Seychelles to follow the project’s progress with pride, watch it take shape, share its story with their children, and, when its doors finally open, make it a place that belongs to the entire southern community.

The indoor sports complex will provide a modern venue for basketball, volleyball, handball, combat sports, and a variety of other sporting activities. The facility will also include spectator seating and other modern amenities to support athletes and the wider community.

Also in attendance were government ministers, the youth of Anse Royale, and other invited guests, who witnessed this important occasion.