During a ceremony held yesterday afternoon, the President officially opened the Les Mamelles Affordable Housing Estate in the presence of the Vice President, the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, and the elected Member for Les Mamelles, Honourable Bernard Georges.

The opening of the project marks the Government's commitment to providing quality housing for Seychellois families. It forms part of the long-standing Les Mamelles Redevelopment Project, an urban renewal initiative launched to transform the community by replacing ageing colonial-era housing with modern, well-planned residential accommodation, while also improving infrastructure and the overall living environment.

In his remarks, Honourable Bernard Georges thanked the Government for the completion of the development, describing it as a significant investment in the redevelopment of housing estates. He said the initiative would have a positive impact on the Les Mamelles district and the lives of the eight new homeowners. He added that the project reflects the Government's commitment to ensuring that Seychellois families have safe, comfortable and dignified homes.

Vice President Mr Sebastien Pillay, in his address, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to the redevelopment of housing estates across the country. He explained that the Lower Les Mamelles redevelopment is being implemented in phases and forms part of a 24-unit housing project. The first phase, comprising eight two-bedroom units, has now been completed.

The Vice President further stated that the project cost the Government SCR 8.3 million, with an additional SCR 3 million invested in retaining walls and land development. He also expressed his appreciation to the contractors, and everyone involved in bringing the project to completion and helping to make the dream of home ownership a reality for the eight families.

During the vote of thanks, one of the new homeowners, Ms Kurchia, expressed her gratitude and said she felt honoured and privileged to receive the keys to her new home. She described the occasion as a life-changing investment for her family and encouraged others who are still waiting for housing to remain hopeful, emphasising that perseverance and patience can one day turn dreams into reality.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were the Principal Minister, the Leader of Government Business, Ministers, homeowners, contractors and other distinguished guests.