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Journey to Freedom & Resilience: Seychelles Marks 47 Years of Independence

© AFP 2024 ANTHONY WALLACESeychelles' flagbearer Dylan Silobo leads the delegation during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games at the Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast on April 4, 2018.
Seychelles' flagbearer Dylan Silobo leads the delegation during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games at the Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast on April 4, 2018. - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 29.06.2023
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The June 29th holds immense significance for the people of Seychelles as they reflect on the struggles and triumphs that paved the way for their freedom. With a rich history and vibrant culture, the country's Independence Day is a momentous occasion celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride.
The island nation of Seychelles celebrates 47 years of independence on Thursday. Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles gained its independence from the British colonial empire on June 29, 1976.
The path to independence was marked by a peaceful transition, distinguishing Seychelles from many other African nations. This milestone was achieved through the persistent efforts of political leaders, activists and the indomitable spirit of the Seychellois people.
Seychelles celebrates its Independence Day with various events and activities throughout the country, including a flag-raising ceremony at the State House in Victoria, the capital, followed by a speech by the President and a military parade, as well as a cultural show, a carnival procession and a fireworks display.
In his message to the nation on the occasion, Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan wished all Seychellois citizens a happy National Day and said that the young island nation will continue along its path of development in pursuit of unity and prosperity.
"47 years in the life of a country earns us the classification of a young nation. We are still taking note of all that surrounds us, we are planning, aspiring and formulating the ideas that we hope will make us stand strong and truly breathe that pride as one people," Ramkalawan stated in his message.
President Ramkalawan has also announced his government's efforts to build up the nation's necessary infrastructure, including the construction of a new modern hospital at Mont Fleuri, a new airport and a new port.
The leader also encouraged all Seychellois citizens to celebrate Seychelles' achievements and urged individuals to find ways to contribute towards the betterment of the nation.

"We will make mistakes, but that's not what counts. What is important is that when we fall, we find the courage to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and renew that determination to move forward," Ramkalawan said. "This is the Seychellois Creole spirit flowing in the veins of every Seychellois and that we also want to share with everyone we meet."

A Guest of Honor

As for the official part of the country's National Day celebrations, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has arrived in the Seychelles capital, Victoria, on a state visit, where he "will be the Guest of Honour at this year’s National Day Parade."
"The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan and First Lady, Linda Ramkalawan received the President of the Republic of Rwanda, His Excellency Mr. Paul Kagame, and the First Lady of Rwanda, Mrs Jeanette Kagame at State House this morning," the Office of the Seychelles President said in a statement on Tuesday.
Last week, the presidential office said that during President Kagame's state visit, which is his second to the country, he "will hold bilateral discussions with President Ramkalawan at State House."
The State House added that Kagame and Ramkalawan are also expected to sign a number of MoUs and agreements between Seychelles and Rwanda.
The Rwandan guest will also address an extraordinary session of the Seychelles National Assembly.
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