On 18 October 2023, the GEF-7 ‘Prioritizing Biodiversity Conservation and Nature-based Solutions as Pillars of Seychelles’ Blue Economy project’ was launched in the presence of Mr. Flavien Joubert, Minister of Agriculture, Climate Change, and Environment (MACCE) and multi-sector stakeholders including ministerial bodies, law enforcement agencies, non-governmental organizations, private sector representatives, and local experts. The project aims at conserving globally significant biodiversity through the effective management of Seychelles’ Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and promoting nature-based solutions as pillars of the Blue Economy. 

Seychelles is implementing an innovative Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) process to conserve this biodiversity and associated marine and coastal ecosystem services exploring ways to expand the country’s Blue Economy and provide sustainable economic benefits for its population. However, the institutional and financing mechanisms, and monitoring and enforcement capabilities are largely limited to effectively manage the expanded MPA system and sustain its Blue Economy objectives.

The Blue Economy Project will support the strengthening institutional capacities  necessary for the implementation of the Marine Spatial Planning and focus on the expansion of two existing marine protected areas in the Inner Islands. By applying nature-based solutions, the project aims to reduce the negative impacts of tourism on coastal and marine ecosystems by embedding sustainable tourism approaches to enhance conservation efforts. Aligning with Seychelles' ambitious ocean action plan, aimed at preserving and managing coastal ecosystems including 100% protection of it seagrass beds, the project complements the vital adaptation component of the nation's Nationally Determined Contributions, underscoring Seychelles' dedication to global climate action efforts.

In his opening remarks, Minister Joubert highlighted that the innovative nature of the project, which is the first GEF-financed Blue Economy project to be implemented in the Indian Ocean, can also be useful to other SIDS in the region: “The project will put in place a comprehensive approach to the management of coastal and marine ecosystems in the Seychelles in alignment with the national Marine Spatial Plan that will link sectors and partners responsible for coastal and marine ecosystems, while increasing local communities’ involvement in nature-based livelihoods.”

The GEF-funded USD 4.95mn project brings together a wide range of stakeholders to strengthen the capacity to manage the large ocean resources and build a comprehensive understanding of the potential of the Blue Economy over the next 6 years. The project is set to conclude in September 2029.