A group of experts from key environmental and infrastructure government agencies successfully completed a short course on “Coastal Risk Management and Adaptation in Seychelles,” hosted by the University of Seychelles and the World Bank. This course, held between September 23 and October 15, 2021, was a part of a technical assistance (TA) project, “Strengthening Coastal Resilience in Seychelles,” provided through the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery and Japan-World Bank Program for Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Management in Developing Countries. The closing ceremony of the course on October 15 was attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Seychelles, Mr. Makoto Tominaga.
The course was designed to reflect the findings of the World Bank’s assessment of the Seychelles’ Coastal Management Plan launched in 2019. Through the assessment, the World Bank team identified that by building the Government’s knowledge and technical capacity around coastal management while also promoting more cross-sectoral coordination, would further improve implementation efforts around the Plan. The well-conceived course enhanced cross-cutting knowledge and information sharing among the 30 participants.
“I was able to expand on my existing knowledge of physical environments and sustainable management practices as well as learn new concepts from the engineering and construction industries. The course enabled me to tap into a new network of colleagues and friends sharing ideas and information from our respective sectors, to foster growth and inclusiveness within our respective sectors.” – Course Participant
The course covered topics including geospatial information systems applied to coastal areas, climate smart flood risk management techniques, nature-based solutions, and linkages between coastal management and the Blue Economy*. Virtual and in-person theoretical lectures, field excursions and practical exercises allowed participants to holistically explore the new concepts presented during the course. In addition, further cross-sectoral collaboration and networking between stakeholders including various government agencies, NGOs and the local communities is encouraged as these stakeholders take the next steps in implementing the sustainable practices outlined in the Plan.
As a small island developing state (SIDS), Seychelles is highly vulnerable to hazards such as floods, coastal erosion, and tropical cyclones. Recognizing the country’s climate vulnerability, the Government of Seychelles has been at the forefront of advocating for climate action and embracing the Blue Economy to boost sustainable development. The World Bank will continue to work with the Government of Seychelles to support their efforts to strengthen the nation’s coastal resilience.
＊Blue Economy — Blue Economy is an emerging concept that seeks to promote the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improvement of livelihoods, and jobs, while at the same time preserving the health of marine and coastal ecosystems.