SPGA and University of Seychelles’ IBC Unite for Climate Resilience and Ecosystem Rehabilitation

The Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA) and the University of Seychelles’ Island Biodiversity & Conservation (IBC) Centre have formalized a landmark collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to rehabilitate the iconic Sainte Anne Marine National Park (SAMNP). Supported by a $280,000 grant from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), this initiative aims to bolster climate resilience and restore critical habitats in one of the Indian Ocean’s oldest marine protected areas. 

Established in 1973, SAMNP spans 14.43 km² and encompasses six islands near Mahé. The park, a cornerstone of Seychelles’ natural heritage, faces mounting threats from climate change, invasive species, and habitat degradation. This will focus on addressing these challenges through science-driven conservation and community engagement. 

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Key Objectives of the Partnership include Ecosystem Restoration, by eradicating invasive species, replanting native vegetation, and rehabilitating dunes to protect endangered wildlife, Hawksbill Turtle Conservation through enhanced predator control, habitat restoration, and nest relocation during breeding seasons.  Additionally, technology-driven monitoring is also a key component of the Agreement, by Utilizing SPGA’s EarthRanger platform to log ecological data, track wildlife, and combat illegal activities in real time. 

This MoU builds on over 10 years of joint efforts between IBC-UniSey and SPGA (formerly SNPA), including a pioneering sea turtle monitoring program (2013–2018) and a 2021 satellite-tracking study of Hawksbill Turtles.

Mr. Allen Cedras, CEO of SAMNP, emphasized: “SPGA’s mandate is to safeguard our protected areas for future generations. Collaborating with IBC ensures we leverage cutting-edge science to meet this goal while engaging stakeholders in sustainable practices.” 

Dr. Gérard Rocamora, Founding Chair of IBC, added that: “This partnership merges academic rigor with on-the-ground action. By rehabilitating SAMNP’s ecosystems, we’re not only protecting biodiversity but also fortifying Seychelles’ resilience to climate change.” 

Looking ahead, the initiative underscores Seychelles’ commitment to the Global Biodiversity Framework and positions SAMNP as a model for island conservation. By integrating research, technology, and community action, this partnership aims to ensure SAMNP remains a thriving ecological and cultural asset. 

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