PRESS RELEASE – Seychelles to Commemorate the Abolition of Slavery for the First Time on 1st  February 2026

Seychelles will, for the first time, officially commemorate the Abolition of Slavery on 1 February 2026, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s history.

Speaking at a press conference held at Botanical House this morning, the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mrs Amanda Bernstein, highlighted the significance of this commemoration as a moment of remembrance, acknowledgement, and national reflection on a past that has profoundly shaped Seychellois identity, culture, and heritage.

“The slave trade represents a painful chapter in our history, but it is also a foundational one that has deeply influenced our Creole culture, traditions, and identity,” the Minister said.

The Minister explained that the date of 1 February was chosen because slavery was abolished across British colonies in 1835, and in Mauritius the abolition took effect on 1 February 1835. At the time, Seychelles was governed under the same colonial administration, making the date historically relevant to the country. Similar to Mauritius, Seychelles will commemorate this day on 1 February, which will also be observed as a public holiday.

Principal Secretaries from the Ministry were also present. Mrs Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary for Tourism, explained the importance of the commemoration in promoting cultural tourism, complementing the traditional “Sun, Sea and Sand” tourism product and generating economic benefits for the country. The Principal Secretary for Culture Mrs. Cecille Kalebi provided details on the programme of activities, including a commemorative ceremony, artistic performances, educational initiatives, and the launch of a competition for a national monument.

Historian Dr Odile De Comarmond and the Director General for Community Affairs in the Ministry of Local Government and Inner Islands were also present to address questions on historical aspects and the exhibition that will be displayed in districts on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue respectively.

The initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to preserving shared memory, strengthening national cohesion, and positioning Seychelles within the global movement to recognise the legacy of slavery and promote justice, remembrance, and reconciliation.

The Ministry invites all Seychellois to participate in this historic commemoration to reflect on the past, learn from history, and celebrate the cultural richness that has emerged from Seychelles’ diverse heritage.

You can download the programme of activities using the following link

Ministry of Tourism and Culture
Botanical House, Mont Fleuri, Mahe, Seychelles

For further queries contact:
Barbara Eugénie
Director
PR, Marketing & Communications
Department of Culture, Arts and National Heritage
2nd Floor Seychelles National Library bldg
Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles 
Tel: (+248) 4321333 
Email: [email protected]