Assomption Environment Task Force Conducts Site Visit to Assomption Island to Assess Environmental Priorities
Members of the Assomption Environment Task Force conducted an official visit to Assomption Island on Monday, 16 March 2026, to assess environmental conditions, review ongoing conservation initiatives, and engage with relevant stakeholders, in particular SIF and IDC.
The aim of the visit was to ensure that the proponents were complying with the Prohibition Notice instructions and adhering to the conditions set for consideration of further continuation of the project. As part of the visit, the delegation deployed drones to verify whether any construction had taken place during the prohibition period. They also inspected areas where construction had previously started and been halted, including staff accommodation and back-of-house facilities. In addition, the delegation visited existing infrastructure on the island, such as the Sewage Treatment Plant. The visit also aimed at establishing the priority biosecurity measures on the island.
Following the visit, Task Force members noted the overall environmental status of the island’s ecosystems and identified areas requiring further attention and enhanced monitoring.
“The Task Force is now in a better position to make informed decisions on the environmental aspects of the project,” said Marie-May Jeremie, Minister for Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources. It was observed that the developers are complying with the Prohibition Notice and are taking steps, such as supporting SIF to undertake biodiversity assessments and to strengthen biosecurity measures, to address immediate environmental concerns.
This was the first visit to Assomption Island by the Environment Task Force since its inception, although it has been meeting regularly. Following the visit, the Task Force, will now prepare a report to be submitted to the President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie.
The visit underscores the Government’s continued commitment to safeguarding Seychelles’ unique ecosystems while ensuring that environmental considerations remain central to decision-making regarding the management of Assomption Island.
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