China Funds 136-Home Social Housing Project in Seychelles, Set for 2026 Start

China is set to finance a 136-home social housing project in Seychelles, with construction beginning in March 2026. This initiative, part of a strategic partnership, aims to enhance socio-economic growth and aligns with Seychelles’ development priorities. The agreement was signed between governmental representatives from both nations following discussions at the FOCAC, stressing the collaboration in housing and infrastructure sectors.

In a significant development for Seychelles, China has announced funding for a new social housing initiative, marking a further strengthening of their strategic partnership. The agreement, formalized on December 13, between Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde, and Chinese Ambassador Lin Nan, encompasses the construction of 136 housing units, which will be situated in Anse Royale and Anse Boileau. Construction is anticipated to commence in March 2026, following designs aligned with Seychelles’ specific regulations, as coordinated by the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency in partnership with Chinese experts.

The dialogue for this project originated during Seychelles’ attendance at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, where President Ramkalawan announced the funding. Ambassador Lin emphasized China’s commitment to aiding Seychelles in its developmental objectives, describing the signing as a crucial initial step in accordance with China’s Foreign Aid policy. Of the 136 planned units, 72 will be located in Beoliere within Port Glaud, while 64 will be constructed in Cap Bonm Zan, Anse Royale. Minister Rangasamy detailed that the use of construction materials would undergo thorough analysis to guarantee adherence to local standards, with the total project expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete.

Minister Radegonde expressed his appreciation for China’s unwavering support and noted the advancement of their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. This ongoing collaboration follows decades of diplomatic relations, during which China has significantly contributed to various infrastructure and health projects in Seychelles, including the National Assembly building and medical assistance through dispatched physicians from Shandong Province.

The relationship between China and Seychelles has developed over more than 40 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. China has been a major contributor to infrastructure projects in Seychelles, facilitating the construction of key facilities like the National Assembly and various social housing estates. The latest agreement for the social housing project is part of a broader framework aimed at enhancing development initiatives within Seychelles, aligning with China’s Foreign Aid policy, and fostering a deeper partnership between the two nations. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation serves as a pivotal platform for planning such collaborative endeavors, highlighting the mutual interest in progressing socio-economic development goals.

In conclusion, the forthcoming construction of 136 social housing units funded by China marks a further consolidation of the strategic partnership between Seychelles and China. The project not only signifies China’s ongoing commitment to supporting Seychelles’ development but also reflects the effective collaboration initiated at the FOCAC. With both parties dedicated to meeting local standards and optimizing infrastructure, the housing initiative is anticipated to deliver significant benefits to the Seychellois community, thus strengthening bilateral ties.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com