China to Fund 136-Home Social Housing Project in Seychelles Starting 2026

China has committed to funding a 136-home social housing project in Seychelles, signifying a strengthened strategic partnership between the two nations. Agreements were signed on December 13, with construction set to start in March 2026. The initiative, stemming from discussions at FOCAC, aims to improve local housing standards while fostering bilateral ties.

China and Seychelles have solidified their “strategic partnership” with the recent signing of agreements to initiate a significant social housing project on the island of Mahé. The agreements were finalized on December 13 at the Seychelles Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the Chinese Ambassador to Seychelles, Lin Nan, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde, representing their respective governments. The project entails constructing 136 social housing units in the districts of Anse Royale and Anse Boileau, backed by a grant from China, with construction anticipated to commence in March 2026.

The initiative emerged from discussions during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing in September, where President Ramkalawan of Seychelles announced the funding for this housing initiative. According to Ambassador Lin Nan, the signing represented a critical preliminary step for the project’s implementation, aligning with China’s Foreign Aid policy, emphasizing their dedication to supporting Seychelles’ developmental ambitions.

Minister for Lands and Housing, Billy Rangasamy, stated that collaboration with Chinese experts will ensure the homes conform to local standards. He indicated that both teams are currently evaluating the construction materials to confirm adherence to Seychelles’ specifications. The project is expected to last between 12 and 18 months. Of the 136 housing units designed, 72 will be situated in Beoliere, while 64 will be placed in Cap Bonm Zan, with attention given to minimizing infrastructure costs.

Ambassador Radegonde expressed gratitude toward China for their ongoing support, highlighting that the bilateral relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership. Since establishing diplomatic ties over four decades ago, Seychelles has engaged in numerous collaborative efforts with China, leading to various infrastructure projects and substantial contributions in the health sector.

The collaboration between China and Seychelles builds on a longstanding diplomatic relationship established over forty years ago. The ongoing partnerships have led to numerous infrastructure developments in Seychelles, including notable projects like the National Assembly building and the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation House. The commitment to social housing development aligns with Seychelles’ efforts to improve living standards and address housing shortages, which is critical for the archipelagic nation. Furthermore, China’s involvement extends beyond infrastructure, having significantly contributed to Seychelles’ healthcare sector since 1985 by sending medical professionals to serve the local population.

In summary, the partnership between China and Seychelles represents a significant advancement in diplomatic relations, demonstrated through the forthcoming construction of 136 social housing units. This project, commencing in 2026, underscores China’s ongoing commitment to supporting Seychelles’ development goals, thereby enhancing living conditions within the country. The participation in FOCAC has proven instrumental in facilitating this collaboration, reinforcing the strategic dimensions of their relationship and setting the stage for future initiatives.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com