In an impassioned vote of thanks during the evaluation session marking the end of the project in Seychelles on Monday, 29 May, 2023, Honourable John Hoareau, a member of the Committee on Communicable Diseases, HIV /AIDS and SRHR in the National Assembly of Seychelles, expressed immense thankfulness to various stakeholders for their contributions to the successful completion of the second phase of the project.

Seychelles one of is one of 11 countries implementing the project. The others are Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Lesotho, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Madagascar and Namibia. He said the project has played a crucial role in advancing democratic governance and inclusive policies.

“The conclusion of this programme comes at a time when we as a nation are celebrating 30 years of a multi-party democracy, 30 years of our Constitution, 30 years of the existence of the National Assembly and at a time when we are simultaneously taking stock of how effective we have been as the legislative arm of the government in delivering on democratic governance,” he said in remarks made on his behalf by Honourable Kelly Samynadin, a member of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus in the National Assembly of Seychelles. 

Quoting Dietrich BonHoeffer, emphasizing the importance of gratitude in enriching life, Hoareau conveyed deep appreciation to SADC PF and SIDA for their continuous support and funding.

Hoareau highlighted the project's objective of removing barriers and stigmas associated with HIV and AIDS, protecting the rights of minority groups, and ensuring their rightful place in an inclusive government. He noted that such initiatives are vital for the modern democracy the nation is striving to build.

Hoareau further extended gratitude to the local stakeholders, including the Prison Department, National AIDS Council, Ministry of Health, and NGOs such as HASO. These partners were acknowledged for their unwavering support and collaboration, enabling the committee to advocate for the rights and well-being of their clients effectively.

Hoareau said the motions presented and debated in the National Assembly under the project garnered public and executive support, and it was hoped that the cabinet would deliberate on the recommendations and translate them into policies aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure health and well-being for all.

Acknowledging the essential role played by the National Assembly's colleagues, Hoareau expressed gratitude to the secretariat, particularly Ms. Genevieve Daniel, for her invaluable coordination and unwavering commitment. The success of the governance project owed much to her dedicated efforts, he said.

As the project concludes, Hoareau assured the audience that the working rapport developed with stakeholders would continue. The National Assembly committee remains committed to advocating for concerns and collaborating with SADC PF as their primary partner, fostering the sharing of experiences and ongoing capacity building.

Hoareau expressed gratitude to all participants in the evaluation session and emphasized the continued dedication of the committee to uphold democratic principles, ensuring that the voices of all individuals are heard.

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