Seychelles and Zambia will deepen cooperation in education, tourism and trade following senior officials’ talks on July 6, 2026.
Education ties and prospects for expansion
During a courtesy call at Maison Quéau de Quinssy, the Zambian High Commissioner‑designate, Alfred Musemuna, met Seychelles’ foreign minister, Barry Faure. The minister thanked Zambia for its role in the Seychellois public‑school system, where Zambian teachers currently assist in classroom instruction. He said the government wants to broaden that partnership, though no timetable was announced.
Both sides noted that existing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on education have not been fully activated. A review of those agreements could unlock resources for teacher training and student exchanges.
Tourism, air links and joint marketing
Tourism was highlighted as an area where cooperation has stalled. The two nations have signed several MoUs that remain inactive, including one covering tourism. Faure expressed a desire to revive the agreement, citing potential gains from shared expertise and coordinated promotional campaigns.
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Musemuna welcomed the idea, emphasizing that joint marketing initiatives and improved air connectivity could benefit both nations. He pointed out that direct flights would make travel easier between the Indian Ocean archipelago and southern Africa, though no route proposals were disclosed.
The conversation also covered broader trade opportunities. Faure suggested that Seychelles could tap into Zambia’s extensive agricultural lands and livestock sector, which produces quality meat. He argued that such imports could strengthen food security for the island nation, which relies heavily on imported staples.
Conversely, the Zambian side could benefit from Seychelles’ experience in marine tourism and its reputation as a high‑end destination. They said they would examine ways to facilitate business‑to‑business contacts, though specific sectors beyond agriculture were not detailed.
Energy, climate and regional cooperation
Environmental issues formed part of the agenda. Both countries are seeking alternatives to fossil fuels and discussed ongoing projects to develop more sustainable energy sources. Faure asked Zambia to support Seychelles’ push for the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI), noting that the landlocked nation also faces unique challenges.
While Seychelles enjoys a high GDP per capita, its small, open economy is vulnerable to external shocks, and recovery can be slow. The ministers agreed that sharing best practices on climate resilience could help both nations manage future risks.
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Regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the African Union were mentioned as platforms for deeper engagement. Upcoming Zambian presidential and parliamentary elections were noted, and both sides pledged to keep diplomatic channels open during the electoral period.
For ordinary citizens, the practical outcome could be more opportunities for teachers to work abroad, easier travel options for holidaymakers, and a steadier supply of Zambian meat on Seychelles’ menus.
If the proposed air link materializes, travel costs may drop and new markets could open for small businesses on both sides.
Consular matters and diaspora connections were raised, with each country expressing interest in facilitating support for its nationals living abroad. No further details were provided, but the officials said they would continue dialogue through regular diplomatic channels.
