Seychelles has reached a milestone in gender representation, with women now holding a record number of senior positions across both the executive and legislative branches of government.
For the first time in the nation’s history, the Speaker of the National Assembly is a woman. Mrs Azarel Ernesta was elected to lead the institution, marking a significant moment for the country’s parliament. Both the Clerk and Deputy Clerk of the Assembly are also women, while Mrs Sylvianne Lemiel has been appointed as Leader of Government Business, the first woman to hold the post in many years.
In the executive branch, women now make up 57% of the cabinet, with eight out of 14 ministers being female. The youngest member, 32-year-old Kalsey Belle, serves as Minister for Youth and Sports.
Mrs Margaret Moumou, Chief Secretary of the Cabinet of Ministers, described the development as “a very empowering moment in the history of Seychelles and the history of women’s development.”
She added that President Herminie believes appointing capable women to leadership positions is an important step in aligning Seychelles with international standards and ensuring women play a central role in the country’s progress.