The Government of Seychelles and the Government of Cuba have renewed their long-standing cooperation agreement in the public health sector, reinforcing diplomatic ties that span more than five decades.
The agreement was signed on Friday, 22 November, during a brief ceremony at the Red Roof building at Seychelles Hospital. Dr. Marvin Fanny, Minister for Health, signed on behalf of Seychelles, while outgoing Cuban Ambassador Martha Hernandez Caneiro represented the Cuban government.
The renewed health cooperation agreement will continue to facilitate the recruitment of Cuban medical professionals to serve in Seychelles’ public healthcare system. It will also maintain opportunities for Seychellois health workers to receive training in specialised medical universities in Cuba.
Dr. Fanny described the agreement as central to strengthening the country’s health services.
“The agreement is a commitment to the wellbeing of our people and the advancement of our health workforce and the strengthening of our national health system,” he said.
He noted that 45 Cuban medical practitioners are currently working in Seychelles, and the renewal will enable the country to recruit additional specialists, including a nephrologist and a neurologist.
Ambassador Hernandez expressed confidence in the future of the partnership.
“I think that in the future it can be expanded, and I think that is one of the expectations of the health authority,” she said.
According to the Ministry of Health, the renewal comes as Seychelles faces rising healthcare demands and seeks to further strengthen specialist services and public health programmes. The ministry maintains that the long-standing cooperation remains vital to building a resilient national health system.