China to Fund 136-Home Social Housing Project in Seychelles, Construction Begins in 2026

China has agreed to fund a 136-home social housing project in Seychelles, with construction starting in March 2026. The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony on December 13, 2024, further solidifying the strategic relationship between the two nations, primarily established through collaboration frameworks like FOCAC. The Seychelles Infrastructure Agency will work alongside Chinese experts to ensure compliance with local standards, representing a significant step in addressing housing shortages in Seychelles.

On December 13, 2024, China and Seychelles solidified their strategic partnership through a crucial agreement aimed at initiating a significant social housing project on the island of Mahe. The agreement was formalized at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seychelles by Sylvestre Radegonde, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, alongside Lin Nan, the Chinese Ambassador to Seychelles. This project will create 136 social housing units financed by a Chinese grant, with construction set to begin in March 2026.

The discussions leading to this partnership took place during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in September, where Seychelles’ President Ramkalawan discussed the funding proposal. Established in 2000, FOCAC facilitates collaboration between China and 53 African nations, showcasing China’s commitment to aiding Seychelles’ development priorities, as highlighted by Ambassador Lin Nan during the signing event.

Minister Billy Rangasamy mentioned that the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency would be collaborating with Chinese experts throughout the process to align with local standards. The project plans to utilize materials evaluated by both teams to ensure compliance with Seychelles’ construction quality. Notably, 72 of the housing units will be located in Beoliere, while 64 will be situated in Cap Bonm Zan, featuring two and three-bedroom configurations.

Radegonde expressed gratitude towards China for its ongoing support, noting the enhancement of bilateral relations, which have reached a new level of strategic partnership. Seychelles has had diplomatic relations with China for over forty years, benefitting from various infrastructure projects and significant medical assistance through dispatched Chinese doctors.

The social housing project in Seychelles represents a significant milestone in the burgeoning relationship between Seychelles and China, amplifying Beijing’s influence in the Indian Ocean region. The project aims to address housing shortages in the country while also fostering cooperation in infrastructure development, a key focus of Sino-African partnerships cultivated through mechanisms like FOCAC. Additionally, China’s active role in Seychelles’ health sector showcases the comprehensive nature of their bilateral relations, which extend beyond mere economic transactions to encompass cultural and social support as well. As Seychelles continues to solidify its ties with China, the strategic nature of this partnership represents a broader trend in which small island nations engage with larger powers for developmental assistance.

In conclusion, the agreement between Seychelles and China marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the bilateral relationship between the two nations through a significant social housing initiative. Scheduled to begin in March 2026, the project is expected to provide much-needed housing while ensuring adherence to local building standards through collaboration with Chinese expertise. As the countries deepen their partnership, this project not only aims to alleviate housing issues but also reflects the ongoing commitment of both nations towards mutual development and infrastructural progress.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com