Seychelles’ Top News Highlights from November 2025

November 2025 was a month of celebration, achievement, and cultural flair for Seychelles, with groundbreaking public health recognition, glamorous events, and continued tourism momentum under the new administration following the October political transition.

Historic WHO Recognition: Elimination of Measles and Rubella

On November 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Seychelles, alongside Cabo Verde and Mauritius, had officially eliminated measles and rubella—marking the first sub-Saharan African countries to achieve this milestone. Verified by the African Regional Verification Commission, the accomplishment stemmed from sustained high vaccination coverage (over 95% for decades), robust surveillance, and effective outbreak responses. Seychelles contained its last measles outbreak in 2020 and reported no rubella cases since 2016. This global health victory underscored the nation’s commitment to public wellness amid its small island vulnerabilities.

Seychelles Fashion Week Lights Up Eden Island

The 8th edition of Seychelles Fashion Week dazzled audiences on November 28-29 at Eden Island, blending international designers with local talent on a stunning runway. The event showcased emerging African fashion, cultural influences, and island-inspired glamour, attracting visitors and boosting the creative sector. It highlighted Seychelles’ growing role as a hub for high-end events in the Indian Ocean.

Record-Breaking Tourism Surge

By mid-November, Seychelles had already surpassed its full 2024 visitor arrivals, welcoming over 354,000 tourists—a 12% increase. Key markets like Germany, France, South Africa, and Russia drove the growth, with partnerships and forward bookings signaling a strong year-end. This momentum reinforced the archipelago’s appeal as a luxury destination, supporting economic diversification efforts.

Joining the Colombo Security Conclave

On November 21, Seychelles became the sixth member of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), enhancing regional maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean. The move aligned with Seychelles’ strategic focus on ocean governance and partnerships, building on its blue economy initiatives.

Other Notable Developments

• Consumer prices remained stable, with inflation flat year-on-year.
• Preparations continued for upcoming events, including the return of the Seychelles Ocean Festival at month’s end, promoting marine conservation through photography, dives, and clean-ups.
• Post-election governance saw new cabinet appointments and emphasis on private sector collaboration for sustainable development.

November capped a transformative year for Seychelles with health triumphs and cultural vibrancy, positioning the islands for continued progress in tourism and global partnerships as 2025 drew to a close.