U.S. embassy hosts talks on digital government, democratic values at NAS |26 July 2025

Speaker Mancienne opening the session

The U.S. embassy in Seychelles on Tuesday hosted a talk on digital governance and democratic values at the National Assembly. The session was delivered by former deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communication and Global Outreach at the White House, Mark Pfeifle, accompanied by charge d’affaires Adham Loutfi, and staff of the U.S. embassy. The event was attended by both members and service staff of the assembly.

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Roger Mancienne, opened the session by warmly welcoming Mr Pfeifle, and his delegation. He highlighted the significance of the session, encouraging members to take full advantage of the opportunity to engage, ask questions, and bring the insights gained back to their districts to strengthen their work and service to constituents.

Mr Pfeifle’s presentation covered a broad range of topics, including the role of technology in enhancing trust and transparency in governance, the strategic shifts in communication following the 9/11 attacks and during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the crucial role of public communication in restoring trust in democratic institutions.

Interactive discussions were held throughout the session, allowing members to ask questions and explore how the themes discussed could be contextualised and applied within the Seychelles setting.

Contributed