Vilaz Zanblon Estate housing development |16 August 2025
Handover of 24 units and foundation stone laying for new project
Twenty-four families at Vilaz Zanblon Estate, Cascade received keys to their new house on Thursday, marking the completion of Phase 2 of the village development, comprising eight three-bedroom units and 16 two-bedroom units.
The ceremony early afternoon was attended by President Wavel Ramkalawan; First Lady Linda Ramkalawan; Vice-President Ahmed Afif; Lands and Housing Minister, Billy Rangasamy; Local Goverment and Community Affairs Minister, Rose-Marie Hoareau; and elected member of the National Assembly for Cascade, Honourable Philip Monthy and the new tenants.
The 24 units were constructed by Reliance Engineering at a cost of R24.6 million. It followed the opening of Phase 1 of the Vilaz Zanblon Estate in October 2022. It now brings the total number of housing units at the estate to 48.
Addressing the gathering, President Ramkalawan reaffirmed his government’s unwavering dedication to providing decent, safe, and affordable housing for all Seychellois.
“Today’s handover is not just the provision of homes, but the restoration of community life, especially for Cascade residents who were displaced following the December 7, 2023 incident and had been temporarily relocated to Perseverance,” said the head of state, adding that many have longed to return to their district, while others have patiently waited for many years.
“We will continue working tirelessly to ensure that more of our citizens can experience the joy of owning a home, within a safe and conducive environment that fosters unity, belonging, and pride,” the President said.
For his part, Minister Rangasamy expressed the ministry’s continued dedication to meeting the housing needs of Seychellois families, while ensuring that developments are built to quality standards. This was echoed by Mr Monthy who said the inauguration of these new apartments serves as a symbol of comfort for the residents, reflecting the government's genuine commitment to housing developments.
Speaking to the media, the new tenants expressed joy at receiving their keys. Among them was Anabelle Barbe, who is now the owner of a three-bedroom apartment. “I have waited almost 17 years for my own home, and now my dream has finally become a reality,” she shared with deep emotion. The mother of three shared how she had been moving from one place to another, before finally securing her own home.
Marlene Vidot was temporarily relocated to Perseverance following the December 7 explosion at CCCL nearly two years ago, which damaged the SSW housing apartments, where she was residing. She has also received keys to her new three-bedroom unit. “I was compelled to leave our home district following the explosion and now I am thrilled to be moving back into my new residence,” she shared
Following the handover ceremony, attendees also observed the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for an additional 32 mid-range condominium units. This new development funded by the government of Seychelles is to be undertaken by Onivo Construction Ltd at a contract value of R39.9 million.
The initial six foundation stones at the historical asphalt plant in Cascade were laid by President Ramkalawan, Minister Rangasamy, Hon. Monthy, principal secretary for Lands and Housing, Jude Florentine and Cascade district administrator, Begita Melanie. The ceremony also consisted of the unveiling of the plaque for the project.
The project will comprise 2 three-bedroom housing units, recreational/playground space, sewage connection to PUC Great Victoria Sewerage Treatment work plus a mini-commercial retail outlet to ensure a community feel. The condos are targeting professional and semi-professional middle income earners.
The accompanying photos show some highlights of the handover ceremony and the foundation stone laying.
Kassey Govinden/Press release from the Office of the President
Photos: Kurtrine Albert