VP Pillay represents Seychelles at APRM Forum, AU Assembly |14 February 2026

Vice-President Pillay addressing the forum

Vice-President Sebastien Pillay, representing President Patrick Herminie, addressed the 35th African Peer Review Forum held on the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

He highlighted the importance of strengthened continental collaboration, the sharing of best practices, and advancing Africa as a unified and competitive global partner.

He further stressed the need for robust policies and sound legislative frameworks to unlock greater socio-economic benefits for all African nations.

Speaking on the targeted Peer Review Report on São Tomé and Príncipe, the vice-president remarked:

“In Seychelles, we have worked to ensure that our tourism policies translate into tangible benefits for our citizens, including the promotion and protection of Seychellois-owned businesses. Seychelles stands ready to share its experience and best practices with São Tomé and Príncipe, and we look forward to providing support in the true spirit of African partnership and solidarity.”

The African Peer Review Summit serves as a platform for African leaders to exchange best practices, strengthen accountability frameworks, and advance collective political and economic progress across the continent. Seychelles remains firmly committed to the principles of the APRM (African Peer Review Mechanism), valuing it as a vital mechanism for promoting stability, democratic governance, and sustainable prosperity.

Vice-President Pillay also underscored Seychelles’ achievements in governance and inclusivity:

• 60% representation of women at Cabinet and senior government levels
• Election of the first female Speaker of the National Assembly
• Establishment of a consultative body to ensure youth participation in policymaking

He announced that Seychelles will undergo its peer review next year, reaffirming the country’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the APRM continental secretariat as national structures are formalised.

The APRM is currently headed by Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre of Seychelles as chief executive, with President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda serving as the new chair.

Vice-President Pillay was accompanied by Ambassador Barry Faure, Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, and Ambassador Conrad Mederic, permanent eepresentative of Seychelles to the African Union.

Press release from the Office of the President