Message from President Patrick Herminie on World Health Day and Health Workers’ Day 2026 |08 April 2026
President Herminie
‘Health workers carry the weight of the four great missions of health care’
“On the 7th of April, the world commemorates World Health Day, and we in Seychelles commemorate Health Workers' Day alongside it. My government and I, salute the invaluable contribution of all the men and women, past, present, and future, who have worked and who will continue to work to make and to keep our health system as one of the best in Africa and the world.
“This year's theme, ‘Together for Health. Stand with Science’, speaks directly to our collective strength. It reminds us that health belongs to all, not only to the few. It calls on us to trust evidence, to trust expertise, and to trust the principles that protect life.
“Across our hospitals, clinics, and communities, our health workers stand at the frontline of that ideal. You carry the weight of the four great missions of health care: prevention – stopping illness before it starts; protection – shielding our people from harm; promotion – strengthening healthy living across our islands; and restoration – returning both body and dignity when sickness comes.
“We know the weight health workers carry. We have witnessed your silent sacrifices, the exhaustion behind your reassuring smiles and so much more. That is why we are working hard to improve your working conditions, creating safer environments, expanding training, and improving staffing ratios. And patients are feeling the difference. A supported health worker delivers better care, gives greater attention, and shows deeper compassion. When we invest in those who heal, we invest directly in the health of every Seychellois.
“We are now planning a new hospital: a modern, world-class facility worthy of our people and those who serve them. For patients, this will mean shorter waits, more advanced treatments, more dignified surroundings, and care closer to home. For our health workers, this means a workplace that matches your dedication.
“My government is investing in the great ideals of health. Every Seychellois deserves healing with dignity. Science must guide our hands and compassion must never break under stress.
“On World Health Day and Health Workers' Day, we reaffirm health as the foundation of nation-building and we honour those who make that foundation strong and stronger every day.”