On April 17, 2025, Air Seychelles officially adopted the Caiman Estate wetland in Anse Boileau, through the signing of an MOU with Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change, and Environment (MACCE), showcasing its strong dedication to environmental sustainability.
The national airline solidified this partnership at a special event held at the wetland site. The day also saw Air Seychelles become the seventh private organization to sign the “Wetlands Pledge” alongside (MACCE. This pledge is part of Nature Seychelles’ “Wetlands of Hope” project, which is supported by the European Union.
Minister Flavien Jourbert and Sandy Benoiton (Air Seychelles CEO) signing the MoU and Pledge
This dual commitment highlights the airline’s intention to support the long-term management of the wetland, with staff actively engaging in hands-on conservation efforts.
During the ceremony, the Minister of Environment underscored the importance of this collaboration, stating, “It is a great pleasure and honor to witness such an effort from Air Seychelles, our national airline. This is a true commitment to protect and care for our nature, our natural resources, and our future.” He also highlighted the essential role of wetlands in absorbing harmful gases, supporting biodiversity, and safeguarding coastal areas.
The “Wetlands of Hope” project aims to encourage co-management of these vital natural spaces. Dr. Nirmal Shah, CEO of Nature Seychelles, praised Air Seychelles for joining this initiative, explaining, “Under the EU-funded project, which is called ‘Wetlands of Hope,’ we have been assisting the Ministry in promoting a system of co-management for wetlands. Hotels, Seychelles’ largest bank, and now our own endemic airline have taken on the challenge to become champions of Wetlands of Hope.”
Mangroves planting
He shared the importance of the pledge, saying, “By signing the Pledge, Air Seychelles is committing to implementing specific measures, including the MOU with the Ministry, a conservation plan, and a regular monitoring program that will help label the Caiman Wetland as a ‘Wetland of Hope.’ This label signifies effective co-management practices, and we hope that many others will adopt these methods.”
For Air Seychelles, this partnership represents a wider commitment to environmental stewardship that goes beyond their primary business. The CEO of Air Seychelles, Sandy Benoiton, expressed his pride in this new initiative, stating, “We embark on a journey that not only signifies our commitment to sustainability but also illustrates our dedication to the beautiful islands we proudly serve. As an airline, our mandate goes beyond flying passengers to their dream destinations; it includes being responsible stewards of the environment we operate in.” He also pointed out an innovative aspect of their involvement, stating, “Through this initiative, we are excited to offer our passengers a unique opportunity to engage in carbon offsetting while contributing to the preservation of this precious wetland.”
Group photo
After the signing ceremony, attendees took part in a planting activity and an educational tour of the wetland. Among those present were the French Ambassador to Seychelles, Mme. Olivia Berkeley-Christmann, the Anse Boileau Member of the National Assembly, Mr. Phillip Arissol, students from the School for The Exceptional Child, Seychelles, as well as members of the Port Glaud and Anse Boileau LEAP Junior Club, and local community members.