Commemoration of Abolition of Slavery in Seychelles

A Shared Journey: Discover the Commemoration of the Abolition of Slavery in Seychelles

This month, Seychelles invites residents, families, students and visitors to take part in a meaningful and inclusive series of events and exhibitions commemorating the Abolition of Slavery. This first national edition of the programme brings history into public spaces across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, creating opportunities to learn, reflect and connect with the roots of Seychellois identity

Slavery forms a deeply important part of Seychelles’ history and has shaped the country’s culture, language and people. This commemoration is not only about remembering the past, but about opening conversations and encouraging understanding across generations and communities. Through exhibitions, talks, performances and travelling displays, the programme welcomes everyone to engage at their own pace — whether for an hour, an afternoon, or over several weeks.

Visitors to Seychelles will also find this programme a meaningful way to understand the islands beyond beaches and resorts. Museums, galleries and community spaces become places of shared stories, offering insight into how history continues to influence modern Seychelles. For families and young people, the exhibitions and talks are designed to be accessible and educational, while art and performance create emotional connections that transcend language.

One of the programme’s strengths is its reach. Events take place not only in Victoria, but also travel across districts on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, ensuring that participation is open and inclusive. Whether you attend a public exhibition, tune in to a broadcast discussion, or visit a travelling display in your district, the programme offers multiple ways to take part.

By combining history, culture, education and community engagement, the Commemoration of the Abolition of Slavery Day encourages reflection while looking forward, reminding us that understanding our shared past helps build a more informed, connected and inclusive future.

Programme of Activities : Friday 30 January – 28 February 2026

• School Exhibition on the Abolition of Slavery (Open to the public)  ⏰ Weekdays: 9AM–4PM|Sat: 9AM–12PM📍 National History Museum

Sunday 1 February 2026

Official Commemorative Ceremony (By invitation) ⏰ 10:15am – 11:45am📍 National Library Building Grounds

Rebroadcast: “Nesans en Pep”– Mahé Chamber Choir 📺 SBC Television (SBC 1) | ⏰ 4:30pm

Opening of Art & Photography Exhibition.  “Echoes Across the Ocean: Memory, Enslavement and Identity” (By invitation)
⏰ 5:00pm – 7:00pm 📍 National Gallery

Round Table Discussion – Echoes Across the Ocean ⏰ 7:00pm 📺 SBC Television 2

Spektak Noumenm (Live Performance) ⏰ 7:30pm – 9:00pm📍 ICCS Auditorium

3 February – 3 March 2026

Art & Photography Exhibition – Commemorating the Abolition of Slavery ⏰ Weekdays: 9AM-4:30PM|Sat: 9AM-12PM📍 National Gallery / National Library

“Echoes Across the Ocean: Memory, Enslavement and Identity” ⏰ 8:30AM-4:30PM📍 National Gallery

9 February – May 2026

Travelling District Exhibition (One week per region) ⏰ 9AM–6PM📍 Districts across Mahé, Praslin & La Digue

9 & 10 February 2026

Culture Talks: “Echoes of Freedom – Slavery’s Legacy in Seychellois Identity”
🎤 Dr Odile de Commarmond ⏰ School session & public session📍 National Museum of History (Conference Room)