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Seychelles' Connectivity Crossroads

Writer's picture: Lucie HarterLucie Harter

In Seychelles' pursuit for connectivity, a critical crossroads emerges, prompting reflection on the path ahead and the interests steering the ship. Balancing support for local businesses, ensuring citizen fairness, and addressing challenges in providing affordable high-speed internet, we face a pivotal decision point.


The government's commitment to safeguarding the local internet service provider raises questions about navigating the balance between citizen interests and those of private companies. This dance underscores the government's role in providing essential services to its citizens, raising critical considerations.


Consider the promise of Starlink against Seychelles' challenges—115 islands grappling with inconsistent and costly internet services. As a small business owner, my ongoing struggles with expensive and unreliable internet service underscore the undeniable potential of Starlink to transform Seychelles' connectivity landscape. The decision not to embrace Starlink prompts reflection on its broader impact on economic growth, education, and individual opportunities, including discussions on the environmental impact of these satellites.


The struggles I face with unreliable internet service have significantly impacted my online business, leading to questions about how essential services like banks, hotels, and casinos manage similar challenges. The promise of reliable, high-speed internet through Starlink could open avenues for economic growth, education, and healthcare, potentially propelling Seychelles into a new era of progress. However, decisions against adopting such technologies sometimes feel like we are prioritising profit over progress.


Allegations surrounding an unauthorised communications tower owned by developers at Intendance add complexity as Seychelles navigates regulatory and financial connectivity hurdles. This clandestine structure stands in stark contradiction to the challenges faced by Seychellois citizens in accessing high-speed internet, highlighting a disconcerting disparity in the distribution of connectivity resources. Political? I think yes.


While local officials claim ignorance regarding the illegal tower, persistent concerns about transparency and accountability arise. The seemingly immune tower underscores broader challenges within the regulatory framework and governance structures. The alleged illegal tower, juxtaposed with the struggles of Seychellois citizens, serves as a poignant reminder of potential pitfalls in the pursuit of equality.


This contradiction becomes more striking when considering permits granted to yachts and select private companies for work-related connectivity, raising questions about equity and fairness in resource distribution. This invites a critical examination of the government's role in ensuring the benefits of technological advancements are shared by all citizens. Granting permits to some for work-related connectivity while impeding similar access for others adds an additional layer to this discourse, inviting reflection on principles of fairness and inclusivity in the digital age. All this underscores the need for transparent governance and proactive measures to eliminate disparities.


The journey towards achieving Seychelles' vision is fraught with challenges, primarily within the regulatory framework. In an age where internet connectivity is increasingly viewed as a basic right, the hesitancy to make it widely accessible raises concerns about the potential stifling of Seychelles' growth. The impact extends beyond personal use, encompassing critical sectors like education and healthcare.


In conclusion, Seychelles stands at the cusp of a transformative opportunity with the potential advent of Starlink. The challenges, ranging from regulatory hurdles to financial barriers, require careful consideration. As the global community recognises connectivity as a basic right, Seychelles faces a crucial decision in bridging the digital divide and propelling its citizens into a future defined by equitable access.


And to the people of Seychelles - how do you feel about this illegal tower? What’s your experience with the local internet service providers? What do you think about Starlink?


Lucie Harter


*Link to the SBC documentary "Gran Reportaz Lema Takamaka - En frekans brouye" here : https://youtu.be/DOob_9e0-5g?si=PVQY295f_sKqic1X

1 comment

1 comentario


mishmashmixer
mishmashmixer
22 nov 2024

As a IT business owner thats trying to support remote Islands in Seychelles and after witnessing the transformative reality of Starlink in rural Ireland, it is absolutely insane that the Seychelles Govt is holding back deployment of Starlink ....they obviously have not seen it in action , what the hell are they thinking?!!???

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