Seychelles FetAfrik contributes to give a soul to business

“Business does not have a soul unless it understands the culture that drives it.”

“Business does not have a soul unless it understands the culture that drives it.”

This strong statement was made by Jean Paul Adam, the Seychelles Minister for Finance, Trade and Blue Economy, during the official opening of FetAfrik 2015. This year’s official opening of FetAfrik, staged in parallel with Seychelles first International Trade Expo organized by Seychelles Chamber Commerce and Industry (SCCI), sends a strong message that tourism, culture, and trade are part of the same coin. Officially declaring open FetAfrik in the presence of Vice President Danny Faure, the Minister called for the country to take ownership of its culture identity and entrepreneurship.

‘’We in Seychelles strongly believe that an island cannot afford to be an island unto itself.

“We believe that the future lies with brave new synergies, partnerships, and the vision of countries, embracing erstwhile rivals as collaborators, across a broad spectrum of activities.” Minister Adam said.

The Seychelles International Trade Expo saw the participation of businesses from South Africa, India, Zambia, Mauritius, Réunion, and Seychelles. As finance, banking, and business co- existed, the trade expo also brought together banks from Africa.

Marco Francis, Chairman of Seychelles Chamber Commerce and Industry (SCCI), spoke of the social, networking, and marketed elements of the Trade Expo, outlining they are important for a conducive business environment. He added, forging relationship is a key “success for businesses.”

FetAfrik’s official opening ceremony was a spectacular event with distinctive colors and beautiful sounds defining Seychelles’ African heritage. The Malaika song of Mariam Makeba, interpreted by Keshia, a talented Seychellois artist and former contestant of the African Talent Show, regaled the public with her rendition. The National Troupe of Zambia joined the Seychelles National Troupe in a fusion of performance, molding both unique cultures, and Danielle Denis & Christina gave a beautiful interpretation of the anthem of the African Union (AU).

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) .

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Linda Hohnholz

Editor in chief for eTurboNews based in the eTN HQ.

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