Arab Tourism News
As international observers, we are compelled to voice deep concern over recent events on Assomption Island, situated only a short distance from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aldabra Atoll. Reports confirm that an endemic giant tortoise – a species iconic to Seychelles and featured on its national emblem – has been found dead, trampled during ongoing construction for an “eco-tourism” hotel development.
This development raises serious questions about Seychelles’ commitment to its reputation as a global leader in conservation. The government has long presented Seychelles as a small island state championing biodiversity and climate responsibility. Yet the destruction of endemic wildlife in the shadow of Aldabra undermines that credibility.
President Wavel Ramkalawan has, on multiple occasions, pledged that environmental stewardship would be a national priority. The current incident, however, suggests a profound disconnect between words and practice. Allowing protected species to perish during construction works reflects poorly not only on local enforcement but also on national leadership.
The controversy surrounding Assomption has already spilled beyond Seychelles’ shores. Disputes linked to the development are now scheduled to be settled in Qatar – a process that risks exposing the country’s environmental contradictions before an international tribunal. This is a sobering reality for a nation whose global image rests heavily on its role as guardian of fragile island ecosystems.
The trampling of a single tortoise may seem isolated, but symbolically it represents much more: the willingness to sacrifice irreplaceable biodiversity for short-term gain, the failure to uphold the sanctity of heritage sites, and the erosion of public trust in conservation commitments.
Seychelles stands at a crossroads. The world is watching. To retain its standing as a true leader in environmental protection, its government must urgently reconcile its rhetoric with its actions.
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