Seychelles is advancing sustainable sandfish aquaculture to protect fragile marine ecosystems while generating new economic opportunities for coastal communities. With wild sea cucumber stocks under pressure from overharvesting, the initiative supports the country’s blue economy agenda by reducing dependence on natural populations and promoting environmentally responsible livelihoods. The programme, highlighted at the 19th FAO Subregional Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Meeting for Southern Africa, demonstrates how innovative aquaculture practices can strengthen both conservation and local economies.
Declining sea cucumber stocks have long threatened biodiversity and income security for artisanal fishers in Seychelles. The sandfish species (Holothuria scabra) is particularly vulnerable to overexploitation, prompting the government to prioritize sustainable aquaculture as a strategic response to resource depletion, food system vulnerabilities, and the need for inclusive economic diversification. The initiative aligns with Seychelles’ broader blue economy framework, balancing ecological protection with livelihood development.
The programme focuses on science-driven hatchery seed production and community-based grow-out systems for sandfish. Through applied research, standardized hatchery protocols, environmental monitoring, and practical training, coastal households have been equipped with the skills and knowledge to produce sea cucumber juveniles sustainably. Collaboration between government agencies, scientific partners, and local communities has ensured responsible husbandry practices, technical capacity building, and active community participation, laying the foundation for a locally owned and environmentally sound aquaculture value chain.
Early results show successful large-scale production of juvenile sandfish and promising returns from pilot grow-out sites. Coastal families have diversified income sources, enhanced food system resilience, and acquired practical aquaculture expertise. Community engagement has strengthened incentives for marine stewardship and responsible resource management. Key lessons highlight the importance of a reliable seed supply, site-specific environmental management, and meaningful local ownership for long-term sustainability.
Seychelles is now positioned to scale the model by increasing hatchery capacity, improving regulatory frameworks, fostering public-private partnerships, and expanding community training and monitoring systems. Access to finance and technical services will further support the growth of the sandfish value chain, providing a replicable blueprint for other coastal nations aiming to conserve marine biodiversity while creating sustainable jobs. By centering communities in innovation and linking aquaculture development with conservation goals, Seychelles is building an inclusive, resilient, and ocean-driven future.
