From the 18th to the 23rd of May 2026, the National Assembly of Seychelles participated in the Southern African Development Community Organisation of Public Accounts Committee (SADCOPAC) Sub-Committee Meetings and Regional Training Programme held in Swakopmund, Namibia. The delegation was comprised of Hon. Sandy Arissol, Hon. Conrad Gabriel, and Committee Clerk to the Finance & Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) Ms. Ranishaa Chetty.
The Sub-Committee meetings workshop and related sessions brought together Members of Parliament, Committee Clerks, and representatives from SADC states serving on the Public Accounts Committees (PACs) to discuss the strategic direction of SADCOPAC as well as governance frameworks, constitutional review, and preparation for such Committees. During the sessions, participants reviewed the drafted SADCOPAC Strategic Plan for the years 2026-2030, discussed the implementation frameworks and resource mobilisation strategies, and conducted due diligence on the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SADCOPAC and the African Parliamentarians' Network Against Corruption (APNAC). The dialogues also focused on the review of the SADCOPAC Constitution and the Election Policy for Office Bearers of the organisation, as well as the expectations of the upcoming conference in Eswatini.
Hon. Arrisol actively contributed throughout the workshop by making several interventions and sharing Seychelles’ perspective on matters relating to the FPAC, institutional strengthening measures, and the importance of accountability. Speaking during the deliberations, Hon. Arrisol emphasized the important role played by Committee Clerks in preserving institutional knowledge within the parliamentary system and in providing key assistance to the Committee. He noted that, “It is important that committee clerks are also provided with forums and opportunities for trainings and capacity--building, as they are the ones who remain with the institutional memory of committees, unlike Members of Parliament who serve on a mandate”. Following the sub-committee meetings, the delegation participated in a three-day training workshop, during which Hon. Arissol delivered a presentation under the theme ‘Strengthening Oversight Capacities for sustainable development’. This workshop had the aim of enhancing accountability and transparency in public financial management and focusing on the importance of collaboration between oversight institutions and stakeholders in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The official programme concluded with a closing ceremony, chaired by Hon. Arissol in his capacity as Deputy Treasurer of SADCOPAC, and a presentation of certificates to all delegates and officials who attended. The participation of the National Assembly of Seychelles reflects the continued commitment of parliament in the strengthening of oversight, while also promoting the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices amongst the SADC countries.
