Seychelles works with Central Papua in tourism, natural resources

Central Papua Governor Meki Fritz Nawipa stated that the Republic of Seychelles, Africa's smallest country, is willing to assist in developing Central Papua's tourism sector, including improving community skills in homestay management, culinary arts, crafts, and other tourism activities.

"The Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to Indonesia, Nico Barito, is already in Nabire Regency, Central Papua Province, and will share his experience to help develop the tourism potential here," he said in a statement received in Jayapura Regency, Central Papua, on Nov. 10, 2025.

Nawipa added that both parties have agreed to promote sustainable tourism in Central Papua, focusing on environmental conservation and local economic empowerment.

"We appreciate the visit of the Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to Nabire Regency. Hopefully, it will bring new hope for regional development," he said.

Meanwhile, Barito stated that Seychelles is eager to optimize the tourism potential of Central Papua, as its natural resource potential is similar to that of the East African country. He believes Central Papua has significant potential in natural resource management, tourism, and investment, which, if properly managed, could increase regional income.

"Coastal cleanups, mangrove planting, and organic fish and shrimp cultivation could become new sources of economic [development]," he said.

Barito added that conservation areas in Central Papua could remain protected for at least the next decade with local community involvement and proper management

"We envision collaborating with banks to establish a conservation and development fund so Central Papua will have resource resilience for the future," he concluded.