The Seychelles Fisheries Authority (SFA), in close collaboration with various international partners as part of the Joint Analytical Cell initiative, successfully conducted an extensive three-day capacity-building workshop from 24th to 26th March 2026, at the J&S Conference Room in Perseverance.
This significant training event brought together a diverse group of representatives from key maritime enforcement agencies, including the Seychelles Coast Guard, Seychelles Air Force, and Marine Police. The primary objective of the workshop was to reinforce inter-agency collaboration, particularly in the areas of monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) operations, which are critical for the protection and sustainable management of Seychelles’ marine resources.
The workshop was meticulously designed to focus on three key areas: strengthening operational planning, enhancing the execution of patrol activities, and fostering a more analytical approach to maritime enforcement. Participants were introduced to structured analytical methodologies, prominently featuring the Joint Analytical Cell (JAC) approach, which aims to improve pre-operation analysis and craft intelligence-led patrol planning for more effective outcomes.
On the first day of training, participants engaged in a series of introductory sessions that outlined the current practices in pre-operation analysis. They learned about the significance of structured analytical methodologies and participated in various practical exercises. These exercises were particularly beneficial as they allowed attendees to apply these tools to real or simulated patrol scenarios, fostering a hands-on understanding of how to develop effective patrol briefs.
The second day of the workshop was dedicated to the deepening of analytical work, where participants focused on refining their assessments. This day included interactive sessions designed to enhance their ability to interpret complex risk factors and operational data. By the end of the day, participants were better equipped to make informed decisions, contributing to more strategic and efficient patrol operations.
On the final day, participants had the opportunity to present their pre-patrol briefs, showcasing the skills and knowledge they had acquired over the previous days. This session was not only a platform for sharing insights but also included discussions on live patrol support. The group reflected on the applicability of the learned analytical methodologies within the context of the SFA’s operations. Constructive dialogues facilitated collaborative discussions about upcoming patrols, ultimately leading to the development of preliminary analytical support plans tailored to enhance enforcement initiatives.
This workshop marks a crucial advancement in enhancing Seychelles’ maritime surveillance capabilities. By promoting intelligence-driven operations, fostering improved situational awareness, and strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies, this initiative significantly contributes to the sustainable management of Seychelles’ precious marine resources and the effectiveness of its maritime security framework.
