Press Relations in Seychelles: Strategic Guide for Effective Communication

Introduction

With a small and tightly regulated media market, press relations in Seychelles require a personalized and locally adapted approach. This guide will help you understand the Seychellois media ecosystem, identify the right outlets, and optimize your visibility in the archipelago.

1. Seychelles at a Glance

• Capital: Victoria (Mahé Island)

• Population: approximately 93,000 inhabitants

• Area: 455 km² (116 islands)

• Official Languages: Seychellois Creole, English, French

• Economy: Tourism (≈ 30% of GDP), fishing

• Tourism: Over 360,000 visitors annually

2. Press Freedom: A Controlled Framework

• Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, but restrictive laws remain in place

• Ranked “partly free” by Freedom House

• Priority given to promoting the country’s tourism image, limiting critical reporting

• Media overseen by the Department of Information Communications Technology

• Internet penetration around 60%, with monitored usage

Key takeaway: Seychelles’ media landscape is small and highly centralized, with public outlets dominating.

3. Key Media in Seychelles

Print Press

• Nation – Official national newspaper

• Today in Seychelles – Independent daily

Radio

• SBC Radio – National public broadcaster

• Pure 907 FM, K-Radio – Private stations

Television

• Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) – Sole national TV channel

Online Media

• Seychelles News Agency (SNA) – Official online news agency

4. Specifics of Press Relations in Seychelles

• Small market → requires a targeted and personalized approach

• Multi-skilled journalists → provide clear, factual content

• Attractive topics: tourism, environment, diplomacy

• Favor non-controversial communication, respecting local sensitivities

5. Tips for Distributing a Press Release

• Identify relevant media depending on the theme (tourism, politics, environment)

• Adapt tone and content to local sensitivities

• Provide verified, visually engaging information

• Build direct and long-term relationships with journalists

• Avoid sensitive topics that may be perceived as criticism of the country

Conclusion

In Seychelles, successful communication depends on precision, relevance, and the quality of relationships with local newsrooms. In a small media market, every interaction matters: prioritize proximity, respect, and local adaptation to secure positive media coverage.