SNPA officially opens its first paying trail on Mahe in the Morne Seychellois National Park.

It was the Minister for Environment Energy and Climate Change Mr Wallace Cosgrow and Chairperson of SNPA board, Dr Bijoux who officially opened the Copolia Trail. It all started at the entrance of the trail, at Sans Soucis, where the CEO of SNPA made his opening remarks, highlighting the new features of the trail.

Minister Wallace Cosgrow crossing the new boardwalk at the beginning of the trail

CEO also thanked the GoS-GEF-UNDP Protected Area Finance Project for financing this redevelopment. SNPA have turned this trail into one of the best in the country. The Minister talked about the impact of COVID 19 on SNPA as an organisation that is highly dependent on tourism. He explained the public-private partnership that exist in this area. He also wished all SNPA staff and Rangers in the country a happy World Ranger Day, an IUCN sanctioned event that is celebrated on 31st July each year. The ex-director for Forestry and National Park, Mr Jacqueline was also rewarded for his years of service at the Authority. After group photo, the Minister, Chairperson, PS for Environment, CEO, tour guides and invitees went on a guided tour of the trail. They saw snakes, stick insects, the country's smallest frog and the endemic pitcher plant. All were pleased with the new developments made along the trail ( information boards, signage, bench etc..). It all ended at the 800 m summit with a fantastic view of the Ste Anne Marine Park and Mahe East Coast.