Seychelles Initiates Discussions on Climate Change’s Health Impacts at COP28
Dubai – At the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), Seychelles spearheaded discussions on the impact of climate change on health, highlighting the specific challenges faced by small island developing states (SIDS). Minister for Health, Peggy Vidot, initiated these crucial conversations in Dubai.
According to Seychelles News Agency, this marks a significant moment at COP28, as it is the first time the conference has placed a significant focus on health in the context of climate change. Under the theme “Climate change and human health in Seychelles: a SIDS perspective,” the discussions were aimed at understanding the unique challenges faced by nations like Seychelles.
Sanjeev Pugazhendi, the principal policy analyst in the Ministry of Health, outlined the multifaceted challenges Seychelles encounters due to climate change. These include direct injuries from landslides, fires leading to injuries and air pollution, respiratory diseases, and an increase in water-borne illnesses like leptospirosis, especially after heavy rains.
The health ministry, in collaboration with the Seychelles Meteorological Authority, has observed a significant rise in leptospirosis cases, positioning Seychelles among the highest in global incidence rates. Vidot expressed concerns about the additional strain on the health system, already burdened by COVID-19, and emphasized the need for global collaboration and partnerships to address these challenges.
Seychelles, an Indian Ocean archipelago, has established partnerships with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the African Union (AU), and various non-governmental organizations to strategize its response to climate change impacts on health. This includes relocating certain health infrastructure and working regionally with organizations like the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC).
Pugazhendi also highlighted the importance of promoting climate change awareness within the health sector and addressing societal challenges exacerbated by COVID-19 and other issues. A recent meteorological report from Seychelles shows an increase in warm days, unpredictable rainfall, and an annual sea level rise, contributing to health-related challenges like the dengue fever epidemic, which has escalated since 2015.
Additionally, non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, blood pressure, and kidney disease have been impacted by climate change, with kidney diseases increasing by 80 percent over the last decade. These health issues are causing significant socio-economic disruptions in the country.
Seychelles is among 80 countries committed to the WHO-led Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH), which aims to enhance healthcare facilities, focusing on efficiency, water sanitation, and waste management. This commitment, reinforced since COP26, offers access to resources from bilateral donors, the World Bank, and a comprehensive nutritional action plan.