UK helps the Seychelles tackle piracy
The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is working with the Seychelles Government to help tackle piracy in the Indian Ocean by delivering training to support maritime security and safety of navigation.
Funded by the UK Government’s Conflict, Stability and Security Fund (CSSF), the bespoke Security of Navigation, Stabilisation Advice and Training (SONSAT) will help the Seychelles to share vital maritime safety information with ships and partners in the region.
Paul Merchant, SONSAT capability development manager at UKHO, said that threat of piracy and illegal and unregulated fishing in the Indian Ocean is of huge concern to the Seychelles.
“By working together with the Seychelles to improve Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) in the region, and by building awareness of the legalities and obligations placed upon nations when broadcasting maritime safety information, we can help tackle the issues that threaten the safety of our merchant mariners,” said Mr Merchant.
Capability development
UKHO experts delivered a series of maritime security capability development seminars and intelligence briefs to government officials in the Seychelles from 18-22 February.
One area of focus included raising awareness of existing infrastructure and services, such as the World-Wide Navigational Warning Service (WWNWS) and Rescue Coordination Centres (RCCs), that could help them to circulate vital security information in the region.
UKHO delegates provided advice and guidance on how to coordinate operations between these services effectively and within the realms of the required legal framework.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
