The Western Indian Ocean Marine & Science Association or WIOMSA was formed in 1994. Since then it has become a major force in the region for capacity development, scientific exchange and lobbying on marine issues. At the core of the Association is its support for scientific research to generate management outcomes in the region.

The bi-yearly environmental magazine Zwazo produced by Nature Seychelles and covering the period July to December 2005 has been released. A public service is offered through free copies to key sections of society. Members, wildlife clubs, government agencies, private companies, NGOs, libraries and international and regional organisations have already received copies of this colorful and information-packed publication.

The outbreak on a large commercial chicken farm in Nigeria is the first reported outbreak of “bird flu” in Africa and a serious development in the continuing spread of the H5N1 virus. Experts believe the bird flu arrived in Nigeria through infected chickens brought into the country in defiance of Nigeria’s import controls. This was admitted recently by Nigeria’s agriculture Minister Adamu Bello.

It is illegal to import live wild birds or birds for pets in Seychelles  After the spread of the avian flu, the local authorities have maintained the ban on imports of all live birds. We have been fortunate to avoid some of the more serious consequences of the irresponsible movement of wild birds. Although some species have been lost from these islands, the trade in live birds has not been one of the reasons. We had the foresight to outlaw these practices before any damage was done. Other countries have paid the price for not doing the same.