Seychelles establishes new Hydrographic Office for maritime management

The Seychelles Cabinet has approved the establishment of the Seychelles Hydrographic Office (SHO), a new government agency tasked with mapping and managing the nation’s maritime domain. Operating under the Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority (SMSA), the office will serve as a specialized department to coordinate and preserve hydrographic data as a national asset.

With an Exclusive Economic Zone exceeding 1.3 million square kilometers, the initiative aims to improve maritime safety, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring. The SHO will work to standardize data collection regarding underwater features, currents, and hazards, collaborating with international hydrographic organizations to align with global standards. This infrastructure is intended to support the country’s Blue Economy strategy, benefiting commercial shipping, fishing, and marine planning.