The Seychelles Infrastructure Agency (SIA) officially handed over the newly revamped La Digue Magistrate Court project to the Judiciary of Seychelles on Friday, 28 August 2026, during a ceremony held at the Palais de Justice.
The handover marks an important milestone in the Judiciary’s efforts to bring a modern, secure and accessible justice facility closer to the people of La Digue. The project was jointly managed by SIA and the Judiciary, following years of advocacy for the improvement of the Court’s ageing infrastructure.
The formal handover was marked by the signing of the relevant documents between the SIA and the Chief Justice, officially transferring the completed project to the Judiciary.
In his remarks, the Chief Justice expressed his appreciation to everyone who contributed to bringing the project to fruition, recognising the collaboration and commitment of the teams involved in transforming the Court into a more suitable environment for the administration of justice on La Digue.
The ceremony also featured a detailed presentation by the Judiciary’s Director for Operations and Logistics, Mr. Paul Derjacques, who presented before-and-after images of the building, demonstrating the extent of the transformation. He also outlined some of the final touch-ups, cleaning and preparations still required before the facility is fully operational.
The renovation represents a significant improvement to a building that dates back to the 1950s–1960s and had, over the years, developed serious structural and functional issues. An assessment conducted by the Judiciary in May 2024 identified extensive cracking both internally and externally, deteriorating plasterwork, exposed structural elements, damaged windows and other issues that affected the safety, functionality and suitability of the Court.
The completed works included the installation of a new ceiling and tiles, internal and external wall repairs, replacement of lime plaster with cement plaster, painting, a new internal door to the Magistrate’s Chamber and improvements to the courtroom. The project also included work on the Magistrate’s Bench, Witness Box, public benches and lawyers’ desk, as well as provisions for air-conditioning and the installation of necessary furniture.
The renovation followed the approval of a contract awarded through the SIA-managed tender process to LABCO (Pty) Company Ltd for SCR 1,255,581.50. Works commenced in March 2026 and were closely monitored by both the SIA and Judiciary throughout their implementation.
La Digue Magistrate Court plays an important role in serving the island’s approximately 2,500 residents, handling civil, criminal, family and juvenile matters. The improved facility is expected to provide a more appropriate environment for court users, staff and legal practitioners, while supporting the Judiciary’s wider commitment to improving access to justice across Seychelles.
The Judiciary extends its appreciation to the Seychelles Infrastructure Agency, LABCO (Pty) Company Ltd, and all the teams and individuals who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
The completion of the La Digue Court project will be further celebrated with the official reopening of the court ceremony on Monday 31 August at La Passe, La Digue.