Accidental drowning remains a significant and heartbreaking issue in Seychelles, as highlighted by the alarming statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics. More than 80% of those who tragically lose their lives to drowning are men, but this should concern us all. On average, 13 lives are lost each year due to accidental drowning, a stark reminder of the risks we face in our beautiful waters.
The data reveal that over half of all drowning victims are Seychellois nationals, shattering the misconception that these incidents primarily involve tourists. This is a critical point for us to address; as a nation surrounded by the ocean, it’s essential to recognise that this is not merely an outsider’s problem but a pressing issue that affects our community directly.
The figures also indicate a chilling trend: at least one young person under the age of 25 loses their life to drowning each year. This should serve as a wake-up call to all of us. Our youth deserve to be safe and equipped with the skills and knowledge to enjoy our waters responsibly.
While the decline in drowning deaths observed during the Covid-19 pandemic suggests that restrictions on travel and beach access played a role, we cannot afford to be complacent. The years of high fatalities must drive us to take action, particularly given the striking and consistent male overrepresentation in drowning cases. We need to challenge the status quo and proactively engage our male population to foster safer behaviours.
Awareness campaigns must evolve to effectively reach and resonate with younger demographics. We need innovative strategies to emphasise swimming proficiency, responsible behaviours around water, and the dangers of alcohol use.
Now is the time for us to come together as a community. Let’s advocate for vital awareness initiatives that can save lives and make a difference, especially in light of World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25. We have the opportunity to reshape our relationship with our waters, to ensure that they are a source of joy rather than tragedy. Let’s take action before we lose another life. Together, we can make Seychelles safer for everyone.
—Source: NBS
