Seychelles is likely to be linked to a broadband fibre-optic cable – which will dramatically improve internet connections – by the end of next year, it was revealed yesterday.

Benjamin Choppy, principal secretary for information communications technology, told journalists that a decision is expected to be made by the end of March this year on the kind of system the country will opt for out of the four being considered.

A detailed feasibility study of a Seychelles-East Africa fibre-optic cable link was officially launched yesterday.

The study, which will include an environmental and social impact assessment, is seen as a major step towards boosting internet and phone connections with the rest of the world.

A major step to boosting telecommunications between Seychelles and the rest of the world has been taken with an agreement for a detailed study on a fibre-optic cable link.

A contract for the feasibility study has been signed by the government – through the Department of Information Communications Technology – and specialist French company Axiom.

Seychelles has joined a system to exchange information on livestock with other members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Chief executive Antoine-Marie Moustache of the Seychelles Agricultural Agency launched the Livestock Information Management System (Lims) yesterday at Care House in the presence of SADC officials and Seychellois who use or give information on livestock.

A comprehensive report analysing the economic situation in Seychelles features in this year’s African Economic Outlook.

The publication, which is produced jointly by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), was officially launched here yesterday.

Seychelles is now hosting a major meeting of experts from 13 East African countries who are focusing on information and communication technology.

The three-day meeting, being held by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (Uneca), started yesterday at the International Conference Centre under the theme: Tracking progress in implementing ICTs for development in Eastern Africa.