The National Planning Department is mandated to guide and advise the Government in the design, coordination, and execution of development policies and strategic interventions that advance the country’s key development objectives. As part of its core responsibilities, the department oversees the implementation of the National Development Strategy (NDS), ensuring that all programs and projects are aligned with national priorities and deliver measurable impact.
In fulfilling this role, the department evaluates the effectiveness of development initiatives, mobilizes donor funding, and manages technical assistance provided through bilateral and multilateral partnerships. It also supervises the execution of donor-financed programs and maintains oversight of Seychelles’ international commitments – the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – at both regional and international levels, ensuring timely monitoring and reporting.
Through these functions, the department plays a central role in shaping a cohesive and results-driven development agenda for the nation.
The Department is headed by Mrs. Elisabeth Agathine who is an international development professional with extensive experience in public policy, development finance, and international relations. She currently serves as Principal Secretary, leading Seychelles’ national development strategy and the integration of global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
With over 21 years of public service, 19 of them in the Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Agathine has held several senior roles, including Director of Technical Cooperation and Director General for Planning and External Finance. She began her career in 2003 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before joining the Ministry of Finance in 2006. Throughout her career, she has led key partnerships with the World Bank, IMF, and AfDB, and has deep expertise in donor coordination and development planning particularly within the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) context. She actively engages in emerging areas such as climate change and climate finance, the digital economy, and the integration of sustainable development goals into national policy frameworks.
She holds an LL.M. in International Law from the University of Bristol and a BA in International Relations and Law from De Montfort University. Her professional development includes secondment at the World Bank, training at the Harvard Kennedy School, and The Hague Academy. She also serves on several national and international boards, including the Loss and Damage Fund (SIDS Constituency), the National Bureau of Statistics, and the Housing Finance Company.
Director General for the National Planning Department is Ms. Maryana Labonte
Phone: 4382113
Email: maryana.labonte@finance.gov.sc