The Seychelles: Country Profile and Facts

The Seychelles Fact File

Independence: 29 June 1976

GDP:  $1.564 billion

Population: 93,920 people



Seychelles, officially the Republic of Seychelles, is an African island republic on the Indian Ocean. Located northeast of Madagascar, Seychelles is an archipelago of about 115 islands. Its largest capital and largest city is Victoria.

Demographically, Seychelles is Africa’s smallest states. Its population stood at 93,920 in 2017. Interestingly though, the country has no indigenous population. Its present population comprises people of European and Africans descent, as well as soon Indians and Chinese minorities. English, French and Creole are the official languages. Majority of the country’s population is Christian, most of which are Catholics.



Economically, the Seychelles has experienced huge growth levels since independence in 1976. Since its independence, GDP stood at $1.564bn in 2018, and the country had a GDP per capita of $16,332. Tourism is the most important sector of the country’s economy. It employs 26% of the population and holds 55% of GDP. Agriculture accounts for just 2.5% of GDP.

Politically, The Seychelles was a British colony until its independence in 1976. After some periods of instability and coups, the Seychelles became stable by the 1990s. It practices the presidential system of government, where the president is the head of state and head of government. The president is elected for a five year term. The country also has a unicameral legislature, consisting of 34 members who serve five year terms.