Seychelles: The Saga of a Small Nation Navigating the Cross-Currents of a Big World - Softcover

Mancham, James

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1557789150 ISBN 13: 9781557789150

Publisher: Paragon House, 2015

Synopsis

One of the most beautiful places in the world, Seychelles is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean that received its independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. Abandoned by England and betrayed by France, its founding president lost power in a communist coup spearheaded by the Prime Minister the following year. Following the collapse of communism and its own bankruptcy, Seychelles has been finding an exemplary path to political stability and economic development under the leadership of current president James A. Michel and with the help of the U.A.E.As that founding president, Sir James R. Mancham is in a unique position to tell the story of this transformation, details of the current nation on the move, and thoughts on the way forward to a peaceful and prosperous future. Mancham shares a goldmine of political wisdom learned in his wide-ranging global experiences that have taught him lessons about economic development, governance, geopolitics, friendship, and most importantly about not giving up when it seems the entire world has gone against you. The pristine islands that Mancham describes in this tropical paradise will make the reader want to visit the Seychelles.

About this title

About the Author

JAMES RICHARD MANCHAM was the first President of the Republic of Seychelles. Trained as a Barrister in London, he returned to serve as a member of the Executive Council of the British colonial administration. Prior to independence, he founded the Seychelles Democratic Party and was then elected President when the British left. He organized the building of the first airport in Seychelles, which increased tourism and economic development. He was overthrown in a socialist coup in 1977 and lived in exile 15 years, becoming successful in selling private islands and managing a German airline, among other things. He returned to Seychelles in 1992 to serve as an advisor for economic development and tourism, and serves as an emissary of Seychelles to numerous international organizations.

Review

An inspirational story of a small country from colonial rule to nationhood and prosperity, as well as a vision for the future.... Mr. Mancham’s latest book clearly involved significant research, covering everyday life in Seychelles as well as history, geography, and strategic location in the middle of the Indian Ocean. (Victoria Times)

It is a must-read book, which should easily find its way in the library of any person who aspires to become a future leader in a very dynamic world. (Dr. Peter Larose, Executive Director, Africa Group 1, The World Bank Group)

..an impressive work. I have no doubt that this book will allow its readers to gain a better understanding of the fascinating history of the Seychelles and how it has come to be the country that it is today. (HE Peter Tomka, President of the International Court of Justice)

He is ambitious, politically shrewd, and a devoted Seychellois. He has the flamboyance of a Trudeau, the political determination of a Lee Kuan Yew, and the stamina for travel of a Kissinger. (Alan Baily, The Times of London)

Edition details

• Publisher: Paragon House
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 1557789150
• ISBN 13: 9781557789150
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 464