The Red Cross Society of Seychelles (RCSS) has deployed 15 volunteers and staff to support the national response to the fire that broke out at the Providence landfill on Saturday 6 September 2025. The fire, which continues to burn, has created heavy smoke and affected nearby communities and infrastructure.
RCSS teams are working alongside the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency (SFRSA), the Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD), and the Ministry of Health to provide much-needed relief to frontline firefighters. Volunteers are offering massage therapy to ease fatigue, rehydration and cold compress treatment for exhaustion, as well as psychosocial support to help manage stress. Some firefighters have been treated for exhaustion, smoke inhalation, and other minor injuries.
In addition, the RCSS Secretary General, Marie-May Esparon, together with the Health Coordinator, Mrs Karine Labonte, the Cascade District Administrator, Ms Begita Melanie, Mrs Vesna Gertrude, and the Director for Community Affairs, visited the Roche Caiman Sports Complex on Sunday morning, where 35 residents have been temporarily relocated due to hazardous fumes. The Principal Secretary for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr Kevin Perrine, was also present at the shelter. Most of those relocated are foreign construction workers.
The shelter, managed by the Ministry of Local Government, Culture and Community Development, reports that all residents are in good health with no smoke-related complications. The fire has also partially affected buildings close to the landfill, as well as several boats in the area. The situation remains under close monitoring as firefighting and relief operations continue.
“The Red Cross remains committed to supporting both the emergency responders and those affected by this disaster,” said Marie-May Esparon, the RCSS Secretary General. “Our volunteers are on the ground providing first aid, psychosocial support, and logistics assistance to ensure that those most impacted receive the care they need.”
RCSS continues to work in close coordination with SFRSA, the Ministry of Health, District Administration, and the Ministry of Local Government, Culture and Community Development to provide humanitarian assistance. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
