The orchid garden at Barbarons, otherwise known as Indian Ocean Nurseries, is one of the components of the SMB earmarked for privatisation.
The project, brainchild of the former SMB strongman Mukesh Valabhji, was conceived to produce orchids for export. During its existence of close to 20 years, it gobbled up tens of millions of rupees, but failed to produce flowers even for Valabji’s grandiose wedding a few years ago. Flowers were imported to brighten up the lavish reception at the Plantation Club, marking the union of this Jack of all trades to lawyer Laura Alcindor.
It was not uncommon for the Barbarons nursery to buy flowers from other local growers. In such instances, a 3-ton pick-up truck with three men was often dispatched to fetch the dozen anthuriums. Other lavishness included an office complex, modeled on the SIBA warehouses in
There has been speculation about the future of the failed nursery. At a press briefing last week Chinese Ambassador Geng Wenbing said that a planned agricultural project will be located at Grand Anse. He never mentioned Barbarons.
Anyway, it is clear that whoever takes over the tens of hectares of land which had once been carefully fenced off to discourage stealing of the precious orchids, will not have growing flowers in mind.
Most of the thirty workers have been made redundant, but security guards remain to keep a vigil over the rotting fencing.
Former SMB chairman, ex-President Rene, drives past every day from and to his 10 acre residence at Anse Polite a few kilometers away.
He possibly lets out a chuckle of amusement. But most Seychellois, who now have to contend with prohibitive food prices, are not amused, as the failed venture cost them dearly.