By Loretta B Manele
Solomon Islands has extended an open invitation to international investors, governments and stakeholders to join the country in shaping the tourism industry.
This is according to a press release from the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) about Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele’s participation at the World Governments Summit roundtable on the ‘Future of Tourism’, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, (UAE) this week.
Speaking at the event, Manele emphasized on Solomon Islands growing tourism industry and its dedication to unlocking its full potential for sustainable progress.
He said looking towards the future, Solomon Islands is focused on creating a model of tourism that balances environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and community empowerment while fostering economic growth.
Manele voiced that Solomon Islands tourism strategy is rooted in the belief that community involvement is essential.
“The people of Solomon Islands are the true custodians of our islands and their voices must be heard in shaping the future of tourism here.”
Whilst addressing the summit, Manele said the national government has set a number of ambitious targets to achieve by the year 2035.
He stated that these targets include; increasing visitor arrivals from 28,000 to 100,000 by improving air connectivity, destination marketing and tourism infrastructure, boosting of tourism contribution to GDP through strategic investments and policy reforms and diversification of tourism products.
There is also another target which is new job creation for youth and women in areas such as hospitality, cultural tourism, adventure tourism and eco-tourism as well as the development of skilled workforce.
Manele said to achieve the above goals, the government has identified essential strategic pillars which are; investment in infrastructure and connectivity such as expanding airport and maritime facilities, improving transport infrastructure and advancing digital connectivity to support tourism growth.
To add on, other strategic channels the government has also identified are; protection of marine ecosystems, cultural heritage and biodiversity, encouraging eco-tourism and community-based tourism projects, destination marketing and promotion, regulatory and policy reforms and public-private partnerships and international collaboration.
Manele stressed that as Solomon Islands embarks on this transformative journey, the government extends an open invitation to international investors, governments and stakeholders to join in shaping the future of Solomon Islands tourism industry.
“The World Government Summit provides a unique opportunity to form partnerships that will positively impact the global tourism landscape. We invite you to explore investment opportunities in the Solomon Islands and help us build a thriving, sustainable tourism industry that will benefit our people and the world.”
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