Solomons sets sight on bigger and better future

Solomons sets sight on bigger and better future

The Solomon Islands is looking to make tourism a major economic driver within the next five years, and has a strategy to make it happen.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has officially launched a key National Tourism Development Strategy (SINTDS), which sets out the Solomon government’s commitment to transforming the country into a unique tourist destination, and as a result, boost development and stimulate international visitation.

The strategy is funded by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation and the European Union, and hopes to build a successful result within a five-year timeframe.

However, the Prime Minister cautioned that even with relatively modest 9% growth proposed in the SINTDS, achieving  targets will require sustained commitment to the strategy backed  by strong leadership, increased investment and additional government and donor resourcing.

Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau ceo Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto has played a key role in helping shape the SINTDS in conjunction with his Department of Tourism counterparts headed by Director of Tourism Barney Sivoro.

Speaking from Melbourne, where he is attending the 2015 South Pacific  Tourism Exchange,  Tuamoto agreed that compared to other neighbouring destinations, the 9% growth was a restrained target.

“The reality here is that for the first time the Solomon Islands government is serious about tourism and has committed major resources into the sector,” Tuamoto said.

“Given the Solomon Islands’ traditional sources of wealth are now well into ‘sunset’ mode, tourism growth has become a priority area for the economic and social well-being of the country.”

“For us as industry players, having the government make this major commitment to tourism tells us where we want to go. You can achieve almost any goal if you plan your steps wisely and establish a time frame that allows you to carry out those steps.

The SINTDS has been extremely well researched with key drivers identified. It is now time for the Solomon Islands to take the next step and make those aspirations a reality.”

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