BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) successfully concluded a one-day national information session with tourism operators, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration and growing the tourism sector.
The session, held at the Mendana Hotel on Thursday, February 19, brought together tourism operators and industry stakeholders to discuss government plans, policy direction, and strategies for sector development.
In an interview, MCT Permanent Secretary, Bunyan Sivoro said the information session is an annual initiative designed to maintain open communication between the government and private sector operators.
“The purpose of this event is to share updates from the ministry and ensure that our plans are aligned with the operators, who are the drivers of the industry. At the government level, we develop policies and strategic plans, but implementation relies heavily on our tourism operators. That is why partnership is critical,” he said.
He said that the tourism industry cannot thrive if stakeholders work in isolation, adding that collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to achieving sustainable growth.
The Permanent Secretary confirmed that invitations were extended to tourism operators across the country, and those able to travel attended the session.
He said the government’s long-term vision is to empower more Solomon Islanders to lead and benefit from the tourism sector.
“One of our key goals is to ensure that local people actively participate in and benefit from tourism. We encourage individuals or groups with potential tourism sites, accommodation facilities, tours, or cultural products to come forward and join the sector,” he said.
He said that tourism remains one of Solomon Islands’ key economic sectors that is generating income for families and contributing to national revenue.
“The ministry hopes that continued engagement with operators will strengthen service standards, increase local participation, and position the country as a competitive destination in the Pacific region,” he said.
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