Vanuatu marks Tourism Day with focus on environment and culture

October 1, 2024 9:39 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Ezra Toara & Julia Charley.

This year, Vanuatu’s celebration of World Tourism Day centres on the theme, “Environment and Culture is the Road of Tourism in Our Communities,” highlighting the vital role tourism plays in connecting different cultures and traditions.

Finance Minister and Acting Minister for the Ministry of Trade and Commerce (MOTC), Johnny Koanapo, delivered a statement on September 27, noting the potential of sustainable tourism to create jobs, encourage inclusion, and strengthen local economies.

He also reflected on the message from United Nations (UN) Secretary-General (SG) António Guterres, saying, “By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it can help reduce tensions and promote peaceful coexistence.”

As an archipelago in the South Pacific, Vanuatu is adopting a broad approach to tourism development, focusing on collaboration across different sectors.

The aim is to attract more visitors, improve air travel links, and draw in tourists who support the country’s sustainable tourism goals.

Known for its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife, Vanuatu is working to protect its natural and cultural heritage while promoting economic growth.

Koanapo pointed out that as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Vanuatu is particularly vulnerable to climate change, making it essential to plan for resilience in the tourism sector.

Achieving the goals of The People’s Plan (Vanuatu 2030), especially shared prosperity, requires close cooperation across ministries, as policies and sectors are interconnected. Although data limitations pose challenges, Koanapo said that partnerships at various levels are helping the country promote and measure inclusive tourism.

Vanuatu’s tourism strategy combines environmental protection, community engagement, and economic diversification. By building connections between tourism and other sectors, the country aims to ensure tourism contributes positively to national resilience and prosperity.

Koanapo also underlined the importance of reliable aviation connectivity, which is key to both tourism and trade. As Minister of Finance and Economic Management, he reassured that the government is committed to restoring domestic air links, aiming to achieve this by the end of 2024, if not sooner.