Sagupari Welcomes Pacific Tourism Delegates to Tulagi
BY JOY OFASIA
Central Islands Province Premier Hon. Kenneth Sagupari has welcomed delegates attending the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) meeting to Tulagi, highlighting the province’s tourism potential, cultural heritage and natural attractions.
Speaking at Raiders Hotel in Tulagi, Hon. Sagupari extended a warm island welcome to the delegates on behalf of the people of Central Islands Province.
He said the visit provided an opportunity for delegates to experience the authentic island lifestyle and explore the province’s historical and natural attractions beyond Honiara.
“Here in Central Province, life moves to the rhythm of our tides, our trade winds, the coconut fronds rustling in the breeze, and the stories held within our land, reefs and waters,” Hon Sagupari said.
Hon. Sagupari highlighted Tulagi’s World War II heritage sites, its history as the former capital of the British Protectorate, and the continuing traditions and stories of the Gela-Nggela people.
He also encouraged delegates to visit the province’s second national museum to learn more about the history of the Solomon Islands, including colonial times and the sacrifices of the Second World War.
The Premier said tourism in Central Islands Province was not only about hotels and beaches, but also about preserving culture, heritage and the natural environment.
He said the provincial government was working with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and other stakeholders to develop its Tulagi Tourism Hub vision.
The initiative aims to encourage responsible, community-centred tourism investment that creates employment and livelihoods for local communities while protecting customary land, culture and marine resources.
Following the welcome, delegates were scheduled to visit Rua Koukomu, also known as Double Island, for swimming, snorkelling and other recreational activities.
Mr Sagupari expressed hope that the visit would encourage stronger tourism partnerships across the Pacific and that the delegates would return to Central Islands Province in the future.
