The Rosie Travel Group has unveiled its Vualiku initiative to support the Government’s Vualiku tourism development plan for the Vanua Levu region in Fiji. This initiative signifies a groundbreaking collaboration with community-based tourism operators, emphasizing training and empowerment to enhance local adventure tourism experiences and stimulate economic growth for local communities.
During the inaugural ceremony in Vuadomo Village, representatives from seven participating communities, along with the Muanivatu Trails partnership, signed a mentorship agreement aimed at cultivating a unique array of adventure experiences that celebrate the rich culture, environment, and arts found in these areas. Eroni Puamau, the general manager of Rosie Travel Group, expressed pride in launching this initiative in the North and highlighted the importance of nurturing local talents to establish community-run tourism businesses supported by Rosie’s extensive global network.
Puamau noted the historical significance of this project, relating it to the vision of Rosie—a pioneer in tourism development—who sought to empower communities for decades. This initiative aims to transform the tourism sector, offering essential training, digital tools for online transactions, and access to Rosie’s broad distribution platform. The partnership’s goal is not only to prepare community experiences for the market but also to provide ongoing technical support and mentoring.
Epeli Asaro, managing director of Muanivatu Trails, articulated the importance of this partnership, reflecting on long-held dreams of developing community tourism. He expressed gratitude for this opportunity, emphasizing the shared values and vision about crafting a prosperous future for the local people.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts under the Vualiku tourism development program, which seeks to unlock the potential of Vanua Levu as a thriving tourism hub. The government, supported significantly by the World Bank’s $400 million investment over the next ten years, aims to enhance local economies by focusing on sustainable tourism practices, infrastructural development, and creating job opportunities within the region.
There is considerable optimism around these efforts, fostering a collaborative approach that not only promotes environmental sustainability but also ensures that the benefits of tourism development reach the local communities directly. The Vualiku initiative represents a hopeful step towards uplifting the Northern Division, reinforcing the idea that with the right support and resources, communities can thrive through tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.
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