Indigenous communities in Fiji are being urged to embrace their heritage and actively engage in the tourism industry, a sector that significantly contributes to the nation’s economy. Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka emphasized this point during his address at the Fiji Indigenous Business Council Symposium held at the Novotel in Lami. He stressed the importance of empowering local communities, whose cultural and natural resources are foundational to Fiji’s tourism success.
Gavoka pointed out that while tourism represents about 40% of Fiji’s GDP, the financial benefits have not sufficiently reached the indigenous communities that steward these valuable assets. He called for a collaborative effort among the government, private sector, and indigenous landowners to create partnerships that would ensure a more equitable distribution of tourism revenues.
During the symposium, he encouraged landowners to take a leadership role in shaping the future of tourism. Highlighting the wisdom inherent in community-driven efforts, he urged the private sector to build genuine connections with indigenous businesses, asserting that when these communities prosper, the tourism industry flourishes.
Similar sentiments were echoed in previous discussions, emphasizing the need for greater inclusion of indigenous voices within the tourism landscape. At a recent World Travel & Tourism Council summit, Gavoka reinforced the idea that meaningful integration of indigenous culture into tourism could provide more enriching experiences for visitors, while simultaneously uplifting the local community. This vision aligns with ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development, a critical aspect of Fiji’s future economic strategy.
Furthermore, the Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance (VITA) has initiated measures to strengthen indigenous tourism participation, focusing on community empowerment and sustainable practices. These efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to integrating indigenous perspectives in tourism, promoting economic growth that respects cultural heritage.
As Fiji moves forward, the active participation of indigenous communities in the tourism sector promises not only to enhance the visitor experience but also to elevate the local economy, fostering a hopeful and sustainable future.
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