The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MTCA) in Fiji has officially partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office, marking a significant advancement in efforts to bolster resilience within Fiji’s tourism sector. This agreement was signed on April 1, 2025, and aims to strike a balance between the growth of tourism and the management of environmental, climate, and disaster risks. Additionally, it emphasizes ensuring that local communities benefit equitably while preserving Fiji’s rich cultural heritage.
Key components of this collaboration will support the implementation of Fiji’s National Sustainable Tourism Framework for 2024-2034, focusing on risk-informed initiatives. As part of the agreement, two government positions will be established to foster capacity building and community-based tourism development.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, expressed that this partnership is a crucial step in safeguarding the tourism industry. He emphasized the importance of integrating resilience into governance systems, stating that this effort not only protects livelihoods but also ensures the vibrant preservation of natural and cultural treasures for future generations.
Permanent Secretary Salaseini Daunabuna echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of sustainable governance in promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development amidst vulnerabilities.
UNDP Pacific Office Deputy Resident Representative, Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov, added that tourism has the capacity to alleviate poverty, promote cultural heritage, and encourage conservation efforts. He expressed pride in collaborating with MTCA to implement initiatives through a risk-informed perspective.
This program is part of the Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific (Gov4Res) project, supported by several international partners, including Australia, Korea, New Zealand, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
The partnership illustrates Fiji’s proactive approach toward sustainable tourism practices, which not only fortify the tourism sector’s future resilience but also serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. The commitment to sustainable governance within tourism paves the way for a flourishing tourism landscape that aligns with global trends in responsible travel practices, providing a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji’s tourism industry.
Leave a comment