Tourism Authority Kiribati

Kaongora Newsletter

Butaritari Island Further Embraces Opportunity for Community-Based Tourism Development

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) embarked on a visit to Butaritari Island from the 17th to the 24th to foster the development of Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Business Plans as part of the tourism product enhancement initiative. Ms. Kiarake Karuaki, an officer specializing in Tourism Product Development and Investment Promotion of TAK, has collaborated with Butaritari villages and communities, aided by the Butaritari Island Council, to shape their tourism offerings.

The consultation for developing Business Plans with CBT operators aims to formalize their activities into small to medium enterprises. These plans will empower communities to navigate the business landscape effectively, including accessing funding or loans for expansion and attracting investment. By establishing a comprehensive business plan, CBTs gain a structured framework for managing and assessing their business performance, aligning with their objectives over time.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati will present these business plans to the CBTs as a mark of recognition, certifying them as CBT operators under its auspices.