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Honoring History: Commemorating the 81st Anniversary of Battle of Tarawa, 2024

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The early morning of the 22nd of November 2024, marked the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of those who fought and lost their lives in one of World War II’s most significant battles. The commemoration event was held at the US Marines Memorial Monument (USMC) on Betio the bloody battlefield of the Battle of Tarawa. The hosting of solemn event was co-funded by the US Government and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) under the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives (MTCIC).

The Battle of Tarawa, which took place from 20th to 23rd November 1943, was a key turning point in the Pacific theater of the war. The commemoration recognized the sacrifices of over 6,000 lives lost—both Allied forces and Japanese soldiers—and the resilience of the I-Kiribati people who endured the devastation.

The Dawn Service event was attended by the Head of State – His Excellency President Taneti Mamau and his Cabinet Ministers and other important dignitaries including the Japanese Ambassdor, family members of the US Marines and guests. The event was officially opened with a prayer, and garlanding of guests and followed by welcome remarks delivered by an elder from the Betio Betio Unimwane Elders Association. This was followed with a harmonious flag raising of the USA, Japanese, and Kiribati flags by the Kiribati Police Service (KPS) Guard of Honor and the playing of the national anthems delivered by the KPS Brass Band.

The Head of State, HE President Taneti Mamau delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the historical significance of the Battle of Tarawa, the importance of preserving its memory, and the enduring commitment to peace and reconciliation. His Excellency also emphasized the country’s heartfelt call for peace to the world, echoing the brutality of wars and the lessons learned from the Battle of Tarawa. He went on to say that Kiribati will continue to honor its past, and events like this serve as a reminder of the shared history and mutual respect between nations where Kiribati sets an example for Peace.

A moment of silence was also observed after the President’s speech, and it was followed by the laying of wreaths. After the ceremony at the USMC monument, the VIPs and guests moved to the WWII Japanese & Korean monuments located at Takoronga also on Betio where the second part of the commemoration was held to pay respects and lay wreaths for the Japanese & Korean losses and it was soon followed with the serving of breakfast and refreshments.

The Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati expressed their gratitude to all who participated, reaffirming their commitment to preserving Kiribati’s historical WWII heritage while promoting the country as a destination where history and peaceful culture converge.

Embracing Kiribati Tradition: Teriaki Canoe Paddling Tournament 2024

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The 2nd Teriaki (Te Riaki) Canoe Paddling Competition, held at the scenic beachside of Mary Café Restaurant at Takoronga, Betio on November 23, 2024, was a thrilling showcase of Kiribati’s rich maritime heritage and community spirit. Participants from various government ministries, companies, and diplomatic partners came together, to participate and compete in cultural canoe paddling event.

This event was hosted by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Development (MFORD) and organized by a committee from several government ministries, including MISE, MEHR, MCIA, MOE, MTCIC, MFED, MICT, MFAI, and MFORD. Representatives from CPPL, TACL, KFL, ANZ Bank, the Australian High Commission, and the New Zealand High Commission also took part. The Tourism Authority of Kiribati was also part of the organizing committee.

The event was marked by a surge of excitement, with canoes often overturning and racers steering unpredictably. This added to the exhilaration and showcased the skill needed to handle these traditional canoes. In addition, this event not only preserves Kiribati’s maritime traditions but also symbolizes community strength and resilience. Visitors and locals alike are invited to witness and participate in this vibrant celebration of culture and unity.

The winners for this year’s competition were outstanding: the men’s category was claimed by the New Zealand High Commission, the women’s category by the Coastal Fisheries Division of MFORD, and Te Atinimarawa Company in the mixed category.
This event will be held again next year, so mark your calendars for next year’s Teriaki Canoe Paddling Competition. Next year’s competition will mark the third tournament, promising even more excitement and community spirit. The date will be updated after mid-year 2025.

The event was proudly sponsored by the EU Sector Support Project, the Australian High Commission, and the generous canoe owners. The Teriaki Tournament organizing committee would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the sponsors and supporters. Their invaluable contributions were instrumental to the success of this event. Kam Bati n Rabwa.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati Welcomes their newly appointed Minister

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) proudly welcomes the newly appointed Minister of the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives (MTCIC), HN Minister Mrs. Tangariki Reete to her new esteemed role. This marks an exciting chapter for the Ministry and TAK as they continue their collaborative efforts to promote Kiribati as a tourism destination while fostering growth in the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives.

As the driving force behind Kiribati’s tourism sector, TAK is eager to work alongside the new Minister to advance initiatives that showcase Kiribati’s unique cultural heritage, pristine natural beauty, and rich historical sites. With a shared commitment to sustainable tourism development, TAK anticipates that the new leadership will bring innovative perspectives and strategies to elevate Kiribati’s profile on the global stage.

TAK Acting Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Reeti Onorio, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating: “We are honored to welcome our new Minister to the MTCIC. Her leadership and vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism and economic development in Kiribati. TAK is committed to supporting the Ministry in achieving its goals and creating meaningful opportunities for the people of Kiribati.”
Under the guidance of the new Minister, TAK looks forward to advancing key projects, including:
• Strengthening Kiribati’s new destination branding efforts.
• Promoting sustainable tourism practices that protect the environment and benefit local communities.
• Enhancing marketing campaigns to attract international visitors; and
• Supporting local businesses and cooperatives.

In addition, TAK extends its warmest welcome and best wishes to the new Minister as she embarks on this journey of service and leadership for the people of Kiribati.

Empowering Tourism: Unveiling Kiribati’s Business Confidence Insights

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati, in collaboration with the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), has released its first-ever Kiribati Business Confidence Index (BCI) Report. The report is based on a month-long survey conducted from October 1st to October 31st, capturing the views of local businesses on the impact and benefits of tourism in Kiribati. This comprehensive survey provides a valuable snapshot of the current business climate and offers insights into the opportunities and challenges faced by the tourism sector in Kiribati.

This marks the first time Kiribati has sought the perspectives of local businesses, making it the inaugural BCI report. In the past, Kiribati has gathered insights from international visitors through the International Visitor Survey and has also sought the views of residents. This year, through the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) project coordinated by the SPTO, Kiribati has successfully collected insights from local businesses regarding the tourism sector.

The report highlights several key findings. An overwhelming majority of businesses (82%) expressed a need for customer service training and business growth education, reflecting a keen interest in enhancing their service delivery and expanding operations. Additionally, 12% also mentioned that improved in internet connectivity is also major opportunities for their business.
Improved customer service and natural attractions were also cited as significant opportunities, each garnering interest from 11% of respondents. The importance of networking was equally highlighted, suggesting that businesses see value in building stronger connections within the tourism sector.

The report reveals a broad agreement among businesses, many of whom acknowledge that tourism is a key driver of the Kiribati economy. This consensus highlights the pivotal role tourism plays in supporting local businesses and boosting regional economic growth.

The report also highlights the impact of COVID-19 on businesses. Interestingly, it shows that the majority, 31%, were not significantly affected by the COVID-19 lockdown. This finding underscores the resilience of many local businesses during the pandemic.

Overall, the Kiribati BCI Report serves as a crucial tool for policymakers, stakeholders, and investors. It not only highlights the current state of the tourism industry in Kiribati but also points to the areas where interventions and support can drive growth and sustainability. As Kiribati continues to develop its tourism offerings, the insights from this report will be instrumental in shaping strategies that enhance the sector’s contributions to the national economy and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Pacific Tourism Organisation and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce and Industry, cooperatives, and local businesses in Kiribati for their unwavering support throughout the duration of the survey. Your collaboration and dedication have been instrumental in the successful completion of this significant initiative. Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to the advancement of tourism in Kiribati.

You can view the Kiribati BCI report here

TAK Welcomes Three University of the South Pacific Students for Internship

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is delighted to welcome three I-Kiribati second-year students from the University of the South Pacific (USP) who are currently undertaking their internship as part of their TS216: Integrated Industry Learning for Tourism and Hospitality course. The students have completed half of their coursework and are now gaining valuable hands-on experience at TAK to complement their academic studies.

The three students are now in their second week at TAK and are in their stage of learning the different roles at TAK. Their six-week internship will conclude on 1st January 2025, providing them with valuable industry insights and practical skills that will enhance their future careers in tourism and hospitality.

TAK is proud to support the professional development of young talents from Kiribati and looks forward to seeing these students grow into skilled professionals who will contribute to the nation’s tourism industry.

The three students expressed their appreciation to TAK for receiving them stating that they have experienced wonderful hospitality from the TAK staff, who are all so friendly. Their attitude reflects exactly what we learned at USP about hospitality, and it has been inspiring to see it in practice.”

TAK wishes these students every success in their internship journey and is committed to providing them with an enriching and rewarding experience.

A Day in Paradise: MS ‘The World’ Embraces Kiritimati

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Kiritimati, Kiribati – Friday, November 29th, 2024, marked a special day for the people of Kiritimati Island as they welcomed MS The World, a luxurious residential cruise ship, to their shores. With 92 residents and 290 crew members onboard, the island was a buzz with excitement and activity.

The day was a resounding success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Kiritimati community. Local artisans showcased their talents with vibrant displays of handcrafted goods, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s unique culture. The atmosphere was further enlivened by captivating performances from local dance and choir groups, including the mesmerizing YCL Aantaai Pipe Band, whose music filled the air at the landing beach.

A special thanks go to the dedicated tour operators who provided exceptional individual services, ensuring that guests experienced the best of Kiritimati. Their passion for their island home shone through in every interaction.

This visit would not have been possible without the collective effort of all Kiritimati people, church communities, and businesses. Their dedication to maintaining the island’s pristine beauty and welcoming atmosphere is truly commendable. The streets were spotless, the smiles were genuine, and the sense of pride in their home was palpable.

The World’s visit to Kiritimati was a testament to the power of community and the beauty of cultural exchange. It was a day filled with laughter, music, and shared experiences, leaving a lasting impression on both visitors and residents alike. To everyone who played a part in making this day so special: Kam Rabwa! (Thank you!)

German Hapag Lloyd Cruise Ship ‘MV Hanseatic Inspiration’ set to Visit Bikati Islet, Butaritari on the 2nd of May 2025

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On November 4th, TAK had the pleasure of meeting with Thomas Schubert from Pacific International Consulting and the Manager of Shipping Agencies of Kiribati (SAOK) to discuss preparations for the anticipated arrival of the cruise ship MV Hanseatic Inspiration at Bikati Islet in Butaritari, scheduled for May 2, 2025. This marks the third visit by a Hapag Lloyd Cruises vessel to Butaritari, following previous visits in 2015 and 2018. Unfortunately, two planned visits to Bikati in 2021 and 2022 had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but with cruise operations resuming last year, Kiribati is pleased to welcome this renewed opportunity.

During the meeting, Mr. Schubert shared that the cruise line was highly impressed with the 2018 excursion and is delighted to once again include Bikati, Butaritari, as a destination on its Great Micronesia Cruise Expedition. The MV Hanseatic Inspiration, departing from New Caledonia and Palau, will carry 220 passengers who will experience a full-day excursion on Bikati Islet. This visit is not only a wonderful opportunity to showcase Kiribati’s unique beauty and culture to international guests but also promises to generate meaningful economic benefits for the Butaritari Island community and Kiribati as a whole.

Photo above from left to right; George Kumkee Jr (Senior Tourism Officer), Reeti Onorio (Agt CEO), Thomas Schubert (Pacific International Consulting), and Naare Taukoriri (Manager Shipping Agencies of Kiribati)

Kiribati Tourism Industry Review 2023

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In 2023, Kiribati experienced and welcomed its first resumption of tourism & travel arrivals marking the arrival of cruise ships after the border closure since the COVID-19 period. A total of 5118 cruise passengers were welcomed in Kiribati for the first time after the COVID-19 lockdown.

The first part of the report highlights important events and key activities that TAK has accomplished which ranged from the establishment of the sustainable tourism policy, preparations for cruise ship arrivals, and TAK’s participation in regional and international expos.

The reports also captured the increase in international arrivals to Kiribati when compared to the previous year 2022. An increase of 364% which doubled the international arrival figure in 2022.

This increase was caused by the resumption of regular flights to Kiribati from Fiji Airways and Nauru Airlines. The reports also provide an average length of stay by purpose of visit and by nationality which shows which country spends more nights in Kiribati. Corporate visitors stayed the longest with 15 nights.

Domestic tourism travel by sea increased by 25% when compared to 2022 marine travel while domestic travel by air also decreased by 5%.

The report further provides the number of visitors visiting the Museum and the main purpose of their visits.
The growth in tourism supply was also stated in the reports with a breakdown of the number of female staff and male staff currently working at accommodations in Kiribati.

TAK continued to give its acknowledgement to the following Ministries and companies for their continued support and contributions to the report, Air Kiribati Limited; the Marine Guard; the Immigration department, Shipping Agencies of Kiribati, Kiribati Customs Office and the tourism operators and accommodations that supplied data for the purpose of this report.

You can view the full report here

Butaritari Island Gears Up for a Major Tourism Milestone

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is making significant steps to promote Butaritari as a new outer island new destination for travellers. With the upcoming tourism launch, the focus on community-based tourism is set to offer visitors a unique and authentic experience. The preparation includes meticulous planning of tours and operations, ensuring that visitors will have a well-structured and enriching journey.

TAK will also produce a Visit Butaritari promotional video and erecting tour site signages which are strategic moves to enhance the overall visitor experience, showcasing Butaritari’s offerings and guiding visitors to the heart of the island’s culture and beauty. TAK so far has engaged village communities from Kuuma, Keuea, Tanimaiaki, Antakana, Bikaati islet, Ukiangang and Utirake communities to develop Community-based Tourism products including varied Marine Protected Area tours that feature snorkeling to exploring of the coral plantation, clam farm, and experience clam oyster hunting. At the same time visitors get to explore the islets and participate in cultural tour programs, tour WWII sites and participate in agritourism.

In collaboration with the Butaritari Island Council and CBT operators, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati has confirmed that Butaritari will be officially recognized as a tourism-ready island. Government delegation, including tour operators, will be welcomed to experience the diverse array of Community-Based Tourism (CBT) products available. This marks an exciting milestone for Butaritari, highlighting its readiness to offer unique cultural and hospitality experiences to visitors.

TAK promotes new licensing Policy consultation in Fanning Island

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The consultation on the new tourism licensing policy for hotel and tour operators was conducted in Fanning Island on the 21st October 2024 by two Tourism officers from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK). This is part of a nationwide consultation on this licensing policy, particularly to the local government councils including accommodation establishments and tour operations.

The consultation was held with a full council on Fanning informing the local government and tourism operators of a new licensing policy versus the current licensing practice in which the island council currently collects from the hotels and tour operators. TAK therefore stresses that under the new Tourism Regulation, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) will be mandated to collect tourism operation licenses by the beginning of 2025.

The consultation’s outcome was successful, with the Fanning Island Island Council supporting this change; however, the council requested to continue to collect operational licenses until the end of 2024.

This consultation makes Fanning as the 2nd island in the Line & Phoenix islands group to be consulted leaving Teraina Washington Island as the last to be visited and consulted before 2025.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati is responsible for working with our partners to encourage travelers to come to Kiribati and spend time exploring our country.

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