Tourism Authority Kiribati

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TAK participates in National Cultural and Senior Citizen Day

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) participated in the National Cultural and Senior Citizen Day celebrated on 11th July 2023 at the Sports Complex, Betio, South Tarawa.

The event was part of the Kiribati independence celebration organized by the Cultural and Museum Division (CMD) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) with the theme ‘Good Governance through sustaining our I-Kiribati Cultural Heritage’.

Our cultural heritage provides sense of unity and belonging within a group and allow us to better understand previous generations and the history of where we come from. Understanding our cultural heritage gives us a sense of personal identity.

A drama on celebrating womanhood was performed by committee members of the National Cultural Day showcasing the importance and significance of celebrating womanhood in Kiribati and why we need to preserve this part of Kiribati cultural heritage.

The event also included local stakeholders and relevant ministries sharing and showcasing their skills through traditional arts and crafts TAK used the opportunity to raise awareness on its services.

Attending the event was His Excellency President Taneti Maamau, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Government officials, and community. The program concluded with refreshment and booth inspection.

Kiritimati Island hosts Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, & Sanitation Competition

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Kiritimati Island, also known as Christmas Island, witnessed a spectacular showcase of community spirit and environmental stewardship as it hosted the inaugural Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition. This event was organized by the Ministry of Environment, Lands & Agriculture Development (MELAD) through the Agriculture & Livestock Division, and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) played a pivotal role as part of the organizing committee. The competition took place in conjunction with the grand celebrations of the 44th National Day, signifying the island’s commitment to becoming the “New Paradise.”

The primary objective of the competition was to foster a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Kiritimati Island while advancing its aspiration of becoming a true “New Paradise” for its residents and visitors alike. The organizing committee, comprised of the Wildlife Conservation Unit, the Ministry of Line & Phoenix Islands Development, and the EU-funded Water & Sanitation project, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this community-driven initiative.

Participants from 19 households across three villages – Banana, Tabakeauea, and Ronton – participated in the competition, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on their local environment. The competition witnessed the participation of various individuals and groups, each showcasing their innovative approaches to cleanliness, beautification, gardening, and sanitation.

The competition was supported by generous donations from the government-owned petroleum company, Kiribati Oil Limited (KOIL), and four privately-owned hotels in Kiritimati, namely Little Flower Guesthouse, Sunset Horizon Fishing Lodge, Lagoon View Resort, and Tekabaia Lodge. The gracious contributions of Mum’s Kitchen and the 44th National Day mother-committee also played a significant role in making the event a success.

The Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition served as a testament to the unity and dedication of the Kiritimati Island community in preserving its natural beauty and promoting a clean and healthy environment. TAK extends its appreciation to all the participants, donors, and organizing committee members for their unwavering support and commitment to the cause.

As the island continues to progress towards its environmental and developmental goals, TAK is dedicated to supporting and promoting similar initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the local community and the preservation of Kiritimati Island’s charm.

Clean Oceans and Beaches Essential for World Class Surfing

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The pristine white sandy beaches of Kiritimati Island will hold a special place in the hearts of surfers as their cherished playground if they are care for. This was emphasized by Mr. Keone Downing, Pro-Surfer and Outbound Exchange Fellow from the East West Center when delivering training for the Island’s youths his one-week stay in Kiritimati Islands.

In addition to imparting surfing skills to the young surf enthusiasts, Mr. Downing encouraged them to adopt a noble habit – beach cleaning. His inspiring words, “Pick one trash before you surf and pick another one when you’re done surfing,” resonated deeply with the young surfers. The message was simple yet impactful – if each surfer commits to this practice, their cherished playground, the ocean, will always remain clean and free from debris washed down from the beaches.

Although Mr. Downing’s stay concluded on the 19th of July, the local surfers conducted their own beach clean-up activity on Thursday, 27th July, attracting new participants to join in the cause.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) supports and recognizes these proactive cleaning initiatives, particularly by the young people. In this spirit of environmental stewardship, they were also invited to participate in the Ronton beach clean-up that was held on Saturday, 29th July 2023.

As the next generation of surfers emerges on Kiritimati Island, their dedication to beach cleaning paves the way for a brighter, cleaner future, where both the ocean and the shore remain pristine for the enjoyment of locals and travellers alike.

TAK Participates in DFAT Pacific Aviation Support Program Consultation

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK), represented by CEO, Petero Manufolau participated in the Pacific Aviation Support Program Consultation, held at the Australian High Commission in Tarawa on Friday, 7 July 2023.

The consultation, facilitated by Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Anthony Liew brought together key stakeholders from the Kiribati aviation, infrastructure, finance and tourism sectors to address the challenges and opportunities faced by Kiribati’s aviation industry. TAK seized this opportunity to voice the tourism sector’s long-term goals and discuss how strategic aviation development can play a crucial role in unlocking Kiribati’s tourism potential.

Kiribati, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, has the potential to become a sought after tourism destination. However, the country’s remote geographical location and limited aviation infrastructure pose significant hurdles to its tourism growth. The Pacific Aviation Support Program Consultation served as a platform for TAK to highlight the importance of affordable, reliable, and safe air travel for attracting international travellers and promoting sustainable tourism development.

During the consultation, TAK emphasized the need for enhanced aviation infrastructure in Kiribati, such as upgraded airports, enhancement of Pacific regional airline partnerships that benefit travellers, Kiribati fare subsidy considerations and capacity development within the aviation sector . These improvements will not only facilitate smoother travel experiences for tourists but also strengthen Kiribati’s ability to effectively market and promote its unique offerings on a global scale.

TAK is committed to working closely with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT) and other stakeholders to ensure that the aspirations of the tourism sector are heard and adequately addressed. The authority believes that by fostering a collaborative and integrated approach to aviation development, Kiribati can realize its tourism potential while preserving its cultural heritage and natural environment.

As TAK moves forward, it will continue to advocate for sustainable aviation and tourism practices, seeking opportunities for capacity development, knowledge sharing, and investment in the tourism industry. The authority remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment that attracts visitors, empowers local communities, and contributes to the socio-economic growth of Kiribati.

Sustainable Fisheries through Marine Protected Area Tours in Butaritari

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In a groundbreaking effort to support sustainable fisheries and community development, the Butaritari community is launching the Nei Tengarengare project—a Community-Based Tourism (CBT) initiative centered around Marine Protected Area (MPA) tours. This project, developed in collaboration with Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK), aims to foster environmental conservation, empower local communities, and promote responsible tourism practices.

The Nei Tengarengare project stems from the outcomes of the Coastal Fisheries Summit held in May 2023, where TAK was invited to join the Community-Based Fisheries Management (CBFM), locally known as Nei Tengarengare. Nei Tengarengare is a division of the Coastal Fisheries Division under the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFRD), and it works closely with communities in Butaritari to ensure sustainable fisheries practices.

As part of the project’s initial steps, TAK will collaborate with MPA communities in Butaritari to provide training on MPA tour package development, itinerary planning, and package costing. Ms. Kiarake Karuaki, the Tourism Officer for Product Development, conducted training sessions in three MPA communities—Kuuma village (north and south), Tanimaiaki village, and Bikaati islet—in preparation for the upcoming national stakeholder meeting scheduled for early August in Butaritari.

During the consultation workshops, Ms. Kiarake shared insights on various topics including the foundations of tourism, Kiribati niche tourism products, Butaritari niche tourism products, and different types of travellers or visitors. This knowledge exchange aimed to enhance the communities’ understanding of tourism in general, enabling them to develop tailored experiences that align with visitor preferences.

The three MPA communities in Butaritari—Kuuma village (north and south), Tanimaiaki village, and Bikaati islet—will serve as pioneers, sharing their MPA through a tour program with representatives from other MPA participants across the Gilbert Islands. The participating islands include Makin, Marakei, Abaiang, Tarawa, Maiana, Kuria, Aranuka, Abemama, Nonouti, Tab North and Tab South, Onotoa, Beru, and Nikunau. The aim is to facilitate knowledge sharing and inspire other island groups to replicate successful practices in their respective regions, ensuring the sustainability of their established Marine Protected Areas.

“The Nei Tengarengare project is a remarkable example of collaboration between the tourism sector and local communities for sustainable development,” said Petero Manufolau, CEO of TAK. “By harnessing the potential of Marine Protected Area tours, we can protect our precious marine ecosystems, empower communities, and create authentic experiences for visitors. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to its positive impact on Butaritari and beyond.”

The Nei Tengarengare project marks an important step towards promoting responsible and community-driven tourism in Butaritari. By integrating conservation efforts, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods, this initiative paves the way for a brighter, more resilient future for both the environment and the local communities.

Tarawa Accommodations Awarded 2023 Mauri Mark Rating

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is pleased to announce that most North & South Tarawa Accommodation providers have been awarded Mauri Mark rating following assessments conducted in April and May 2023.

The Mauri Mark rating is a significant indicator of accommodation standards, serving as a trusted reference for travelers when making their booking decisions. It provides valuable insights into the quality and range of services offered, ensuring guests have a clear understanding of what to expect during their stay.

All North and South Tarawa accommodation providers underwent comprehensive evaluation across various criteria to secure their Mauri Mark Coconut rating. The assessment process covered crucial aspects such as Business Operations, Room Facilities, Fire Safety, Health and Hygiene, Support Services, and Sustainability. These parameters were examined to ensure that each rated accommodation provider meets or exceeds industry standards in each category.

The achievement of the Mauri Mark rating for most North and South Tarawa accommodation reflects Kiribati’s dedication to providing an exceptional guest experience albeit their slow recovery post COVID-19.

TAK is confident that amidst these challenging recovery phase, accommodation provider’s adherence to the standards of business operations, room facilities, fire safety measures, health, and hygiene protocols, support services, and commitment to sustainability is an indication of their commitment to raising visitor experience in Kiribati.

TAK will conduct the Mauri Mark Assessment in Kiritimati and the outer islands of the Gilber and Line Islands in the coming months.

TAK Officer Participates in USA Professional Fellows Program

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Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) Assistant Officer, Research & Statistics, Mr Garstang Bitauea has returned from USA after attending the Professional Fellows Program Oceania (PFP Oceania) at Arizona State from May 1-31 and Professional Fellows Congress June 5-9 at Washington DC. Mr Bitauea was amongst participants lows from Fiji, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Samoa, and FSM.

The program is a two-way, global exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, as well as build lasting, sustainable partnerships between mid-level emerging leaders from the Pacific Islands and the United States.

The PFP Oceania Program ran from May 3-31 where, during which time, Mr Bitauea was placed at the Arizona State University for School of Communities Resources and Development to learn about Sustainable Tourism initiatives from Dr. Christine Buzinde. The TAK assistant officer also had the opportunity to connect with Research Manager from Research Division of Arizona Office of Tourism and CEO of Tourism Tempe to learn about Tourism Industry in Arizona State.

The fellowship concluded with a Professional Fellows Congress in Washington DC from 5-9 June. The Congress hosted fellows from more than 40 countries who engaged to enhance their network internationally with each other, reflect on U.S exchange fellowship and discusses common challenges and opportunities for international collaboration.

The Professional Fellows Program Oceania (PFP Oceania) was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ and organized by Cultural Vistas a non-profit organization based in Washington DC. This fellowship program will be continuing to attract more young leaders from the Pacific Islands every year.

TAK joins Kiribati World Tuna Day Celebration

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) joined the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) as they celebrated World Tuna Day. Observed on 02 May each year, the Kiribati celebration was moved to 26 May to coincide with the conclusion of the Kiribati Coastal Fisheries Summit that concluded on the 25 May 2023 in Bairiki, South Tarawa.

With the theme, Sustainable Tuna; Our Dream, Our Future, the event began with a float procession that included MFMRD, Kiribati Fishing Limited (KFL) and the Central Pacific Producers Limited (CPPL). Each creatively highlighted the valuable relationship between healthy oceans and sustainable tuna management across the vast waters of Kiribati.

In his keynote address, Minister for Fisheries & Marine Resource Development, Honourable Ribanataake Tiwau said the “purpose of the event is to ensure that this shared resource, which are highly migratory and traverses the entire Pacific Ocean, are well managed for the benefit of the current and future generations”.

TAK acknowledges that the tourism sector can draw inspiration from the MFMRD’s work in sustainable tuna fishing practices and apply them to other aspects of sustainable & regenerative tourism development throughout the islands, particularly in the recreational fishing and community-based-tourism markets.

The event concluded with the Tuna Bites culinary competition that featured some of the best tuna dishes.

Culture core to the Kiribati Visitor Experience

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Goal 2 of the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework recognises that tourism must preserve cultural and historical heritage. This commitment reflects the Kiribati tourism sector’s obligation to guaranteeing authentic visitor experiences. It also an acknowledgement of the value travellers place on Kiribati’s unique culture and history as captured in the 2019 Kiribati International Visitor Survey (IVS).

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) commends the work of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) through its Culture & Museum Division (CMD) to preserve, protect and promote Kiribati’s culture and heritage.

In its role as the advocate for Kiribati cultural preservation, the CMD recently conducted a 1-week training program for 25 youths in South Tarawa. Delivered by community cultural trainers at the CMD Maneaba, the program included traditional food preservation, local arts and craft, toddy cutting and Bwabwai farm cultivation.

TAK is encouraged that the sharing of traditional skills and knowledge is reinforced at a community youth level and when practiced, will offer international visitors an experience that is unique to Kiribati alone.

The preservation and showcasing of Kiribati’s cultures and traditions through tourism will remain a priority for TAK and work is currently underway to establish it as a sustainable tourism indicator for the destination.

TAK Hosts Strategic Plan Consultation Workshop

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) hosted a one-day stakeholder consultation workshop for the development of the organisation’s 2023 – 2025 Strategic Plan on Thursday 13 April 2023 at the Marine Training Centre (MTC) in Betio, South Tarawa.

Attended by representatives from Government, State Owned Enterprises (SOE), Tourism Operators and Non-Government Organisations (NGO), the workshop presented TAK the opportunity to share its new set of draft strategic priorities with its stakeholder partners.

The workshop also allowed for valuable input from stakeholders on how TAK can better serve the industry and to be better equipped to support the Government of Kiribati’s KV20 aspirations for increased economic contribution through tourism.

Participants were also introduced to the first draft of the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Indicators; a set of tools that will support TAK to measure the destination’s sustainable tourism goals.

TAK’s 2023-2025 Strategic Plan development is supported through technical support from the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI). This project is scheduled to be completed with the strategic plan launch in July 2023.