sustainable tourism – Kaongora Newsletter

Tourism Authority of Kiribati Acknowledges Valuable Contribution of International Volunteers.

December 7, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

As the world celebrate International Volunteers Day this week, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) extends its gratitude to the dedicated remote volunteers from the Australia Volunteers International (AVI) and New Zealand’s Volunteer Services Abroad (VSA) for their invaluable contributions to the organization.

Over the years, TAK has been fortunate to collaborate with AVI and VSA, whose remote volunteers have played a pivotal role in advancing TAK’s mission of promoting sustainable tourism development in Kiribati. The collaboration has enabled the successful implementation of key initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism in Kiribati.

In 2021, TAK partnered with AVI to develop the organization’s Digital Marketing Strategy, a milestone that significantly boosted TAK’s online presence and outreach.

Looking towards the future, in 2023, TAK is excited to be working alongside VSA to develop the ‘Mauri Way’, a Tourism & Hospitality Customer Service Program. This program aims to elevate the hospitality standards in Kiribati, ensuring a positive and memorable experience for visitors. The collaboration reflects the dedication of international volunteers to sharing their expertise and knowledge to uplift the local tourism industry.

During the International Volunteer Day celebration hosted by the New Zealand High Commission and VSA, TAK’s CEO, Petero Manufolau, expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ exceptional support. He stated, “TAK is grateful for the support of volunteers who generously give up their time to impart their knowledge and skills, contributing significantly to strengthening capacity within our organization.” Mr. Manufolau emphasized that, “against limited budgetary constraints, crucial work by TAK could not have been accomplished without the invaluable support from international volunteers.”

TAK recognizes the efforts of all volunteers who have played a crucial role in fostering sustainable tourism development in Kiribati. Their dedication and expertise, creating a positive effect on the local communities and economy. TAK encourages stakeholders to join in acknowledging and appreciating the global community of volunteers whose commitment contributes to positive change around the world.

Kiribati participates in China International Travel Mart 2023.

November 29, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

Kiribati The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) made its presence for the first time at one of the largest China’s International Travel Mart (CITM) held in Kunming, Yunan Province from 17-19, November 2023.

Kiribati was represented by TAK Deputy CEO, Ms. Reeti Onorio. She was amongst the Heads of National Tourism Offices (NTO) from 7 other Pacific Island countries led by the Pacific Tourism Organization, (SPTO). Collectively, they showed the commitment of Pacific nations to work together in strengthening ties with the Chinese travel market.

Through the Pacific pavilion, Ms. Onorio had the opportunity to discuss Kiribati’s unique niche tourism assets and unique cultures with Chinese tour operators and consumers.

CITM is help annually and is the largest travel Mart in China. The event attracts tourism institutions, travel agencies, hotels, airlines, cultural institutions, museums and other culture & tourism-related businesses from China and around the globe. This year’s CITM attracts more than 3,000 companies and more than 1,000 international buyers.

Ms. Onorio shared that this year’s CITM was a learning experience for TAK to understand the Chinese outbound market post COVID-19. She also held discussions with tour operators on Kiribati’s Approved Destination Status for China and the progress TAK making as a destination through its MOU with the China Tourism Academy.

High on the agenda for Kiribati’s approach to the Chinese market was sustainable tourism and the destination’s intent to offer low impact, high value holiday experiences. These include cultural experiences, marine-based tourism and the off the beaten track laid-back lifestyle in the islands and its people.

DCEO Onorio expressed her gratitude to the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), and China’s Ministry of Culture of Tourism its annual commitment to support Kiribati’s participation at CITM.

CITM 2024 will be held in Shanghai, China. Leading up to that, TAK looks forward to further exploring opportunities for travel and tourism investment into our niche tourism sectors.

Kiribati National Tourism Office plans for Sustainable Tourism Growth

October 7, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) office in Tarawa conducted a 2-day validation workshop of their draft 2023-2026 Strategic Plan at Tabon te Keekee Eco Lodge Abatao, North Tarawa from 06-08 October 2023.

Management and staff of the organization were joined by members of the TAK Board of Directors to review and validate its updated strategic plan and priorities. The workshop focused on ensuring that the TAK strategic plan facilitates the development a sustainable tourism industry that benefits the people of Kiribati, while also protecting the nation’s natural and cultural resources.

During the validation workshop, participants discussed the proposed strategic plan priorities and provided feedback on how to ensure that they are aligned with the needs of the tourism industry and the people of Kiribati. The workshop also provided an opportunity to confirm key stakeholders and partners who will be critical to the success of the strategic plan.

TAK CEO, Petero Manufolau said that TAK is committed to developing a sustainable tourism industry that benefits every I-Kiribati and the 2023-2026 strategic plan will provide the organisation with a roadmap to achieving such a goal.

The draft strategic plan validation workshop is part of the final round of review of the organisation’s new strategic plan. The next validation workshop will be conducted with TAK’s Kiribati Island staff in mid-October
The development of TAK’s strategic plan is supported by the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI). TAK envisages that its plan be launched in November 2023 with implementation to begin from January 2024.

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

July 31, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

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.

TAK Participates in DFAT Pacific Aviation Support Program Consultation

July 14, 2023July 13, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

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.

Kiribati presents at 2022 Global Sustainable Tourism Forum

November 11, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

Tourism Authority of Kiribati CEO, Petero Manufolau presented Kiribati’s aspirations for sustainable tourism development at the 2022 Global Sustainable Tourism Forum in Seoul, Republic of Korea on Thursday 10 November 2022.

In addressing the forum on climate action in tourism destinations, Manufolau shared the steps that TAK has undertaken towards sustainable tourism, beginning with the development of the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework that was launched in 2021.

As a destination most vulnerable to the impacts of global warming, the Kiribati tourism sector plays an important role in mitigating the impacts of climate change through responsible and regenerative tourism practices.

He added that “the Kiribati tourism sector is at a very unique stage of industry development and that TAK is working to develop sustainability indicators and a Kiribati Sustainability Policy that will set the guidelines the industry’s development”. He added that “we only have one chance to get this right and government, development partners, civil society and community support will be vital if Kiribati is to realise its full sustainable tourism development potential”.

CEO Manufolau also called out to international sustainable tourism best practice specialists and sustainable tourism development agencies to support the Kiribati tourism sector’s initiative for effective climate action in tourism.

Following his presentation, Manufolau participated in a panel discussion on accelerating the transition to green tourism. Panelists included representatives from the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Greenview Hospitality, Singapore, Jaya House, Cambodia and Rogers Hospitality, Mauritius.

The keynote address for the event was delivered by Ms. Sofia Raquel Gutierres Laza, Deputy Director, United National World Tourism Organisation (UNTWO) with special remarks from Mr. Jorge Laguna-Cells, Head of the One Planet Secretariat, UNEP.

The event was jointly hosted by the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) and the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism, Republic of Korea.

Connectivity vital for tourism in Pacific Small Island States

November 3, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

Republic of Kiribati’s Minister for Tourism, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperative (MTCIC), Honourable Michael Bootii Nauan, highlighted the concerns of Small Island States and Territories regarding air connectivity to SISTs in the region.

He made these comments as a panelist presenting on Improving Air Connectivity for Small Island States at the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leadership Summit, organised by the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) at the Edgewater Resort and Spa in Cook Islands.

Hon Nauan was part of the Ministerial Panel 2 on Enhancing Pacific resilience and competitiveness through sustainable tourism alongside French Polynesia Vice President Honourable Jean-Christophe Bouissou, Cook Islands Associate Minister for Tourism Honourable Tingika Elikana and New Caledonia Tourism Director General Ms. Julie Laronde.

In highlighting his recommendations to the question of ‘How air connectivity to SISTs could be improved, Hon Nauan shared that continued Development partner support to connect SIST with source markets, where the Nauru Airlines Island Hopper Program, supported by DFAT, effectively connects Nauru, Kiribati, RMI, and FSM with Australia on a fortnightly basis.

He added that there is also an opportunity for PRC-aligned countries to attract the Asia market through seasonal or charter services supported by our Chinese counterparts. Development partner support through destination marketing to help support SIST promotional initiatives in the source market will also help improve loading for supporting schedules.

On airline support, Hon Nauan expressed that current Pacific air carriers play an important role in enabling SIST destinations to grow through reduced fare consideration where possible and more flexibility on SIST sector fares to allow for last-minute changes dues to industry conditions in SIST’s.

“If we are talking about sustainable tourism- connectivity on the region, what comes to mind, how we can connect those dots and how to maintain this. Flights to these SISTs are very high, and many tourism refrains from traveling across,” Hon Nauan mentioned.

The Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leadership Summit was held on Wednesday 02 November, ahead of the Pacific Council of Tourism Ministers meeting on Thursday 03 November 2022.

Kiribati signs Pacific Leader’s Sustainable Tourism Commitment

October 7, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

Kiribati’s Minister for Tourism, Commerce, Industry and Cooperative (MTCIC), Honourable Bootii Nauan affirmed his country’s obligation to sustainable tourism development when he signed the Pacific Leaders Sustainable Tourism Commitment in Tarawa this morning.

This regional commitment by the Pacific Council of Tourism Ministers commits to elevate sustainable tourism as a regional priority for environmental, socio-cultural and economic development. The Council further commits to make tourism in the Pacific a force for good by adopting the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework to put the tourism sector and communities on a path to sustainable recovery by 2030.

In signing this commitment, Hon. Nauan said that “this is a step forward in the right direction for us as we meticulously work to map Kiribati’s tourism development journey based on the core values of resilience and sustainability”. He added that Kiribati is a pristine destination that is deeply rooted in rich cultural values and must ensure that these are preserved through tourism.

Kiribati’s commitment to sustainable tourism development is framed in the country’s Sustainable Tourism Development Policy Framework developed in 2021. The framework provides the platform for the development of sustainability indicators for the destination in 2022 and its National Sustainable Tourism Policy scheduled for early 2023.

Hon, Nauan will lead his delegation later this month to formally submit its commitment at the Council of Tourism Ministers meeting and Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leadership Summit in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.

Kiribati welcomes first commercial flight since border lockdown

August 5, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

Tarawa, Kiribati was in celebration mode as the island converged at Bonriki International Airport on Thursday 04 August 2022 to welcome the country’s first commercial flight, 2 ½ years since COVID-19 border lockdown.

Fiji Airways’ FJ231 landed at Bonriki International Airport with more than one hundred passengers at 11am and were welcomed by the Ngaon Nareau choir whose chants and singing echoed welcoming sounds of the islands throughout the terminal building.

Also present to celebrate the occasion was Minister of Tourism, Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives (MTCIC), Honourable Booti Nauan. In an interview, Honourable Nauan said that he hoped visitors will enjoy their Kiribati experience. He also extended an invitation to them saying “take the time to learn about who we are as a people and the values that we hold dear to our hearts. Immerse yourself in our tropical islands and turquoise lagoons and most importantly, remember to make the most of your time here in Kiribati”.

At the arrival’s concourse, passengers were greeted by reigning Miss Kiribati, Paepae Kilei and staff of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) who garlanded travellers and returning resident’s with katokabau, the traditional Kiribati floral head piece presented to special guests.

Entertainment by the Tekeang ni Marawa dance group at the arrivals area filled the terminal building with more excitement as some passengers could not resist the invitation to join the dancers as they made their way to their eagerly awaiting hosts and families. For many of these travellers, its was a happy and emotional reunion after having being separated from their families for a very long time.

The first commercial flight to Tarawa yesterday is a significant milestone achievement and represents the Government of Kiribati’s efforts to manage COVID-19 and to bring back some normalcy to its tourism industry.

Discussions on the resumption of flights into Kiribati’s second international airport and fly-fishing mecca, Kiritimati (Christmas Island) this year is continuing and the TAK will share reopening details once information is available.

International travel to Kiribati to begin 01 August 2022

June 18, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

The Government of Kiribati, through the Office of Te Beretitenti today announced that all international travel to and from Kiribati will return to normal on the 1st of August, 2022.

This official announcement also confirmed that the Government of Kiribati has reduced the compulsory in-country quarantine days for all travelers from seven (7) to three (3) days.

The announcement follows the Government of Kiribati’s confirmation that the country’s COVID-19 Alert Level has been reduced from 3b to 3c and it has relaxed the SOP guidelines currently being practiced as part of Kiribati’s preventive measures against COVID-19.

The New Public Health Order was effective from Friday 17th of June, 2022 and will remain for two weeks as the curfew hours have ceased for all islands that are infected by COVID-19.

Furthermore, inter-island travel will still be subject to the availability of quarantine centres on islands that are COVID-19 free.

Despite the relaxation of some of the SOP guidelines, the Government appeals to the general public to continue practicing health safety measures such as wearing masks in public and the continuation of handwashing to help stop the spread of the virus. The public is encouraged to visit clinics to receive vaccination and booster, 5 months after receiving second dose.

As of this week, the administration of the Pfizer vaccine for youths between the age of 12 and 17 years has commenced in South Tarawa and Betio. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure all their children are fully vaccinated to ensure the safety and well-being of their children and the general public.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati will share the full details of Kiribati’s August border reopening conditions in the coming days.

Tourism Authority Kiribati