The Honourable Viliame Gavoka, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, has concluded a comprehensive tour of the Yasawa Islands to assess the Coalition Government's integrated approach to sustainable tourism development, ensuring all initiatives align with both the Fiji National Sustainable Tourism Framework and the Government's National Development Plan.
The visit highlighted key aviation infrastructure projects which favours an ATR72-capable aerodrome development near Teci Village. This strategic project is being carefully evaluated through the dual lens of economic development and environmental sustainability and would boost the economic activity of the furthermost points of the Yasawas.
Minister Gavoka emphasized this alignment: "Every aspect of our Yasawa development strategy - from infrastructure to community programs - is designed to advance the objectives outlined in both our Sustainable Tourism Framework and the National Development Plan. This ensures we maintain consistency with Fiji's long-term vision for responsible growth.
The tour included visits to Blue Lagoon Resort, Turtle Island Resort, Barefoot Manta and Barefoot Kuata Resort's. The marine conservation program at Barefoot Manta is truly breathtaking. These field observations provided valuable insights into how policy objectives translate to on-the-ground environmental and community benefits.
Hon Gavoka added, “We were blown away by the hospitality of the people of Teci, Nacula, Malevu and Namara. The fresh food from the sea was a testament to the vast potential of island cuisine in the untouched regions of Fiji.”
The Ministry is concurrently exploring a new certification program for homestay operators that will operationalize the standards set forth in the National Sustainable Tourism Framework, creating measurable benchmarks for cultural preservation and eco-friendly operations at the community level.
"The Yasawa initiatives exemplify our whole-of-government approach to sustainable development," Minister Gavoka noted. "By anchoring our work in these established national frameworks, we ensure tourism growth delivers lasting benefits while protecting what makes Fiji special."
The Coalition Government remains committed to this policy-aligned approach as it moves forward with the Yasawa projects. Further announcements will follow completion of the current assessment phases and certification program.