Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
01/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/16/2026 00:36
TOURISM IN LAU MUST BE COMMUNITY-LED: DPM GAVOKA
Tubou, Lakeba, Lau - The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, continues to emphasise that the future of tourism in the Lau Group must be shaped and led by its people. His remarks came as the Lau Tourism Scoping Mission continued its programme with a visit to the chiefly village of Tubou on Lakeba Island.
DPM Gavoka reiterated that the mission's purpose is to experience firsthand the people, culture, and natural heritage of Lau, ensuring that future tourism initiatives safeguard traditions, generate livelihoods, and empower communities to remain and prosper in their islands.
During the visit, the delegation met with the Lakeba Tourism Committee, who outlined tourism's potential as a catalyst for cultural preservation, economic growth, and reduced urban migration-aligning with priorities championed by the International Organization for Migration.
As part of reviewing enabling infrastructure, the team also visited Lakeba Airport, where a preliminary assessment was conducted to consider expanding the runway to accommodate an ATR-42 aircraft, with the aim of improving access and connectivity.
To enhance essential services and strengthen communications, two Starlink satellite connectivity packages were donated and installed at the Lau Provincial Council Office and the Lakeba Health Centre.
The mission was joined by the UNDP Pacific Office Head of Mission, Ms. Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel, who highlighted the importance of ensuring that all tourism development aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals-particularly sustainability, inclusion, and local ownership.
Across engagements, one message was clear: tourism in Lau will only thrive if it reflects the aspirations of its people. Government and development partners affirmed their commitment to supporting, rather than directing, community-driven tourism priorities.
The Lakeba programme concluded with visits to key historical and cultural sites before the delegation departed for Cicia Island.
Today, 16 January, the scoping mission continues on Cicia, and will proceed to Vanuabalavu on Saturday.
DPM Gavoka reiterated that the mission's purpose is to experience firsthand the people, culture, and natural heritage of Lau, ensuring that future tourism initiatives safeguard traditions, generate livelihoods, and empower communities to remain and prosper in their islands.
During the visit, the delegation met with the Lakeba Tourism Committee, who outlined tourism's potential as a catalyst for cultural preservation, economic growth, and reduced urban migration-aligning with priorities championed by the International Organization for Migration.
As part of reviewing enabling infrastructure, the team also visited Lakeba Airport, where a preliminary assessment was conducted to consider expanding the runway to accommodate an ATR-42 aircraft, with the aim of improving access and connectivity.
To enhance essential services and strengthen communications, two Starlink satellite connectivity packages were donated and installed at the Lau Provincial Council Office and the Lakeba Health Centre.
The mission was joined by the UNDP Pacific Office Head of Mission, Ms. Munkhtuya (Tuya) Altangerel, who highlighted the importance of ensuring that all tourism development aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals-particularly sustainability, inclusion, and local ownership.
Across engagements, one message was clear: tourism in Lau will only thrive if it reflects the aspirations of its people. Government and development partners affirmed their commitment to supporting, rather than directing, community-driven tourism priorities.
The Lakeba programme concluded with visits to key historical and cultural sites before the delegation departed for Cicia Island.
Today, 16 January, the scoping mission continues on Cicia, and will proceed to Vanuabalavu on Saturday.
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