Gastronomy tourism-a big opportunity for rural people in Solomon Islands

By Mary Idu Burumaea

Five local farmers including Representatives of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism attended a 3-day Gastronomy Tourism Workshop, held at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, Fiji.

Farmers, tourism operators, and organisations from 7 Pacific countries came together to learn and share ideas during the workshop.

Solomon Islands participant and representative of Gwaunafiu Organic Farmer school Mr. Lesley Sanga, stated that unemployed youths should go back and start something from their homes.

He said the workshop really helps him understand how to integrate Tourism and Agriculture within the rural areas.

“To be honest, “gastronomy” was a new word for me. But now I understand—it’s all about local food, culture, farming, and tourism working together,” Sanga said.

He said during his Tour to some farms in Nadi, what he saw was an eye opener for him.

“Let’s encourage our young people to go back to our islands, start small plants, raise animals, cook local food, and share our culture. That’s how we can create our own jobs.”

“We just need to connect to the right networks and start something from our homes, while the opportunity is there we just need to act,” he added.

Sanga further stated that the knowledge which he gained from the workshop will be implemented and put into training to train other local farmers in Malaita province.

SIBC News understands that such training will help our Local Farmers to integrate Tourism and Agriculture, and for Tourists to see, feel, taste, and experience the real local life.

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