In support of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector, the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority and the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture officially launched the Tourism Business Incubation Center on September 27th in Port Moresby.
Key figures, including the Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo, National Cultural Commission CEO Steven Enomb Kilanda, and NCDC Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, were in attendance.
Hon. Namah emphasized the vital role of small businesses in the nation's economic development in his keynote address, as he expressed gratitude to participants for their contributions to the country’s progress.
As the nation approaches its 50th independence anniversary, Hon. Namah reflected on the need for economic independence, acknowledging the political foundation laid by the country’s founding fathers.
“It is time to fully realize our economic potential,” he stated.
The Minister acknowledged the proactive efforts of the Governor of the nation’s capital, highlighting Hon. Parkop’s commitment to inclusive participation and the promotion of tourism, arts, and culture.
He recalled the Governor's enthusiastic engagement upon Hon. Namah’s appointment, particularly concerning the well-known Kokoda Trail.
Hon. Namah also praised the leadership of Uvovo at TPA and Kilanda on the development of the first draft policy for arts and culture, and expressed enthusiasm for ongoing discussions around tourism policy.
“Tourism, art, and culture are inclusive industries,” the minister asserted. “They provide pathways for wealth creation and empower our communities.”
He called for government support to enable local initiatives, noting that even small actions can lead to significant change. The Minister also proposed a new co-location strategy for key agencies involved in tourism and cultural promotion, aiming to streamline operations and enhance service delivery.
He underscored the need for regulatory frameworks to protect PNG's cultural heritage, advocating for the patenting of local designs and products to ensure they are authentically represented.
Hon. Namah stressed the importance of marketing PNG’s tourism internationally and the need for increased government investment in the sector.
“If we want to connect PNG, we must also prioritize tourism alongside agriculture, forestry, and fisheries,” he concluded.
The Minister's vision is to see this initiative expand across all 22 provinces, empowering local communities and enhancing the tourism landscape in Papua New Guinea.
The center aims to provide essential training, registration, and support for local artisans, tour operators, and other small stakeholders in the tourism industry.
The TPA will provide necessary assistance to support small businesses to grow.
Governor Parkop congratulated the Minister and the National Cultural Commission on their efforts. He emphasized the potential of small stakeholders in the tourism industry, including carvers and crafters.
"This incubation center will help many people in the city, especially those working independently," Parkop said.
Hon Parkop also commended the collaborative spirit among stakeholders, saying, "We will call for partnerships to ensure the success of this center," adding that this initiative is just the beginning of a larger journey to empower the local tourism sector.
For further information about the Tourism Business Incubation Center and upcoming programs, please contact the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority.
