By Celestine Chacon | November 10, 2024
The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) continues to play a pivotal role in empowering villages to develop and promote their unique tourism offerings, enhancing sustainable economic growth in remote communities.
As part of Tourism Awareness Month 2024, themed “A People-Centered Tourism Product: Elevating our Profile,” the GTA has released several videos showcasing the progress made by villages through its support.
One notable example is Toka, a village in the North Rupununi, Region Nine, which recently launched its tourism product with the help of GTA initiatives.
The village’s Toshao, Micah Davis, emphasized how eco-tourism allows communities to share their natural resources and cultural heritage with visitors.
Davis, along with representatives from other communities, completed a week-long Ecolodge Development Workshop facilitated by Professor Hitesh Mehta, a globally recognized expert in ecotourism.
This training focused on developing skills to create eco-friendly accommodations and enhance the overall tourism experience.
Another participant, Roy Chambers from Paruima Village in Region Seven, highlighted the GTA’s contributions to his community, including training for tour guides and porters and support for ecolodge preparations.
He noted how these initiatives have increased awareness of the natural resources available in their region.
Through such efforts, the GTA is ensuring that tourism growth extends to even the most remote areas, fostering inclusive development and increasing economic opportunities for indigenous communities.
Tourism Awareness Month, launched on November 2, continues to celebrate the industry’s achievements and underscores its potential to uplift communities across Guyana.