The people of Lokea Village in East Kerema are preparing for the launch of their first surf club and eco-tourism lodge in Gulf Province.
Chairman of the Iokea Surf Club and Eco Lodge Project, William M Hasu, said the community is proud to reach this important milestone.
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A tentative date for the launch has not been set yet.
“This is a historic moment for our people as we take the first step toward building a sustainable tourism future for Iokea and the wider Gulf Province,” he told PNG SUN.
The project, he said, which is initiated to promote sustainable community development through tourism in the corridors of Sepoe, Iokea, Miaru, and Lese villages, will mark the beginning of transformation and marketing of the wider Gulf Province as a tourist destination after 50 years of independence in Papua New Guinea.
Mr. Hasu emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving the initiative forward.
“We are very keen to partner with our Provincial Government and important stakeholders at the national level to inspire the growth of tourism in our beautiful province,” he said.
The launch of this milestone project in Gulf, he said, is designed to inspire people in the province to tap into and invest in eco-tourism, which is sustainable for communities, the province, and the country in the future.
“We want our people to see tourism not just as an idea, but as a real opportunity for income, development, and long-term sustainability,” Mr. Hasu added.
The project will be launched by provincial leaders, including Governor Sir Chris Haiveta, Hon. Thomas Opa (Minister for Finance), and Hon. Soroe Eoe (Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs), along with members of the Provincial Executive Council and invited guests from PNG Surfing Incorporated Ltd, including President and Founder Mr. Andrew Abel, as well as members of the media.
During the launch, plans will be unveiled to build 10 eco-friendly, self-contained accommodation units to cater for local and international tourists, researchers, and residents from the nation’s capital city who wish to take a break from the busy city life.
Mr. Hasu said the development will create opportunities for local employment and small business growth.
“This project is about empowering our people, creating jobs, and showcasing the natural beauty of our land to the world,” he said.
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Construction work will officially commence after the launch program, which will coincide with the Gulf Provincial Executive Council meeting in Iokea, Gulf Province.