The tourism landscape of Gizo, Western Province has reached a significant milestone with the official opening of the Zaru Hotel as part of its phase one development.
In a ceremony held on Tuesday 24th February was filled with pride and local celebration, the Proprietor’s wife, Judith Kwan—speaking on behalf of her husband, Chief Jacob Kwan—declared the facility open, marking the culmination of a vision aimed at boosting the economy of the Western Province.
The event was attended by the Minister of Tourism and Culture Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas as. The Guest of Honour, Permanent Secretary Barney Sivoro, Tourism Solomons Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dagnal Dereveke, Billy Veo Premier of Western Province provincial ministers, representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and various community and church leaders.
Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Kwan described the opening as a “truly significant and proud moment” for the family and the Gizo community.
She emphasized that the Zaru Hotel project was born from a desire to contribute meaningfully to the growth of tourism and business in the region.
“Our vision is to provide quality accommodation and facilities that reflect both comfort and our local identity,” Mrs. Kwan stated.
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, determination, and belief in local investment.”
The completion of phase one brings a much-needed boost to Gizo’s hospitality sector.
The new development features:
– 16 Guest Bedrooms: Modern accommodations for visitors and tourists.
– Conference Facility: A new venue for corporate and community meetings.
– Commercial Spaces: Two dedicated areas designed for lease to local entrepreneurs, specifically for souvenir shops, convenience stores, or handicraft businesses.
Mrs. Kwan highlighted that these commercial spaces were “intentionally designed to encourage local entrepreneurship” and ensure that the benefits of the tourism industry extend directly to the people of the Western Province.
The journey to the opening was not without its hurdles.
Mrs. Kwan acknowledged that the project required immense patience and resilience, noting that it reflects the challenges many local developments face in the country.
She extended heartfelt gratitude to the Western Provincial Government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the local community, whose support was vital in bringing the project to life.
While Phase One is now operational, the Kwan family views this as only the beginning.
Plans are already in place for future phases that will further expand the hotel’s capacity and services.
“Zaru Hotel is a long-term project,” Mrs. Kwan said.
“Future phases will strengthen Gizo’s position as a key tourism and business hub in the Solomon Islands.” She added.
Following the officials speeches the Tourism Minister Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas declared the hotel open.
The ceremony concluded with a blessing for the facility and the nation, as guests were invited to tour the new premises that now stand as a symbol of local investment and economic hope in the West.
The cost of the project is about $32milion.
The project started in late 2021.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star Gizo
