Raiders Hotel opens in Tulagi to boost tourism development
By George Maelagi
Solomon Star Online
The newly upgraded Raiders Hotel was officially opened on Friday in Tulagi, marking a significant milestone for tourism development in Central Province.
The opening ceremony brought together national leaders, provincial government officials, tourism stakeholders and members of the local community who gathered to witness the reopening of the facility.
Speaking during the ceremony, Central Province Premier Kenneth Sagupari described the development as an important step toward strengthening tourism in the province.
He said Central Province has enormous tourism potential and the provincial government is committed to working with the national government and private sector to develop the industry.
“Our vision for tourism in Central Province is clear to ensure that everyone benefits from the tourism growth industry,” he said.
Mr Sagupari emphasized the importance of community led initiatives, empowering local entrepreneurs and protecting the environment while developing tourism across the province.
He added that projects like Raiders Hotel demonstrate what can be achieved through partnership and shared vision for development.
Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination Trevor Manemahaga who also witnessed the occasion said the investment represents strong confidence in the tourism potential of the Solomon Islands.
“This event represents confidence in our country, confidence in our tourism potential and confidence in the future of economic development for our people,” he said.
Mr Manemahaga said tourism investments such as Raiders Hotel can create employment opportunities, support local businesses and stimulate economic activities across the islands.
He also highlighted the role of the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination in ensuring government development programs align with national priorities and deliver tangible outcomes for the country.
He congratulated the investors and owners of the hotel for their vision and commitment in investing in the tourism sector.
Minister for Culture and Tourism Choylyn Yim Douglas also welcomed the development, saying the project forms part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen tourism infrastructure across the country.
She explained that the ministry has been supporting tourism operators through a government program aimed at upgrading tourism facilities so they can become market-ready and compete in the growing tourism market.
“The opening of Raiders Hotel marks the completion of a strategic initiative under the ministry’s tourism support program,” she said.
According to the minister, the government has supported several tourism operators around the country to improve their accommodation facilities, tour services and other tourism-related businesses.
She said developments like Raiders Hotel are important because they strengthen tourism products in the provinces and provide better experiences for visitors outside Honiara.
Mrs Douglas also highlighted the importance of joint venture investments between local and foreign investors, saying such partnerships combine international expertise, capital and marketing networks with local ownership and knowledge.
She added that Raiders Hotel has plans to further enhance its services, including the establishment of a dive shop and additional facilities such as a swimming pool, jetty and spa to improve visitor experiences.
The minister also encouraged tourism operators, transport providers and communities in Central Province to work together to develop tour packages and attractions that will encourage visitors to stay longer and explore the islands.
The reopening of Raiders Hotel is expected to strengthen tourism opportunities in Tulagi and surrounding islands, while creating employment and economic opportunities for local communities.
Stakeholders say the development highlights the growing role of tourism as a key driver of economic growth for Central Province and the Solomon Islands.
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