How Solomon Islands’ Tourism Boom is Creating Jobs and Transforming Local Communities – Here’s What You Need to Know!

Published on February 6, 2026

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The tourism industry is on track to become a significant driver of employment and economic growth in the Solomon Islands, according to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. In his remarks at a press conference held on 6 February 2026, Manele highlighted how the sector is poised to play a pivotal role in generating new jobs, supporting small businesses, and improving the livelihoods of local communities.

The comments were made following the successful opening of the upgraded Parangiju Mountain Lodge in Central Guadalcanal on 16 January 2026. The project, which received funding through the Government’s Budget Support Programme, is part of a broader national effort to enhance tourism and support the local economy. The Prime Minister emphasized that such initiatives demonstrate the ongoing collaboration between the local operators, communities, and the government to foster the growth of the tourism sector.

Government Support Driving Tourism Development

In his address, Prime Minister Manele pointed out that the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) has been instrumental in backing tourism development through strategic investments. The Parangiju Mountain Lodge received a government contribution of SBD$2 million, with the lodge itself contributing an additional SBD$400,000. This partnership has helped expand the lodge’s facilities, which now include three new bungalows and a newly added conference room.

The upgrades at Parangiju Mountain Lodge, located in the heart of Central Guadalcanal’s tropical rainforest, are just the beginning of a larger push to improve tourism infrastructure. Similar enhancements are expected soon at the Raiders Hotel and the Pacific Crown Hotel on Double Island in Central Province. These upgrades are set to provide visitors with a wider range of services and accommodation options, driving both tourism growth and local economic development.

Manele stressed the importance of initiatives like these, noting that they allow local businesses to expand their capacity, improve their offerings, and play a more active role in the sector. With these upgrades, businesses will be able to offer a more diversified range of services, enhancing the visitor experience and boosting tourism revenue.

Impact on Local Communities and Employment

One of the central themes in the Prime Minister’s remarks was the positive impact of the tourism sector on local communities. With Parangiju Mountain Lodge offering guided tours to the Tenaru Falls, an hour’s walk from the lodge, local guides and service providers are benefiting directly from the increased number of visitors. The tourism sector is becoming a major employer, not just in the hospitality industry but also in ancillary sectors like transportation, local crafts, and food services.

Furthermore, Manele highlighted that tourism supports small businesses, which in turn helps create long-term economic sustainability. By integrating local businesses into the tourism supply chain, the government ensures that the benefits of tourism development are felt across various sectors of the economy. This job creation is expected to continue as more projects are rolled out in the coming years, with a particular focus on sustainable eco-tourism.

The Role of Eco-Tourism in Sustainable Development

The Parangiju Mountain Lodge is a prime example of how eco-tourism can contribute to the preservation of natural resources while providing economic benefits. As a family-owned lodge, Parangiju has long been a leader in responsible tourism, offering an authentic and sustainable travel experience for visitors. By focusing on eco-friendly practices and promoting local culture, the lodge not only attracts tourists but also plays a role in the broader environmental conservation efforts in the Solomon Islands.

The growth of eco-tourism aligns with the government’s broader goals of sustainable development. By fostering eco-friendly travel experiences, the Solomon Islands aims to attract environmentally conscious tourists while preserving its unique landscapes for future generations. The continued expansion of eco-tourism opportunities will be vital in maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation.

Looking Ahead: Future Growth in the Tourism Sector

Prime Minister Manele is optimistic about the future of tourism in the Solomon Islands. With several high-profile projects underway and a growing focus on sustainable tourism, the sector is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory. The government’s proactive approach, coupled with ongoing investments in infrastructure and tourism training programs, ensures that the industry will continue to generate employment and local revenue.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is focused on further strengthening partnerships between the government, local operators, and the private sector to unlock more tourism potential. New developments in the tourism industry, such as more upgraded hotels, new tourism experiences, and targeted marketing efforts, will further solidify the Solomon Islands as a top travel destination in the region.

As the Solomon Islands continues to attract more visitors, particularly from key markets like Australia, it is clear that tourism will play a crucial role in the country’s economic diversification. By focusing on inclusive growth, the government hopes to create a tourism industry that benefits all sectors of society, while preserving the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Tourism in the Solomon Islands

The tourism sector in the Solomon Islands is set to be a powerful driver of economic development, job creation, and local prosperity. With targeted support for local businesses, the expansion of eco-tourism, and investments in infrastructure, the country is poised to see continued growth in this vital industry. As the government works closely with local operators to improve services and expand capacity, the future of tourism in the Solomon Islands looks brighter than ever.