27/05/2026
BONUGA TAKES OVER TOURISM MINISTRY | The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) and Tourism Solomons officially welcomed new Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon. James Bonuga, and farewelled outgoing Minister, Hon. Choylin Douglas, during a ceremony at the Mendana Hotel in Honiara on May 22, 2026. During the ceremony, Hon. Douglas officially handed over leadership responsibilities to Hon. Bonuga, marking a smooth transition for the ministry’s tourism, culture, arts, and heritage programs. Permanent Secretary Bunyan Sivoro praised both leaders for the orderly handover and thanked Hon. Douglas for her service over the past two years. He highlighted major achievements during her term, including the increase of the ministry’s annual budget from SBD $10 million to SBD $46 million from 2025 and securing Solomon Islands as host of the South Pacific Tourism Organization Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting later this year in Honiara. Minister Bonuga thanked the outgoing minister for her leadership and contributions to tourism and cultural development. “The future of tourism in Solomon Islands is full of promise and opportunity,” he said. “We must continue working together to build a tourism industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial for all Solomon Islanders.” He also called for stronger cooperation between ministry staff, partners, and stakeholders to further promote Solomon Islands as a unique tourism destination offering authentic experiences. Outgoing Minister Choylin Douglas thanked ministry staff, Tourism Solomons, and partners for their support during her time in office. She congratulated Hon. Bonuga on his appointment and encouraged everyone to continue working together to strengthen tourism while protecting and promoting Solomon Islands culture and traditions.
Source/Photo credit @ MCT