The tourism is a very lucrative industry that has the potential to provide much needed revenue for Bougainville while promoting Bougainville’s cultural heritage.

Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama made this statement during the opening of the 2022 Siwai Cultural Show at Panakei, Siwai District, South Bougainville today.

The opening ceremony showcased many cultural groups from South Bougainville as well as a group from North Bougainville who are taking part in the two day event.

“While we are aware of the investment opportunities that the tourism industry will provide for Bougainville we must also promote and protect our cultural heritage which is our identity,” President Toroama said.

“Our cultural heritage is our identity as a people who are unique and blessed with abundant resources,” President Toroama said.

“As we prepare for independence and sovereignty we must recognize ourselves and the journey that we have travelled to arrive where we are today,” President added.

President Toroama pledged to assist the Siwai Cultural Show to ensure it continues to promote Bougainville’s unique cultural traditions.

President Toroama also congratulated the Member for South Bougainville Timothy Masiu for his continued patronage of the annual event.

Mr Masiu said that he has plans to expanding the event throughout South Bougainville and to involve North and Central Bougainville.

He said through events like this Bougainville has the opportunity to raise more internal revenue for the government and promote peace in the communities.

The 2022 Siwai Cultural Show was officially opened by President Toroama and the Member for South Bougainville Timothy Masiu.