Saint Kitts and Nevis Advocates for Community-Based Heritage Tourism at OAS Tourism Congress

The Twenty-Sixth Inter-American Congress of Ministers and High Authorities of Tourism, convened by the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington D.C., brought together representatives from across the Americas to explore the transformative potential of heritage tourism. Under the theme “Harnessing the Power of Heritage Tourism for Development in the Americas,” the conference served as a platform for sharing best practices, fostering collaboration, and charting a course towards sustainable and inclusive tourism development. Ms. Tivanna Wharton, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism of Saint Kitts and Nevis, delivered a compelling presentation that showcased the Federation’s innovative approach to leveraging its rich cultural heritage for economic empowerment and community development. Her address underscored the importance of integrating local communities into the tourism value chain, preserving cultural traditions, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the grassroots level.

Central to Ms. Wharton’s presentation was the concept of tourism as a tool for empowerment, a vision embraced by the Ministry of Tourism under the leadership of Minister Hon. Marsha T. Henderson since 2022. This approach emphasizes the active involvement of local entrepreneurs, artisans, and performers in crafting authentic visitor experiences. Through initiatives such as linking local entrepreneurs with cruise lines and industry stakeholders, and conducting hands-on workshops, the Federation has facilitated the development of market-ready products and services that showcase the unique cultural tapestry of Saint Kitts and Nevis. This strategic shift has transformed the visitor experience, ensuring that tourists are immersed in the vibrant cultural expressions of the islands, from masquerade dancers and steelpan music to handmade crafts and traditional cuisine. This integration not only enriches the tourist experience but also provides vital economic opportunities for the local communities that are the custodians of this cultural heritage.

Ms. Wharton elaborated on the Federation’s commitment to showcasing its rich historical and cultural assets. She highlighted iconic landmarks such as the Brimstone Hill National Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Old Road Rum Distillery, nestled beneath the renowned Caribelle Batik, as prime examples of the nation’s heritage tourism offerings. She also emphasized the role of major cultural events like Sugar Mas, Culturama, Restaurant Week, and the St. Kitts Music Festival in not only celebrating the nation’s heritage but also generating significant economic activity for local communities. By prioritizing local businesses in vendor marketplaces during these events, the Federation ensures that the economic benefits of tourism directly impact the grassroots level. While international headliners may draw large crowds, it is the local communities that reap the rewards, solidifying the connection between cultural celebration and economic empowerment.

Looking towards the future, Ms. Wharton unveiled the upcoming launch of the Heart of the Community Incubator, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower Afro-descendant communities through targeted support and resources. This program will provide marketing assistance, small business grants, and mentorship opportunities, equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools and skills necessary to thrive in the tourism industry. Specialized workshops on digital marketing will further enhance their capacity to connect with global markets and expand their reach. This initiative exemplifies the Federation’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring that the benefits of tourism extend to all segments of society, particularly marginalized communities.

The Permanent Secretary underscored the Federation’s commitment to supporting this vision through the implementation of key policies. These include tax incentives designed to encourage the growth of small, locally owned businesses, measures to protect and preserve cultural heritage sites, and mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the impact of tourism at the community level. These policies demonstrate a holistic approach to tourism development, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of economic growth, cultural preservation, and community well-being. By providing tangible support to local businesses and safeguarding cultural assets, the Federation is creating a sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits both visitors and residents.

Ms. Wharton emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the future of tourism. Referencing a recent study conducted in partnership with Sustainable Travel International, she revealed that an overwhelming majority of residents expressed a strong desire to play a more active role in shaping the tourism landscape. The government’s response has been proactive, providing funding, training, and opportunities for inclusion, demonstrating a commitment to incorporating community voices into tourism planning and development. This collaborative approach ensures that tourism initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of the local population, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the sustainable growth of the sector. In concluding her remarks, Ms. Wharton reiterated Saint Kitts and Nevis’ solidarity with the broader OAS mission of uplifting Afro-descendant heritage throughout the Americas. She highlighted the shared experiences and struggles of Afro-descendant communities across the region, from the quilombos of Brazil to the Maroon communities of Suriname and the Gullah-Geechee culture in the United States. This powerful message of unity and shared purpose underscored the importance of celebrating and preserving the rich tapestry of Afro-descendant cultures, recognizing heritage tourism as a powerful tool for empowerment and cultural preservation. By sharing their unique stories with the world, these communities contribute to a richer and more diverse global cultural landscape, while simultaneously creating economic opportunities and fostering a deeper understanding of their unique histories and traditions.