‘Continuity is key’ – Belize High Commissioner calls for deeper tourism integration

In an era of political tensions, climate vulnerability and economic volatility, Belize High Commissioner to Guyana, Gale Miller Garnet is urging Caribbean states to promote collaboration that outlasts governments.

Speaking at the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana’s Annual General Meeting at Herdmanston Lodge, Garnet drew on Belize’s own tourism journey to make the case for stronger regional collaboration across the Caribbean. She singled out Guyana as a partner in that effort.

“When we have a change of political administration, there is continuity, and [Belize’s] tourism master plan is one of those examples and that is absolutely necessary.

“It is important for us to ensure that there is continuity and that is key,” Miller Garnet said.

According to her, Belize has built a tourism destination by leaning into what it already is. She said the lush forests, and vibrant cultural mosaic of ethnicity, which provides different cultures and traditions has amplified its tourism offerings.

Tourism is a pillar for the industry there. The sector contributes 40 per cent of the country’s gross-domestic product. However, the sector was supported by international bodies such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) which provided the research and funding to create the Tourism Master Plan in 2012. It has survived changes in political administration and according to Garnet this is a model that other Caribbean nations would do well to study.

“It is important for us to protect our people, protect our culture and our ecosystems and create an environment for our economies to thrive,” Garnet Miller said.

Although Guyana’s tourism sector is emerging as a significant prospect to drive revenue, the nation is still building its destination products to supply the influx of visitors. The government has called on investors to provide some 2,000 additional rooms and has said its air space is open for airline services.

But Garnet Miller also warned that while airlines are vital to tourism connectivity, the movement of food and animals across borders carries disease risks that cannot be ignored. She said blocking tourism is never the intent but safety must remain a priority.

Like Guyana, Belize is also challenged with targeting young people for the agriculture and tourism sectors. She shared that like Guyana, Belize is also relying on technology to encourage young people to join these sectors.