The Department of Tourism is supporting tourism operators, homestay hosts and community tourism businesses on Maewo Island as they prepare to welcome visitors for the National Agriculture Expo 2026, which will be held from 3 to 7 August.

From a press release it states that with visitor numbers expected to increase during the Expo, the Department has deployed tourism officers to help strengthen accommodation services and improve visitor readiness across the island.

Support includes the distribution of tourism materials, refresher training for accommodation providers and homestay hosts, and on-site guidance to improve hospitality standards.

The activities are being carried out in partnership with the National Agriculture Expo Committee, recognising tourism’s important role in supporting national events and creating new economic opportunities for local communities.

The Department acknowledged the work of PENAMA Provincial Tourism Manager William Smith Mala and Tourism Product Development Officer Lesly Mera, who are currently on Maewo working directly with tourism operators and host communities ahead of the Expo.

Throughout the event, the Department of Tourism will also operate an information and service booth where tourism operators, businesses and members of the public can access tourism permit renewals, administrative assistance, information on tourism programmes and advice on tourism standards and business development.

The Department is encouraging visitors attending the National Agriculture Expo to explore Maewo’s tourism attractions, support local businesses and experience the island’s culture, hospitality and natural beauty.

Officials say the National Agriculture Expo is not only an opportunity to showcase agriculture but also to demonstrate how agriculture and tourism can work together to strengthen local economies, generate income for communities and promote sustainable provincial development.