CTO’s Ramgulam Highlights Tourism’s Role in Hurricane Melissa Recovery Review

Narendra Ramgulam, Deputy Director of Sustainable Tourism at the CTO, spoke at the After-Action Review for Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. The session focused on lessons learned and shifting from emergency response to recovery. The meeting was facilitated by CDEMA and the Early Recovery Thematic Working Group of the Caribbean Development Partners Group.

Sustainable tourism as a resilience strategy

Ramgulam stressed that tourism businesses and communities showed clear vulnerabilities during Hurricane Melissa. He argued for sustainable tourism growth to strengthen recovery and reduce future risks. CTO guidance calls for climate-positive development across the sector.

Practical measures for the private sector

Ramgulam urged tourism operators to adopt business continuity plans and resilience strategies. He highlighted energy efficiency, waste reduction, and conservation as priority actions. These measures help small enterprises recover faster and operate sustainably.

Community-centered recovery efforts

The discussion emphasized community-based tourism as central to inclusive recovery. Supporting local enterprises helps preserve culture and spread economic benefits. Ramgulam noted that integrating communities into planning boosts long-term tourism stability.

Collaboration and regional coordination

Speakers called for joint action among governments, tourism stakeholders, and communities. The recovery review underlined the need for shared frameworks and funding support. CTO will continue working with national partners to promote eco-tourism and climate resilience.

Filmogaz.com will follow updates on the recovery review and ongoing efforts across the Caribbean tourism sector. The region aims to rebuild stronger with sustainable, community-focused policies.