By Meriba Tulo – EMTV News, Port Moresby
For the capital of South Bougainville in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, a gradual demand for short-term accommodation has created opportunities for businesses in the tourism & hospitality industry.
Among the businesses that have evolved to meet this demand, is Buin Inn. A family-run operation, its owner, Albert Nukuitu is optimistic of further positive growth in the near future.
In recent years, business activities have slowly picked up in Buin South Bougainville, with more and more people traveling to this part of the island region.
Speaking to EMTV News, Mr Nukuitu explained the gradual growth in visitor numbers, which have underpinned the expansion of their business.
The Buin of today is very different to that of previous years – which was a town known as an outlaw town, and understandably a difficult place to do business.
With Buin slowly opening up to the rest of Bougainville, and Papua New Guinea, this has seen a change in the local business environment But despite increasing business activities, one main hindrance still remains – a lack of access to insurance.
Most operators, Buin Inn included, have had to risk their finances to develop their businesses, without access to insurance services.
Like most other parts of Bougainville, future business plans hinge on the result of the upcoming political referendum, scheduled to begin on October 12th this year.
For Mr. Nukuitu, with the referendum approaching, businesses are also preparing for the outcome, whatever it may be. Adding that Buin Inn remains committed to providing the best service for his guests.
