Editor’s note: The following was taken from the Discover Dominica Authority’s newsletter, Issue 7
The heritage of the Kalinago people in Dominica is an important aspect of the Nature Island’s tourism product. In order to further enhance the presence of Dominica’s indigenous people in the tourism industry, several projects were initiated at the Kalinago Barana Autê (KBA) in Crayfish River during Tourism Awareness Month in May.
It is expected that the skills gained from these workshops will contribute to the livelihood of the Kalinago people.
For several years, some visitors have stayed with residents in the Carib Territory so that they could actively experience the lifestyle of the Kalinago people. Interested stakeholders agree that this activity has great potential for further development, if it is managed according to specific guidelines.
Considerable research has been conducted to review similar initiatives in other countries with indigenous people. A DDA official evaluated the Mayan ‘homestay’ programme in Belize. Other ‘home-stay’ activities in Thailand and Grenada were examined so that procedures would be comparable for Dominica’s indigenous people.
Draft guidelines were created and an awareness session was held on 12th May 2011 at the Kalinago Barana Autê. Feedback from the Kalinago stakeholders revealed that they are in favour of the proposed plan and its accompanying registration forms for hosts and guests. As a result of this review, the draft material has been forwarded to the Tourism Licensing Committee for its consideration and approval.
Three other heritage training activities were featured at the KBA in May and June in order to enhance the\ skills of the Kalinago people. Sessions focused on the
Art of Thatching, Canoe Making and Craft Production.
Unique visitor experiences with the Kalinago people of Dominica will be further developed with improvements to promotional material. The information will include a wide range of sites and attractions in the Carib Territory.
The DDA and the Kalinago Barana Autê (through the Ministry of Tourism and Legal Affairs) continue to explore product development initiatives that will benefit Dominica’s indigenous people. It is anticipated that their distinctive heritage will be sustained and economic gains will be realised through increased involvement in the tourism industry.
That will be good for tourism