Promoting Tourism in Milne Bay Province: A New JICA Volunteer Begins Activities

In June 2026, Mr. Shunichi Nishigaki, a JICA Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (JOCV), began his assignment with the Milne Bay Provincial Tourism Bureau in Alotau, where he will work in the field of tourism promotion.

Alotau, the capital of Milne Bay Province, is one of Papua New Guinea’s leading coastal towns in the eastern part of the country. The province is blessed with beautiful seas and islands, rich natural environments, and diverse cultural traditions, making it an attractive tourist destination. In recent years, Alotau has also gained attention as a port of call for cruise ships, and the tourism industry plays an important role in the development of the local economy.

Before joining JICA Volunteer, Mr. Nishigaki worked for eight years at the Sakaiminato Tourism Association in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, where he was involved in tourist information services, tourism promotion activities, and providing information to visitors during cruise ship calls. Drawing on this experience, he will work together with the staff of the Tourism Bureau to promote the unique attractions of Milne Bay Province to both domestic and international visitors.

The JICA Volunteers works closely with local partner organizations and communities, emphasizing mutual learning and people-to-people connections. It is hoped that Mr. Nishigaki’s activities will contribute to the promotion of tourism in Milne Bay Province, highlight the region’s unique attractions, and further strengthen the friendship between Papua New Guinea and Japan.