The GTI E_Convention was a global event held from 24th to the 27th of November, dedicated to finding innovative solutions for self-sufficiency and sustainability of island nations. The three day global event focused on the most innovative solutions on energy, water, mobility, waste, agriculture, blue growth and sustainable tourism.
This virtual event was organized by Italy’s Greening the Islands (GTI) association, where Maldives Integrated Tourism Development Corporation (MITDC) represented the Maldives. The Managing Director of MITDC, Mr. Mohamed Raaidh, spoke at the conference as well. He addressed the current issues in local tourism, and presented a new concept that would better benefit the island communities. His presentation also emphasized “Community Based Tourism”, which stressed collaboration between guest house owners and the island communities, creating further opportunities for locals to work at the comfort of their own island, lessening the burden on a single party, creating a greater community impact and hence facilitating overall economic growth of the community.
The segment allocated for Maldives was officially inaugurated by the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, and the Honorable Minister of Environment, Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan. In addition to the respective Ministers, the conference also included participation from the Deputy CEO of Soneva Group Mr. Bruce Bromley, Former President of MATATO Mr. Mohamed Khaleel, along with Hoarafushi Island Council and Rinbudhoo Island Council.