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The Community Tourism Agency Launches Obey's Sanctuary
Another Saint Lucian entrepreneur has embraced the call to enhance the country’s tourism offerings with the launch of Obey’s Sanctuary. The intimate eight-bedroom property, located in the heart of Black Bay, is the latest success story facilitated by the Community Tourism Agency’s (CTA) mission to support locally driven tourism ventures.
During a celebratory ceremony marking this milestone owner, Mrs. Donna Obeius expressed deep gratitude to the many stakeholders who contributed to the project’s success. “The journey here has been one of heartfelt gratitude, to God for His guidance and to the many individuals and institutions that supported us along the way,” she shared. She also acknowledged the role of the CTA, under the Ministry of Tourism, for its hands-on support in bringing the vision of Obey’s Sanctuary to life.
Government officials highlighted the significance of this development for community-based tourism. Senator Gibeon Ferdinand, Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, commended local entrepreneurs for diversifying Saint Lucia’s tourism product. He emphasized the importance of policy reforms in creating an enabling environment for small businesses, ensuring local operators have the tools and resources for sustainable success.
The CTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Dahlia Guard, underscored the agency’s commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs through strategic branding and business development. She shared how the CTA team worked closely with Donna Obeius to refine the property’s name, develop its brand identity, and establish marketing guidelines.
Meanwhile, Mr. Louis Lewis, Chief of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), reaffirmed the SLTA’s commitment to promoting properties like Obey’s Sanctuary. He stressed the importance of strong brand positioning in attracting travelers seeking authentic, locally owned accommodations.
Programme Specialist Christopher McNair, of the CARICOM Development Fund also applauded the Ministry of Tourism and the CTA for prioritizing local ownership in the tourism industry.“In many destinations, the importance of locally driven tourism is often overlooked. But in Saint Lucia, it is recognized, developed, and built upon. Kudos to the Ministry of Tourism and the CTA for leading the way,” he said.
As Saint Lucia’s tourism industry continues to expand, stakeholders remain optimistic that community-driven tourism, policy innovation, and sustainability initiatives will further unlock the island’s economic potential.
