The Strategic Planning Working Group for the Ministry of Tourism & Investment in Antigua and Barbuda. A ntigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Tourism and Investment has completed its draft Strategic Plan. The plan was developed by a working group in the Ministry led by Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher. The team was supported by Franklyn Michael, CARICAD’s Programme Specialist, as Lead Facilitator for the process. He used the well-established CARICAD Goals-based Methodology for Strategic Planning as the basis for the process but took cognisance of the regional thrust towards a Results-Based Management (RBM) approach to long-term planning. The Ministry of Tourism and Investment comprises two portfolios – Tourism and Investment. The Tourism industry is supported by three pillars: Accommodations (hotels and other properties), Yachting and Cruise Tourism. The Ministry is also developing opportunities in niches such as Agro-tourism, Sports Tourism and Cultural tourism. CARICAD provided expertise to assist in developing a strategic framework that is the foundation of a three-year Strategic Plan. CARICAD also facilitated four interactive in-country practical working sessions in Antigua which included consultations with stakeholders. The process was intensely consultative and participatory, with the work being produced by teams. Staff and stakeholders were afforded opportunities to make meaningful input with regard to critical areas of action that must be done going forward. The Plan is laid out in a manner consistent with the CARICAD methodology. Information and data derived from research, analysis and consultation are followed by a strategic direction-setting, establishment of priorities, and priorities for implementation. The Plan will be supplemented during each budget cycle by an annual implementation matrix. The matrix will identify the ongoing and new initiatives as well as the projects and programmes that the Ministry will implement. The Ministry stressed that the document is a strategic Plan for the whole Ministry and not a Tourism Development or Product Development Plan. The Plan will be used to ensure strategic and operational alignment not only within the Ministry but also with strategic partners. The Draft Plan will shortly be submitted to the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda for approval. 10
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