The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) elected Barbados as its new chairman for the next two years.

The election took place during the CTO’s Ministerial Council meeting held in the Cayman Islands on Tuesday, which coincided with the organisation’s annual State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC).

As such, Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill will assume the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism, while Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, will serve as chairman of the board of directors.

Gooding-Edghill expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the CTO.

“We are all in this together. We have a lot of work to do,” he stated.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank my colleague, Minister Bryan … for all that you’ve contributed over the last two years. Under my leadership, with the help of all of my colleagues, we will certainly continue to advance the cause of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.”

Barbados succeeds outgoing chair Cayman Islands, led by Minister of Tourism and Ports Kenneth Bryan and Director of Tourism Rosa Harris.

The Cayman Islands’ tenure was marked by significant achievements for the CTO, including:

• The election of a new Secretary General and CEO, Dona Regis-Prosper
• The launch of a “reimagine” exercise to strengthen the organization
• The re-engagement of members, welcoming back the US Virgin Islands and Bermuda
• Increased internal and external communication efforts

“I hope that I’m leaving this organisation in a stronger position and well placed to meet the opportunities and the challenges ahead,” said outgoing Chairman Kenneth Bryan, commending his team, including Director of Tourism Rosa Harris, for their leadership, dedication and service.

During the meeting, CTO members expressed their appreciation for the leadership of Minister Bryan and Director Harris during Cayman Islands’ chairmanship. The members acknowledged their commitment, vision and tireless efforts, which have undoubtedly strengthened the CTO and set the stage for continued progress under the new leadership team.