WILLEMSTAD – Dutch State Secretary for Digitalization and Kingdom Relations, Eddie van Marum, spent two days on Curaçao engaging with residents, entrepreneurs, and government officials about strengthening cooperation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. He shared reflections from his visit on his LinkedIn page.
During his stay, Van Marum met with Governor Lucille George-Wout, the Council of Ministers led by Deputy Prime Minister Javier Silvania, and Parliament President Fergino Brownbill. The talks focused on how the Kingdom partners can support each other as equal members while addressing shared challenges.
Inspired by Young Entrepreneurs
The state secretary visited ecofarm Hòfi Cas Cora, where he met young entrepreneurs. He highlighted the story of one farmer who lost his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, sold his car and motorbikes to raise start-up capital, and now successfully supplies hydroponically grown lettuce to local supermarkets. “What resilience and achievement!” Van Marum wrote.
Balancing Nature and Growth
At the Mangrove Park, Van Marum spoke with rangers about balancing conservation with agriculture, fisheries, and tourism to ensure both ecological protection and sustainable economic growth for the island.
Confronting Shared History
He also visited the Slavery Memorial Committee and murals depicting resistance fighters, emphasizing discussions on Curaçao’s shared history with the Netherlands. “We spoke about our shared past, the struggle for recognition, and how we can now work together toward healing,” he noted.
Community and Cultural Engagement
Van Marum toured the Otrobanda neighborhood, where a successful social housing project has been implemented, and met with fishermen in Zakito to discuss their cooperative and the future of local fisheries.
Focus on Wildlife Protection
His visit concluded at Stichting Bob, where veterinarian Odette Doest runs both a clinic and an animal rescue center. Van Marum discussed the protection of native bird species and met Curaçao’s most famous flamingo, Bob, who serves as a symbol in local educational programs.
