WILLEMSTAD - The new public housing initiative Mi Kas Awor has already attracted 9,000 registrations, according to Minister of Traffic, Transport and Spatial Planning (VVRP) Charles Cooper (MFK). The announcement was made during a podcast, where the minister shared insights into his leadership philosophy, personal journey, and ambitious plans for Curaçao’s housing sector.

During the interview, Cooper described Mi Kas Awor as the launchpad for a renewed housing policy on the island, designed to help residents — especially young people — achieve homeownership and build long-term financial stability. “The goal is to give people the chance to own something and create wealth,” he explained.

The minister, who recently also assumed responsibility for the Finance Ministry, pointed out that many young Curaçaoans returning from abroad struggle to buy or afford homes. Host Christopher de Wind noted that local youth face similar challenges when trying to establish themselves financially.

Cooper emphasized that the Mi Kas Awor project is inclusive, offering opportunities even for people receiving government assistance. “If someone is on welfare but earns some extra income — for example, by doing nails — that person can still participate in the program,” he said.

Under the program’s structure, participants would pay around 300 guilders per month for 15 to 20 years. The government would contribute an additional 400 to 500 guilders, and the remaining 200 guilders would be covered by a mortgage. “You commit yourself for about twenty years to pay a fixed amount each month for a home worth approximately 200,000 guilders,” Cooper explained.

However, the minister warned that discipline is essential: “It’s crucial to make the payments every month — otherwise, you lose the right to the home.”