20 Aruba families receive legal home ownership certificates during a special ceremony held at Fort Zoutman, marking an important milestone for residents who have lived in their homes for many years.
During the event, 20 citizens officially received their erfpacht (long-term leasehold) certificates, granting them legal recognition as the rightful owners of the homes where they have resided for years.
Long Process Finally Completed
The program allowing residents to purchase their homes was previously offered through the Fundacion Cas pa Comunidad Arubano (FCCA). Many residents successfully completed payments for their houses over the years.
However, the transfer of official ownership documents was delayed because the land on which the homes were built remained registered under the name of Pais Aruba.
Since taking office, the AVP-Futuro government has prioritized addressing community concerns raised during direct meetings with residents. One recurring issue was the situation of homeowners who had fully paid for their houses but had not yet received their official property documents.
Government Agencies Work Together
Prime Minister Mike Eman took the matter seriously and held meetings with representatives from FCCA, the Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP), and the Department of Land Survey and Property Registration (DLV).
Through collaboration between these institutions, the government was able to move forward with completing the long-delayed property transfers.
Symbolic Moment for Families
During his speech, Prime Minister Eman emphasized that the ceremony carried special meaning, particularly as Aruba celebrates 40 years of Status Aparte and reflects on the country’s historic journey toward greater autonomy.
He explained that autonomy also means ensuring that the country’s resources and opportunities are shared fairly among citizens, enabling families to live with dignity and stability.
Eman noted that providing official property ownership represents more than an administrative process. For many families, it symbolizes security, stability, and the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise.
A Dream Realized for Many Families
Addressing the recipients, the Prime Minister acknowledged the patience of the families who had waited many years for this moment.
“You have waited a long time for this day, and today we are happy to finally fulfill this commitment,” Eman said. “I wish you many blessings in your own homes.”
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Infrastructure René “Baba” Herdé, representatives from FCCA, officials from DIP and DLV, notaries, and family members of the beneficiaries.
Continued Efforts to Address Housing Needs
The government stated that efforts will continue to address Aruba’s housing shortage through cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Future initiatives include stimulating the construction of quality and affordable homes, as well as revitalizing neighborhoods to create housing opportunities for young families, professionals, and senior citizens.
With the delivery of these erfpacht certificates, 20 more Aruban families have taken an important step in their lives — gaining the security of being the legal owners of their own homes.
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