ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Member of Parliament Jennifer Arends-Reyes has expressed strong support for Aruba’s new Algemeen Investerings- en Ontwikkelingsfonds (AIOF), describing it as an important tool for financing long-term strategic investments that will benefit the island.
During the parliamentary debate on the legislation, Arends-Reyes noted that approximately AWG 43 million has already been allocated for investments that can help advance projects aimed at improving infrastructure, economic development, and the quality of life for Aruba’s residents.
She explained that the AIOF separates investment funding from the government’s regular operating expenses, allowing major projects to continue across multiple budget years instead of being delayed or interrupted.
According to Arends-Reyes, the fund can support investments in infrastructure, sustainability, innovation, digitalization, economic growth, and the modernization of public services.
She also stressed that Parliament will retain full budget oversight, with every investment project requiring parliamentary approval. In addition, the Minister of Finance will submit financial reports every six months, while a public digital platform will allow residents to monitor projects, budgets, and expenditures.
Arends-Reyes emphasized that every public florin invested through the AIOF should deliver measurable results, including improved infrastructure, economic opportunities, and better public services for Aruba.
