Despite the change in government, Stichting Rancho says it still receives no clear attention or direction from authorities. Clifford Rosa, the foundation’s president, highlighted ongoing struggles in maintaining historic structures such as the well-known oven on Ranchostraat, often without help from official entities.
In an interview, Rosa expressed frustration over the lack of support, saying they have to rely on volunteers and social media awareness to bring attention to the situation. Even basic services like street cleaning have become a bureaucratic runaround, with departments like Serlimar and DOW passing the responsibility back and forth.
Rosa noted that Aruba’s focus remains heavily on tourism, while local heritage and communities are being overlooked.
“We can’t just think about cruise ships. We need to invest in our own people too,” he said.
With the high season approaching, he stressed that maintenance and preparation should be structural and sustainable, not reactive and seasonal. However, without funding, the foundation’s hands are tied.
Stichting Rancho has made agreements with the government, but without proper follow-through, its continued operation—and its volunteer-driven mission—is at risk.
Photo Credit : diario.aw
