The Accion den Bario initiative by Premier Mike Eman continued on Thursday, March 5, with visits to neighborhoods in Tanki Leendert and Paraguana, as part of the government’s effort to maintain direct contact with local communities and listen to residents’ concerns.
The weekly activity, which takes place every Thursday, is designed to allow government representatives to meet citizens directly in their neighborhoods and better understand their needs.
Visit to Music School in Paraguana
During the visit, the delegation stopped at Paraguana 3-C, where they visited the home of Junior Arends. Arends presented a demonstration of his music school, performing several musical pieces for those present.
Junior Arends has been teaching music since 2013 and currently guides approximately 70 children each week, helping develop musical talent among young people in the community.
His work has become an important cultural contribution to the neighborhood by encouraging creativity and artistic development among youth.
New Brass Band Initiative
As part of the Accion den Bario initiative by Premier Mike Eman, the Prime Minister also visited the home of Elizabeth Guanipa’s aunt, where Roderick and John presented their idea to establish a community Brass Band project.
The proposed brass band aims to encourage musical talent and create opportunities for young people in the area, offering them a constructive way to develop skills and participate in cultural activities.
Government Departments Support Community Efforts
The Accion den Bario initiative by Premier Mike Eman also involves participation from several government departments that accompany the visits to evaluate issues raised by residents.
Among the departments regularly involved are:
-
Serlimar
-
City Inspector
-
Department of Public Works (DOW)
-
Other public service agencies
These teams assess local conditions such as waste collection, bulky garbage removal, overgrown vegetation, and neighborhood safety concerns.
Residents also have the opportunity to report problems directly, allowing authorities to respond more quickly and implement practical solutions.
Community Appreciation
Many residents welcomed the visit and expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to maintain direct contact with communities.
Several pensioners who met the delegation during the visit also expressed gratitude for the recent pension increase, stating that the adjustment has helped ease some of their daily financial challenges.
According to the government, initiatives like Accion den Bario are intended to strengthen community relationships, support local initiatives, and promote social and cultural development throughout Aruba.
