The Aruba AIOF investment structure is intended to connect long-term public projects with formal evaluation, budgeting, oversight and public reporting, Finance Minister Geoffrey Wever told Parliament.
Fund supports projects beyond one budget year
According to Wever’s explanation reported by 24ora, the General Investment and Development Fund allows Aruba to prepare and finance projects whose studies, designs, procurement and construction cannot be completed within a single 12-month budget cycle.
The fund was established by national ordinance on July 9, 2026. Its resources can come from Aruba’s national budget as well as third-party contributions, including possible support from the Netherlands and the European Union.
Projects face formal evaluation
Ministries may submit investment proposals for review by the Investment Evaluation Commission. Wever said assessments can consider effectiveness, sustainability, feasibility, governance and oversight, with outside expertise added where a project’s nature requires it.
A multi-year investment agenda can cover areas including urban renewal, education, the energy transition, climate resilience, sustainable housing, infrastructure and emerging economic sectors. Wever emphasized that available money alone should not determine whether a proposal proceeds.
Reporting remains within the national budget system
AIOF has a separate budget for revenue, spending and financial obligations, while its annual accounts are consolidated with Aruba’s national accounts. The Finance Department administers the fund and the Central Audit Department has an oversight role.
The finance minister must provide revenue and expenditure summaries every six months, with copies also going to the Committee for Financial Supervision. The evaluation commission must report annually, and the law requires a public review of the ordinance’s effectiveness and impact after five years.
Source: 24ora
