ORANJESTAD (AAN) – FADs Deployed Around Aruba to Help Local Fishermen was the central focus of Minister Wendrick Cicilia’s recent announcement. Through this initiative, the Aruba government, via the Ministry of Kingdom Relations, Education, Youth, Innovation, and Sports, has officially begun a strategic deployment of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) in Aruba’s territorial waters. This is part of a broader effort to improve local fishermen’s access to fish and enhance safety at sea.
Fishing Aggregating Devices (FADs) are structures placed in the ocean to attract fish. By installing these devices closer to the shore and within Aruba’s territorial waters, fishermen do not have to venture far into foreign waters, significantly reducing risks and contributing to safer fishing practices.
The Benefits to Fishermen: This initiative benefits everyone involved in fishing activities, whether recreational, commercial, or professional, providing particular support to the most vulnerable and underserved fishing communities. The locations for the FADs were determined through consultations with stakeholders, ensuring that the needs of the local fishermen were fully taken into account.
This action follows a meeting held on December 20, 2025, during which Minister Wendrick Cicilia met with fishermen and representatives from fishing organizations to address their concerns and priorities. In line with this commitment, Minister Cicilia also announced plans for more dialogue sessions with fishermen to ensure ongoing commitment and attention.
Not Just Promises, but Action: “Supporting our fishermen means more than making promises – it means taking concrete action. By placing FADs, we improve their safety, strengthen their livelihoods, and ensure that our fishermen receive meaningful and significant support,” Minister Cicilia expressed.
The AVP-Futuro Cabinet continues to give special attention to the fishing sector, placing the needs of fishermen firmly on Aruba’s national agenda. This initiative also reflects the effective use of tourism-related resources, with funding provided by the Aruba Tourism Authority, demonstrating how tourism funds can directly support local communities.
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