ORANJESTAD (AAN): The Santa Rosa Aruba Celebrates 50 Years of Agriculture as the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries prepares to mark its historic milestone with a special farmers market and community celebration.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 7, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where the public is invited to visit the Santa Rosa market and enjoy a variety of locally produced fruits, vegetables, and fresh agricultural products. The celebration will also recognize the important contributions of farmers, livestock breeders, and others who collaborate with the island’s primary sector.
According to Nathalie Maduro, Director of the Department, the anniversary is an opportunity not only to celebrate the department’s history but also to highlight the importance of agriculture, livestock, and fishing for Aruba’s future.
The Santa Rosa Aruba Celebrates 50 Years of Agriculture by recognizing the department’s long journey since its establishment in 1976, when the government created the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries as an experimental initiative aimed at strengthening local agricultural development.
Over the decades, the department has evolved into an essential institution that supports Aruba’s farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen. Its mission has been to improve services to the public while promoting sustainable agriculture and strengthening the island’s local food production.
In earlier years, the department faced challenges including limited resources and declining motivation among employees. However, recognizing that agriculture, livestock, and fishing are deeply connected to Aruba’s culture and history, the government implemented new management strategies to modernize the department and improve its services.
The department’s renewed vision focuses on becoming a leader in information, research, innovation, and guidance within the agricultural sector. Special attention is given to supporting horticulturists, livestock farmers, fishermen, and even schoolchildren interested in learning about agriculture.
In recent years, Santa Rosa has undergone major improvements and introduced several initiatives designed to strengthen Aruba’s primary sector. One of the most popular initiatives is the Santa Rosa farmers market, which allows residents to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, and fresh meats directly from local producers.
These markets also provide farmers and livestock breeders with an opportunity to sell their products, helping to strengthen the local economy and promote sustainable food production on the island.
The department has also launched projects aimed at increasing local agricultural production, promoting sustainable farming techniques, and encouraging young people to learn about agriculture and food security.
As the Santa Rosa Aruba Celebrates 50 Years of Agriculture, the department continues to look ahead toward a future where local production plays an even stronger role in Aruba’s economy and food supply.
Residents are invited to visit the market on Saturday to support local farmers, enjoy fresh products, and celebrate the important milestone together with the agricultural community.
