After many years of waiting, seventeen residents of community housing in Aruba have officially become homeowners, following the signing of their long-term lease (erfpacht) transfer deeds.
For decades, many families living in government-supported community houses across Aruba were given the opportunity to purchase the homes they had occupied for years through the Aruban Community Housing Foundation (FCCA). While several residents managed to fully pay off their homes long ago, the formal transfer process was delayed because the land remained registered under the Government of Aruba.
After taking office, the AVP–Futuro Cabinet made it a priority to listen to community concerns, including long-standing housing issues. Prime Minister Mike Eman intervened directly, convening a meeting on July 31, 2025, with representatives from FCCA, DIP, and DLV. At the conclusion of that meeting, the Prime Minister announced that the homeowners would receive their official property deeds before the end of 2025 as a Christmas gift.
That promise was fulfilled on Friday, December 17, when the seventeen homeowners officially signed their erfpacht deeds at Fort Zoutman, in the presence of family members, Notary Yarzagaray and his team, and representatives of FCCA.
Julie Wever, Technical and Commercial Director of FCCA, congratulated all new homeowners, emphasizing that the achievement was made possible through close cooperation between FCCA, DIP, and DLV.
Minister of Infrastructure René Baba Herdé highlighted that community housing remains a critical need in Aruba, noting the development of multiple residential neighborhoods across the island. He also acknowledged the contributions of past leaders such as Mito Croes, E.J. Watty Vos, and Henny Eman, who played key roles in advancing social housing initiatives.
Prime Minister Eman reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the people, particularly after witnessing housing needs firsthand during neighborhood action visits. He praised several officials and professionals whose coordinated efforts made the transfers possible in a short timeframe.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the financial and operational challenges faced by FCCA, which manages community housing in 45 different areas across the island, stressing that maintaining and expanding affordable housing requires continuous effort and funding.
The AVP–Futuro Cabinet continues to work on easing the housing shortage by promoting construction projects through public–private partnerships, revitalizing neighborhoods, and supporting young professionals, young families, and senior citizens in accessing affordable, quality housing.
photo credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/diesshete-ciudadano-porfin-a-bira-dono-di-nan-mesun-cas
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