Aruba launches Cunucu Butucu project to strengthen local production and food security

With this project, the Government aims to create the proper conditions for farmers and livestock breeders to produce more efficiently, sustainably, and commercially. The goal is to increase local production, strengthen food security, stimulate economic activity, and gradually reduce Aruba's heavy reliance on food imports.

On September 18, the Council of Ministers approved the Cunucu Butucu project. With this decision, the Government has given the green light for the preparation and execution of the project.

The essence of the Cunucu Butucu project is to strengthen Aruba's primary sector by creating spaces where farmers and livestock breeders have land for local production. This means each participant will be allocated a plot of land in Cunucu Butucu. Additionally, the Government is investing in the infrastructure and facilities necessary to ensure suitable production conditions, including water supply, renewable energy, processing facilities, and better market access. Together, we are working to turn Cunucu Butucu into a strategic agricultural area that contributes to Aruba's food security and economic diversification.

The Cunucu Butucu project aligns with the priorities of the AVP-FUTURO 2025-2028 governing program to strengthen the primary sector, diversify the economy, and promote inclusive and sustainable economic development. The project serves as a valuable complement to the Agri-Innovation Park (AIP): while AIP focuses on technological cultivation, Cunucu Butucu will create space for traditional agriculture, livestock farming, processing, innovation, and market access.

It is a well-known fact that Aruba imports approximately 99% of all consumed food products. This dependency makes our country vulnerable to international crises, supply chain disruptions, and price increases. Furthermore, local farmers and livestock breeders face challenges such as a lack of suitable and affordable land, high costs for water and feed, limited market access, and a lack of technical support. The Cunucu Butucu project aims to address these challenges through a comprehensive and realistic plan developed in close collaboration with all relevant partners.

The Cunucu Butucu project includes, among other things:

• Research into the feasibility of a reliable and affordable water system, combined with the use and storage of rainwater;
• The generation of clean energy, including solar energy;
• Specific zoning for agriculture, livestock farming, and product processing;
• A composting center, a vermicomposting center, and a feed mill;
• A wholesale center for the sale of local products;
• A center for cooperation, training, and knowledge sharing, in partnership with DLVV Santa Rosa.

As a first step, the Cunucu Butucu Working Group will be established. The task of the working group is to coordinate preparation, monitor progress and ensure continuous dialogue with the sector.