Renovation of historic building on Zoutmanstraat completed
ORANJESTAD – The official handover of Zoutmanstraat 1 recently took place.
Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister of Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Care, Mervin Wyatt-Ras, received the fully restored historic building.
Prime Minister Eman stated that it is fitting for the Department of Elderly Affairs to move into the building, as it represents an essential part of the island’s history. In the past, Fort Zoutman was one of Aruba’s first administrative offices, and housed customs, police, civil registry services, and even the court and parliament. After significant development and modernization, the government completed the building at Zoutmanstraat 1 and relocated most of the administrative offices there.
It is now the Department of Elderly Affairs’ turn to occupy this historic building. It also highlights the value the department places on preserving cultural heritage. The Monuments Bureau oversaw the process up to completion.
Prime Minister Eman expressed his appreciation to everyone who contributed to the project, particularly those responsible for ensuring that the building retained its authentic character.