About us
DCALFA is a regional initiative co-designed by the six Dutch Caribbean islands and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) to strengthen cooperation across agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors.
Its members include the governments and public entities of Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint, Eustatius, Saba, and Sint Maarten. RVO fulfills the secretariat role, with support from the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).
Our Mission
Our Vision
The Dutch Caribbean Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Alliance (DCALFA) is dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing livestock health and productivity, and ensuring the responsible management of fisheries in the Dutch Caribbean. We aim to support local farmers, livestock owners, fishers and local communities through education, innovation, and collaboration, fostering a resilient and prosperous primary sector that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship.
We envision a thriving and sustainable agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sector in the Dutch Caribbean that serves as a model for food security, community well-being and ecological balance. Through concerted efforts and strategic partnerships, DCALFA aspires to lead the way in sustainable practices, driving innovation and resilience against climate change, while preserving the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of our islands.
What We Do
DCALFA supports the agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sectors in the Dutch Caribbean through a multifaceted approach
Advocacy and Policy
We advocate for policies and regulations that support sustainable agriculture, livestock management, and fisheries, ensuring that the voices of local stakeholders are heard.
Education and Training
We foster integration of agriculture and fisheries into school curricula and vocational training institutes to equip local farmers, fishers, livestock owners and especially youth, with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable practices.
Communication and Awareness Raising
We actively raise awareness through (social) media campaigns, workshops, and public forums to promote sustainable agriculture, livestock and fisheries. This ensures that key messages reach the wider public and drive positive behavioural change.
Research and Innovation
We collaborate with research institutions, students and experts to develop and implement innovative solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability.
Community Engagement
We engage with local communities, farmer and fisher organizations to promote awareness of sustainable practices, health benefits of consuming fresh local food and the importance of preserving our natural resources.
Project Collaboration and Networking
We collaborate in projects aimed at the responsible management of land, water, and marine resources, and improved access to finance and nutritious local food. We also build strong networks among stakeholders to exchange knowledge, foster partnerships that drive innovation and development in the primary sectors of agriculture, fisheries, and livestock.
What We Want to Achieve
Enhanced Food Security
Improve food security for the Dutch Caribbean by increasing local production, regional trade and reducing dependence on long-distance imports.
Economic Growth
Drive economic growth by supporting local producers and building robust value chains that create opportunities for income generation and employment.
Youth Empowerment
Empower the youth with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities to become active participants and future leaders in the agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sectors.
Sustainable Development
Achieve sustainable development in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
Community Resilience
Build resilient farming and fishing communities that are well-equipped to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Our Background Story
Originally launched as the “Dutch Caribbean Visioning Process” in March 2022, the initiative was spearheaded by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature (LVVN). The goal was to strengthen cooperation among the islands and create a platform capable of formulating a strategic plan to ensure food security and foster economic growth in each island’s primary sector.
After several virtual meetings to discuss common challenges, the committee met in Curaçao in 2022, followed by a second meeting in Aruba in 2023. These discussions culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Aruba, formalizing the collaboration between the islands. In May 2024, during a meeting in Sint Eustatius, the initiative was officially renamed the Dutch Caribbean Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Alliance (DCALFA). This meeting also saw the launch of the alliance’s official logo, symbolizing the united efforts of the six Dutch Caribbean islands to address shared challenges in agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
The Alliance serves as a regional platform for sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, working in concert with local governments, private sector stakeholders, and knowledge institutions. DCALFA’s long-term goal is to strengthen food security, boost the economic viability of small-scale farmers and fishers, and support sustainable fishing practices across its member territories. The secretariat is currently managed by RVO under the directive of LVVN.
