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DCALFA at the Forefront of Food Security at “Taking the Reins” Conference in Sint Maarten

On January 30, 2025, DCALFA proudly participated in the high-level conference “Taking the Reins: Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten Driving Their Economic Future”, hosted in Sint Maarten and organized by TWO, EZ, and RVO. This landmark event brought together key stakeholders from across the Dutch Caribbean to explore strategic economic opportunities and challenges—placing food security high on the agenda.

Representing DCALFA at the Food Security Roundtable were Nathalie Maduro, Bernise Stoffer, and Shervin Frederick, each bringing unique insights and passion to the conversation. Their presence reinforced DCALFA’s critical role in enhancing food security through regional cooperation and strategic action.

DCALFA’s Contributions: A Collaborative Force

During the roundtable discussions, Mrs. Nathalie Maduro actively contributed to deliberations around the development of a proposed €24 million food security fund, emphasizing the importance of a long-term, cooperative vision. Alongside her, Bernise Stoffer and Shervin Frederick highlighted how DCALFA brings together representatives from all six Dutch Caribbean islands, cultivating a unique, family-like alliance built on mutual respect and diverse expertise.

Participants were enthusiastic to learn that DCALFA is far more than just a sectoral alliance—it is a regional movement for sustainable growth, combining agriculture, livestock, and fisheries with innovation, resilience, and shared purpose.

Key Themes Discussed

1. Collaboration: Cooperatives for Farmers

Empowering small-scale farmers through cooperatives was a central theme. By working together, farmers can reduce costs on essentials like seeds and fertilizers, and improve resilience through crop diversification. DCALFA was lauded for championing such models of community-driven agriculture.

2. Political Support

The importance of strong political frameworks was widely acknowledged. Discussions emphasized the need for supportive regulations and incentives, tailored to the unique agricultural landscapes of each island. DCALFA’s efforts to engage with policymakers to create an enabling environment were recognized as vital.

3. Data and Research

Accurate data is the backbone of effective policy. DCALFA’s collaboration with universities and research institutions enables evidence-based decision-making, including crop forecasting, market analysis, and agricultural sustainability studies. This was highlighted as a best practice for the region.

4. Access to Finance

One of the biggest hurdles for Caribbean farmers remains access to capital. DCALFA’s strategic push to work with financial institutions, including banks and microfinance initiatives, aims to provide tailored financing solutions that support both modern and sustainable farming methods.

Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations

The conference concluded with a clear consensus: regional collaboration is essential to secure a resilient and self-sustaining agricultural future. DCALFA was acknowledged as a linchpin in that effort, bridging islands, sectors, and institutions. Key recommendations moving forward include:

• Strengthening farmer cooperatives to build resilience
• Securing political commitment through smart policies and funding support
• Enhancing data-sharing and research partnerships with universities
• Expanding financial access through innovative funding models

Importantly, participants also called for stronger integration of economic affairs ministries into DCALFA’s governance – a step that could solidify the alliance’s economic strategy and impact.

DCALFA remains steadfast in its mission: to lead with strategy, foster unity, and promote a food-secure future for all Dutch Caribbean islands. As the momentum from this conference continues, we look forward to deeper collaboration, more inclusive policies, and a thriving Caribbean agricultural sector.

Together, we cultivate a sustainable future.