State Secretary Eric van der Burg visited Saba on November 11 and 12, 2026, for a two-day official working visit focused on government cooperation, infrastructure development, renewable energy, housing, water security, and other matters important to the island's development.
During the visit, the State Secretary met with the Executive Council, consisting of Island Governor Jocelyn Levenstone, Commissioner Bruce Zagers, Commissioner Eviton Heyliger, and Island Secretary Bram Streppel to discuss Saba's development priorities, ongoing initiatives, and matters concerning cooperation with the Netherlands. Among the key topics addressed were the Black Rocks Harbor Project, electricity and renewable energy, housing development, water security, and border control.
Discussions included an update on the Black Rocks Harbor Project, covering construction progress and its importance to Saba's long-term infrastructure development. Attention was also given to the island's electricity supply and plans to expand renewable energy production through further investment in solar energy, with developments anticipated in 2028.
Water security was another important area of discussion, particularly following the record-breaking drought experienced in 2026. Efforts to strengthen water production and distribution capacity were addressed, with improvements anticipated in 2027 to better prepare the island for extended dry periods and limited rainfall.
The meeting also covered housing development, including the Housing Action Plan signed in 2023 and ongoing efforts to increase affordable housing opportunities on Saba, with plans for the potential construction of seven additional homes. Challenges surrounding border control and security were also raised, emphasizing the need for continued cooperation in addressing these concerns.
Beyond these discussions, the State Secretary met with Island Secretary Bram Streppel and three domain managers to exchange perspectives on administrative priorities, ongoing projects, and challenges, as well as measures introduced to improve internal operations and ways of working.
The program also provided an opportunity for members of the Saba Youth Council to share their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing young people on the island. Discussions focused on access to higher education in the European Netherlands, language barriers, limited opportunities for competitive sports, and the importance of involving young people in decisions that affect them. Council members also shared their positive experiences with youth-led initiatives, including their podcast and community service activities, reflecting their commitment to representing and contributing to the Saban community.
In addition to the meetings, the State Secretary and his delegation visited the Black Rocks Harbor Project, where representatives of the Public Entity Saba, contractor Ballast Nedam, and supervising engineering firm Witteveen+Bos provided an update on construction progress and the logistical challenges involved. Project Manager Peter Biemond outlined the progress of the breakwater, where work has reached approximately 300 meters, with 50 meters remaining. The delegation also learned about the sourcing and transportation of construction materials from neighboring islands, including the production of large X-blocs on Sint Eustatius, which will form part of the breakwater's protective outer layer.
The briefing also addressed future landside development, including the preparation of a master plan to guide development around the harbor while ensuring that the new infrastructure complements Saba's natural surroundings. Saba has also received €1.1million in funding toward the development of a harbor building, representing an additional investment in the infrastructure needed to support the new harbor.
The delegation also visited Hell's Gate Farm, where discussions focused on local agricultural development, food security, and efforts to strengthen local food production. Attention was also given to the weekly market, which provides residents with access to locally grown vegetables at more affordable prices, helping to reduce food costs while supporting local agriculture.
The working visit provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on Saba's ongoing development and reinforced the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation with the Dutch government in addressing the island's priorities and supporting its long-term sustainability.
