On the first day of her visit, the Secretary General met with the Executive Council and representatives of the NEPP team, economic affairs and tourism to discuss developments on Saba and challenges the local government is faced with. Among other things, discussions were held on the high costs of connectivity and living. The group also talked about the upcoming climate plan through which Saba aims to increase its self-sufficiency and climate resilience. Concerns were expressed by the Executive Council about how limited understanding for the local context from The Hague sometimes hampers effective improvement.
On Wednesday, the delegation visited the solar park, hosted by Saba Electric Company, and then met with representatives of SATEL. In the afternoon, the group visited the site of the upcoming Black Rocks Harbor as well as the location of the new solar park.
This visit was particularly significant as a dredge barge was present during the delegation’s visit. The barge will play a crucial role in the construction of a robust, hurricane-resistant breakwater, protecting the harbor and the vessels which will use it.
Additional meetings were held with the Saba Business Association, the Tourist Bureau, and a site visit to the tree nursery.
Overall, the visit featured several departments and organizations that push for the advance of sustainable development, highlighting the island’s continued focus on long-term climate resilience.
