The visit started at the harbour, a vital lifeline for the island. It plays an important role in crisis situations, especially during hurricanes, and supports food security through weekly supply deliveries. The harbour also creates opportunities for developing a Blue Economy and strengthening self-reliance.
Discussions highlighted the urgent need to repair, reinforce and raise the breakwater. Even mild weather can disrupt docking, leading to shortages in grocery supplies. This shows how vulnerable the harbour is. In response, the Statia Government has started key upgrades, including paving the container yard, improving biosecurity, and installing connections for refrigerated containers.
The delegation also visited the cliff stabilisation project, which aims to protect the island’s historic landscape from further erosion. This was followed by a visit to the ‘XBloc’ production facility. These large, X-shaped concrete blocks are produced locally as part of a collaboration between Statia and Saba. Both islands are sharing knowledge to improve harbour infrastructure. Producing these blocks locally for Saba, and possibly for Statia, is a positive step forward.
Commissioner Leerdam said: “Our harbour is more than infrastructure. It supports our food supply, emergency response and economic future. Strengthening it means strengthening our resilience.”
The visit ended with a meeting with local “Made in Statia” farmers. This initiative supports food security and sustainable economic growth. The State Secretary noted the progress being made and the importance of combining stronger harbour infrastructure with increased local food production. This will help build a more climate-resilient and self-reliant community.
