THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, recently attended and addressed a capacity-building programme at the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education.
The visit formed part of a five-day mission to the Netherlands focusing on circular-economy approaches and climate-resilient wastewater management. The mission brought together government officials, utility representatives, private-sector companies and World Bank specialists from Sint Maarten and Peru to exchange knowledge and explore practical solutions.
The initiative was organized by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), while the tailored training programme was coordinated by IHE Delft, the World Bank Group and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Peru, which also represents the Netherlands in Ecuador and Bolivia.
During the opening plenary session, Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell emphasized the importance of developing wastewater-management systems that are environmentally sustainable, economically viable and affordable, particularly for small island states such as Sint Maarten.
She underscored the need to account for Sint Maarten’s vulnerability to hurricanes, flooding and other extreme weather events when planning and investing in critical infrastructure.
“Resilience is not just about rebuilding what was there; it is also about building back resiliently,” Minister Arrindell told participants.
She emphasized that wastewater management is directly connected to public health, environmental protection, economic development and the preservation of Sint Maarten’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
Investments in modern wastewater infrastructure must therefore be designed to meet the country’s present needs while also preparing it for the effects of climate change.
Minister Arrindell welcomed the opportunity for Sint Maarten to participate in the international exchange of expertise and best practices, noting that collaboration with institutions such as IHE Delft and the World Bank can support the country’s efforts to strengthen its technical and institutional capacity.
The plenary session was also addressed by the Ambassador of Peru to the Netherlands, Her Excellency Franca Lorella Deza Ferreccio, who underscored that the transition toward circularity requires broad participation throughout society.
Following the opening session, participants attended specialized workshops covering financing and investment, water reuse, aquifer recharge, water governance, and the operation of large- and small-scale wastewater-treatment facilities.
The programme explored ways in which wastewater can be treated as a resource within a circular economy, including opportunities for water reuse and the recovery of valuable resources. These approaches could contribute to reducing environmental pressure, improving water security and strengthening climate resilience.
Minister Arrindell said Sint Maarten can benefit from solutions specifically designed for small islands, where limited land, financial resources and technical capacity require infrastructure that is practical, efficient and sustainable.
The programme also builds on earlier discussions between the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary and IHE Delft concerning water education, sustainable water management, knowledge exchange and potential collaboration involving students and technical experts.
IHE Delft has expressed its commitment to continuing its partnerships within the Caribbean and South America and to strengthening regional capacity in sustainable water and wastewater management.
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell reaffirmed the importance of fostering international partnerships that deliver practical and lasting benefits for the people of Sint Maarten.
“By connecting Sint Maarten with international knowledge institutions, development partners and experienced water-sector professionals, we can identify solutions that are appropriate for our island and contribute to a safer, healthier and more resilient country,” Minister Arrindell concluded.
Group photo including delegates from Peru, Sint Maarten, World Bank reps and Minister Plenipotentiary Sint Maarten Hon. Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell at the Delft Institute for Water Education.
