WILLEMSTAD - The Otrobanda neighborhood stands on the brink of significant socio-economic changes, with a focus on the thriving hospitality and tourism sector. With the recent increase in investments, new opportunities for economic growth and social progress are emerging.
Through a collaborative effort of Kaya Kaya, Club17 Curaçao, Kolektivo, and the ESG Innovation Collective, the Otrobanda neighborhood is being supported. These organizations aim to help transform the neighborhood into a model district for sustainable urban development with their expertise and knowledge. "We invite all stakeholders to participate and contribute to a sustainable future for Otrobanda, while preserving the unique identity and livability of this neighborhood," said Juan Carlos Goilo (ESG Innovation Collective).
Community engagement and input
The initiative includes a series of dialogues involving the civil, private, and public sectors. Last week, on May 14th, the first brainstorming session with the civil sector took place. These sessions are crucial for identifying common goals and formulating an integrated approach to development. "The input of the community is essential to successfully realize this vision," said Kurt Schoop (Kaya Kaya). "In Otrobanda, we want to collaborate with all neighborhoods, only then will we know what is truly needed," added Arjen van der Meulen (BMG group, Kurá Hulanda).
Innovation and Monitoring
The collaboration between the ESG Innovation Collective, based on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, Club17 Curaçao, focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Kolektivo, forms a powerful foundation for benchmarking developments in Otrobanda. Together, they aim to integrate Otrobanda's developments into a comprehensive monitoring system that serves as a model for tracking urban development in Curaçao. This system is designed to meticulously monitor and evaluate the diverse impacts of development projects, integrating and monitoring economic, ecological, and social criteria. It can also evaluate ongoing projects based on the current needs of the neighborhood. "This system will also enable us to measure our progress and ensure maximum transparency," adds Lara Melkert (Club17 Curaçao).
Pilot and Potential for Expansion and Export
The collaboration between Club17 Curaçao, Kolektivo, and the ESG Innovation Collective, which underpins this system, serves as a pilot for Otrobanda. If successful, there is potential for expansion to other neighborhoods within Curaçao and other cities in the Caribbean region.
The initial results and feedback from these initiatives will be crucial for adjusting and optimizing the strategies that will shape Otrobanda. Otrobanda is a vibrant, thriving community gearing up for success in the 21st century and beyond.