WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has recently added two new ambulances to its emergency services fleet, specially selected to navigate narrow city streets more quickly and efficiently, particularly in areas like Punda and Otrobanda. The new vehicles are part of a larger investment of 1.35 million guilders made in 2024 to upgrade and expand the fleet of the Fundashon Kuido Ambulans Kòrsou (FKAK). 

In total, three fully equipped ambulances were purchased to modernize the existing service. This expansion is a key component of a broader improvement plan aimed at the long-term professionalization of the island’s ambulance services. 

The initiative involves collaboration with entities such as the Stichting Overheidsaccountantsbureau (SOAB) and international advisory agencies. A comprehensive reform strategy has been developed focusing on organizational restructuring, medical quality, personnel management, financial stability, and the legal status of ambulance staff. 

One of the cornerstone steps in this process was the March 20, 2024 decision by the Council of Ministers to integrate ambulance personnel into a new executive agency under the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN). The implementation of this transition is already underway. 

To ensure a smooth and orderly process, specific conditions were included in the ministerial decree issued in August 2024 that granted FKAK a new operational license. 

During the transitional period, FKAK will continue to provide daily emergency care services while fully cooperating in the establishment of the new organizational structure.