Saba News News and Information from Saba Island, Dutch Caribbean
- May 6, 2026
PUBLIC AUCTION of 2 parcels of land with buildings and all appurtenances belonging thereto
NOTARY OFFICE ST. EUSTATIUS & SABA PUBLIC AUCTION ON SABA ON JULY 7, 2026 Ex article 3:268 Civil Code On July 7, 2026, at 10am, at Notary Office Sint Eustatius & Saba, Coble Stone Road 3-A, The Bottom, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands, (NOTARY@STATIASABA.COM) Ms. M.D. Bouterse LL.M, civil law notary, shall, on instruction of the bank, proceed with the public sale of the following immovable properties: a parcel of land on Saba, in the district of Windwardside, having an area 556m², cadaster code C/A 6/2000; and a parcel of land on Saba, in the district of Windwardside, having an area of 786m², cadaster code 9/1982; with a building on it and all appurtenances belonging thereto. Reserve price: USD 352,000.00 (three hundred and fifty-two thousand United States Dollars). The properties cannot be purchased separately. On YouTube you will find a video of the properties. https://youtu.be/5zGkoY984xI Private offers in writing can be made for purchasing the properties. You can acquire a bid form to that effect at our office. Such an offer can be made by emailing the form to notary@statiasaba.com, up to and including June 14th, 2026, at the latest at 16:00 hrs (4 pm). Any offer not accepted before June 21st, 2026, is automatically declined. The auction will take place by raising bids (in Dutch: “bij opbod”) and by decreasing bids (in Dutch: “bij afmijning”) in one session. The seller is entitled to not accept any bid, at his sole discretion. The general conditions of auction are applicable. All auction costs are for the account of the buyer. The successful bidder must submit a bank guarantee, issued by a bank that is supervised by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten or the Nederlandse Bank and acceptable to the seller, to the amount of the highest bid augmented by the auction costs, or proof that he has the funds available in his bank account. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT US VIA EMAIL: NOTARY@STATIASABA.COM Notary Office St. Eustatius and Saba, Coble Stone Road #3-A, The Bottom, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands, Phone: +1-721-528 8884 +599-319 1782 or +599-4162700.
- May 6, 2026
The Tourist Bureau asks support for a survey
As part of an internship currently ongoing at the Saba Tourist Bureau, we are kindly asking residents to fill out this survey on your experiences related to tourism on the island. Your feedback is important to us! This survey invites residents to share their perceptions of tourism, its impacts, and how it can be improved. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you may choose not to take part or stop at any time. The purpose of this survey is to gather insights into resident satisfaction, tourism impacts, and future development. Your responses will contribute to the development of recommendations to support sustainable tourism and improve the overall experience for residents on Saba. All responses are anonymous and will be treated with confidentiality. The information collected will be used for academic purposes only and may be included in reports, presentations, or publications. However, no personal information will be used, and your responses cannot be linked to you. I am currently studying International Tourism Management. As part of my internship at the Saba Tourist Bureau, I am conducting a research project on residents’ perceptions of tourism on Saba. Start the survey HERE. Sue-yenne Ryner
- May 6, 2026
Memorial Day Observed on Saba
On Monday, May 4, Saba honored the lives lost during World War II at its annual Memorial Day observance. Held under this year’s theme, “Lest We Forget,” the ceremony called upon us to remember the vast impacts of war and the importance of upholding peace. The event, organized by Policy Advisor Shaigan Marten of the Department of Community Development and Culture, opened with a moving drum performance by the Riddim Nation Youth Drum Band, followed by an opening prayer delivered by Pastor Liburd. The Saba Comprehensive School (SCS) Youth Choir performed a musical tribute, after which members of the Saba Leos read aloud the names of war victims born on Saba. Students of SCS also recited the poem “Saba Remembers” by M.K. Authors, adding a heartfelt reflection to the ceremony. Island Governor Jonathan Johnson addressed attendees, emphasizing the significance of remembrance, stating, “We gather not simply because history asks it of us, but because remembrance is a duty. We remember because freedom was never guaranteed. Peace was never freely given. Both have been secured, again and again, through sacrifice, courage, and profound loss.” Governor Johnson further noted, “In a world where conflict and division still exist, Dodenherdenking calls upon us to remain vigilant. It asks us to stand firmly for humanity, to choose understanding over prejudice, and to recognize that peace must be nurtured every day.” Recognition was also given to firefighters and their enduring service, in observance of International Firefighter’s Day. A wreath-laying ceremony followed, allowing participants an opportunity to pay their respects. At 2:00 p.m., the gathering observed two minutes of silence in remembrance of those whose lives were lost. This moment coincided with the commemoration in the Netherlands, where silence is observed at 8:00 p.m. (NL time), during a national ceremony at Dam Square in Amsterdam. Also in attendance were members of the Health, Welfare and Sport Committee of the Second Chamber, as part of their working visit to Saba. The ceremony concluded with the sounding of sirens by members of the Korps Politie Caribisch Nederland, giving a solemn close to the observance. PES
During the Central Committee and Island Council meeting held on April 21, 2026, several key topics were discussed, including road safety, cost of living, border security, and the proposed Language Policy for Saba. Language Policy The proposed Language Policy, developed by the Department of Community Development and Culture, is a multiannual plan that recognizes language as an essential tool for promoting inclusion, dignity, and justice on Saba. It also seeks to establish a structured framework for language instruction and support across the island. The policy emphasizes the importance of multilingualism, incorporates cultural input, and outlines goals to expand multilingual proficiency. While it maintains a strong focus on Dutch language instruction and education, it also recognizes Saban English as an essential part of the island’s cultural identity. Council members raised several questions, particularly regarding the role of technology in language education and existing deficiencies in Dutch instruction. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to allow for further feedback, after which the policy will be presented again at a future Island Council meeting. During the Island Council meeting, the members brought forward various topics. ICM Rolando Wilson Island Council Member Rolando Wilson raised several issues, including the expansion of the Island Council and the logistical considerations for accommodating additional members. Commissioner Bruce Zagers explained that these factors have been taken into account and the support needed from the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations to move forward has been secured. Wilson further highlighted concerns about noise pollution, especially from scooters. Island Governor Jonathan Johnson indicated that he is addressing this issue as part of his ongoing discussions with the police and the Prosecutor’s Office. ICM Wilson also asked what solutions are in place to address the high cost of living, calling for measures to provide relief to residents, and he emphatically expressed his desire for every Saban, particularly young Sabans, to be able to own their own homes in the future. ICM Elsa Peterson Island Council Member Elsa Peterson called attention to a motion that was unanimously passed three years ago focused on creating a policy for student support related to tuition and housing that could not be funded by typical student financing. Commissioner Eviton Heyliger announced that the next ICM will present this policy after finalizing and reviewing the necessary budgetary adjustments. Additionally, while acknowledging the dedication and care of childcare staff, ICM Peterson raised growing concerns about the current lack of capacity at Absolute Childcare. Commissioner Heyliger assured that the organization has hired eight new staff members to fill the positions. ICM Peterson also raised road safety as a major concern. In response, Commissioner Zagers stated that they had conducted a risk analysis, which identified several high-risk areas. Planned improvements include road widening, the installation of sidewalks, and enhanced lighting near the Arawak Hotel, with work expected to begin before the summer. ICM Vito Charles Island Council Member Vito Charles focused on mobility, infrastructure, and connectivity. He inquired about the status of the mobility plan, including parking and road safety measures, stating that mobility needs to be given more attention, given the recent increase in traffic on the island, and more should be done to mitigate this. Efforts are ongoing to improve connectivity, including discussions with operators to create additional routes, though cooperation from border control remains necessary. Charles also referenced the $30 million recently allocated to the BES islands, and the need for collaboration among the councils and, more broadly, among the three islands to effectively access and utilize available funding. ICM Saskia Matthew Island Council Member Saskia Matthew raised concerns about response times from the Executive Council and the effectiveness of communication regarding plans and projects to the public. She also referenced the high cost of living and inquired about the progress of the price transparency decree, with Commissioner Zagers noting that most businesses on the island are aligned with the requirements. Border security and harbor safety remained significant matters for ICM Matthew, referencing previous discussions by the councils on enhancing security and technology at the ports of entry, specifically measures that the local government could implement. Commissioner Zagers highlighted the challenges of monitoring incoming cargo, particularly without commercial scanners, and noted that both the current and new harbor are being assessed to determine how monitoring can be improved. In addition, Island Governor Johnson referenced a joint letter submitted by the BES islands on February 9, 2026, noting that the matter of border security has received attention at the level of the Second Chamber and calling for the Island Council to maintain focus on this issue. Matthew also requested that an execution plan for the governing program be clearly communicated to the Island Council and the public. Commissioner Zagers indicated that this plan will be presented at the next Island Council meeting. PES
- May 4, 2026
Joint Court of Justice Issues Interim Ruling in SEC vs. Sunshine Real Estate Solar Park Dispute
BES reporter writes that the Joint Court of Justice has issued a new interim ruling in the ongoing legal dispute between Saba Electric Company (SEC) and contractor Sunshine Real Estate (SRE) regarding the construction of the solar park on Saba. The case dates back to 2019. It centers on whether the foundation piles of the solar park were installed correctly and, specifically, whether they should have been drilled or driven into the ground. The Court has previously ruled in favor of SRE’s position that pile driving was the agreed-upon method, noting that SEC appeared to have accepted the construction method during the building process. The Court of Justice has now announced the appointment of an independent expert to assess whether the solar park meets hurricane-resistance requirements. Both parties have until 14 May 2025 to submit their comments on the choice of expert and the research questions to be posed. The Court has reiterated that the burden of proof rests with SEC. Should the expert investigation leave significant uncertainty unresolved, this may weigh against SEC’s position. Meanwhile, SEC has already opted to pre-finance repairs to the foundations at a cost of $950,000 USD in order to restore the solar park to operation before year-end. The case is still pending, and the expert investigation is expected to be decisive for the final outcome. Solar magazine
Customers of RBC Royal Bank on Saba have reported ongoing issues with bank transfers to accounts at other financial institutions, raising concerns among residents and businesses on the island. According to multiple customers who contacted BES-Reporter, funds transferred from RBC accounts are being deducted but are not consistently reaching their intended destination at other banks. The issue is said to be affecting both individuals and businesses, some of whom rely on accounts at MCB Bank for payments and credit facilities. Saba’s limited banking landscape adds to the impact, as RBC is the only bank with a physical presence on the island. Several customers indicated that delayed or missing transfers have led to concerns about late payments, including mortgages and business obligations. Lack of communication Customers also report a lack of clear communication regarding the situation. Despite repeated inquiries, no formal update or guidance has been provided to account holders on Saba. RBC has not issued a public statement on the matter. The BES-Reporter.
- May 4, 2026
Thirty Seniors from Saba visits Statia
On the morning of Monday, April 27th, around 6:30am, a group of thirty (30) senior citizens from Life Center’s seniors came to the island on a boat trip to St. Eustatius. The seniors arrived on the island on board the MV Makana Ferry Service. The group left Saba around 5:00am and arrived on the island after 6:00am. The group included 3 well-known nurses that works at the hospital as well as many other well-known persons, such as famous steel band player Sorton, and Father Simon Wilson and others. The seniors were seen at the Old Gin House having a delicious healthy breakfast. The group were able to tour the historical island, visit the activities being held on the island, such as kite hoisting at Zeelandia, visiting the Fort de Windt where they could enjoy majestic views. The group returned the same day to Saba on the Makana Ferry. The organisers said that it was a joy to welcome the sister island of Saba seniors who have given their best for their island and extended their wishes to the seniors for continued health. The Daily Herald.
Saba Cares marked an important ceremonial milestone in the development of its future care campus during a visit to The Bottom by Minister of Long-term Care, Youth and Sport, Mirjam Sterk. The visit included an extensive tour of Building B and the current medical center. The ceremonial moment centered on Building A, which has been in use since September 2025 as the administration and staff building of Saba Cares. The ceremony reflected the continued progress of a broader, phased development that is intended to strengthen healthcare and elderly care services on Saba for the long term. Phased development of the Saba Cares campus The full development of the new Saba Cares complex consists of three parts: Building A, Building B and Building C. Building A is already operational and supports the administrative and organizational functions of Saba Cares. Building B is currently nearing completion and will be delivered in two parts. Building C is expected to be completed in late 2027 or early 2028 and will ultimately house the permanent new nursing home. Once completed, the facility will include three residential living groups, providing accommodation for 24 residents requiring 24-hour care. In addition to the nursing home, the full care complex will feature a restaurant, activity center, quiet room, and 17 assisted-living apartments. The project reflects a shared ambition to create care infrastructure that is both sustainable and responsive to the future healthcare needs of Saba. Collaboration The development of the new care campus has been made possible through close cooperation between Saba Cares, the Public Entity Saba, the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport, and other involved stakeholders. “Today marks an important ceremonial milestone for Saba Cares and for the island. It reflects the dedication, trust, and close collaboration of all partners who have worked together to move this development forward. Above all, it represents our shared long-term commitment to ensuring that the people of Saba can receive care in an environment that is safe, dignified, compassionate, and truly feels like home,” said Nadya van Putten, Supervisory Board Chairperson of Saba Cares Foundation. “I am very pleased to see the progress achieved in strengthening healthcare on Saba. Every resident deserves access to safe, high-quality care nearby. This new facility reflects our shared commitment to providing dignified care for the elderly and supporting the future of healthcare on the island,” added Minister Mirjam Sterk, RCN
Freedom will be celebrated across the Caribbean part of the Dutch Kingdom on 5 May. On Curaçao, a Freedom Meal will be held at Fort Amsterdam, featuring a performance by the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra and a chance to speak with the governor over dinner. On Bonaire, hundreds of residents will gather for a community meal, while Saba will host no fewer than six Freedom Meals spanning the length and breadth of the island , from the schools to a home for the elderly, with a sit-down meal open to all ages. Together, these events reflect the many ways freedom is celebrated across the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. All of Saba joins in Saba’s six Freedom Meals will bring young and old together to share a meal and conversation. Alongside the food, visitors can watch films about the Second World War in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, while trilingual dialogue cards will help spark meaningful exchanges between generations. All Freedom Meals in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands are listed on the Freedom Meal Map. The Freedom Meals are an initiative of the National Committee for 4 and 5 May, in association with Vfonds. About the National Committee for 4 and 5 May The National Committee for 4 and 5 May is responsible for shaping and sustaining the commemoration and celebration of the Second World War in the Netherlands. It organizes national events on 4 and 5 May, as well as educational projects, public information campaigns, and applied research, working alongside a broad network of local, provincial, and national partners. National Committee 4en5mei.nl
Prime Minister Rob Jetten will visit St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, Aruba and Curaçao from 8 to 14 May 2026. It will be Mr Jetten’s first visit to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in his capacity as prime minister. The fact that this visit is taking place at the start of his term of office highlights the importance the government attaches to strong, productive working relationships within the Kingdom. During the visit, Mr. Jetten will meet with all prime ministers, governors, and members of the States of Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Maarten, as well as the island executives and members of the island councils of Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. Subjects for discussion will include resilience, security, and sustainability. The visit will also encompass a varied program of meetings with residents, business owners, and civil society organizations. Saba On Sunday 10 May the prime minister will continue on to Saba. Here, he will visit the Saba Cares Nursing Home and speak with older residents about their lives there. He will also visit the St. John’s Enrichment Centre, a multifunctional community center being built between existing school buildings on the island. RCN
