PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Finance, Marinka J. Gumbs, wishes to inform the public of the progress made under the approved capital investment (CAPEX) program. The total funds received in 2023 amounted to XCG 60.8 million, allocated to strengthen critical infrastructure, modernize government operations, and support the country’s long-term development goals.
The CAPEX funds have been spent as follows:
- 2023: XCG 517,000 (1%)
- 2024: XCG 35.7 million (59%)
- 2025: XCG 8 million (13%)
- Remaining balance: XCG 16 million (approximately 26%)
The Minister of Finance highlighted that these investments have been distributed across several key ministries and strategic areas. Notable expenditures include:
- Ministry of General Affairs (AZ): Hardware and software upgrades to enhance digital efficiency and improve inter-ministerial connectivity.
- Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sport (ECYS): Investments in digital learning platforms and educational software to strengthen the quality of education and sport facilities.
- Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI): Continued investments in the improvement of public roads and infrastructure.
Minister Gumbs emphasized that these projects represent the Government’s ongoing commitment to modernization, transparency, and sustainable development. “Every guilder invested under the CAPEX program is directed toward strengthening our public institutions and improving the quality of life for the people of Sint Maarten,” the Minister stated.
In addition, for the year 2025, the Minister of Finance, Ms. Marinka Gumbs, has secured XCG 30 million in additional CAPEX funding to advance the country’s development agenda further. These funds, while already approved, have not yet been received. Once transferred, they will be directed toward priority projects as approved in the 2025 budget.
As of this quarter, approximately 26% of the total received funds remain available for ongoing and upcoming projects. The Minister, together with the Ministry of Finance, continues to monitor spending closely to make sure that every guilder is used responsibly and for the benefit of the people.
Minister Gumbs reaffirmed her commitment to keeping the public informed, stating, “Transparency in government spending is crucial to building public trust. We will continue to provide regular updates as these investments progress.”