In Havana, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced on Thursday that his government has secured the supply of essential subsidized food rations. This comes in response to widespread shortages that led to protests just two weeks ago.
During a mid-day TV newscast, Diaz-Canel highlighted the “enormous effort” undertaken by the government to ensure food supply for the island’s 11 million inhabitants. He expressed optimism for the months ahead, stating, “April and May are going to be months with better prospects,” reaffirming the government’s commitment to guaranteeing essential foods for the people.
Since Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution, Cuba has provided citizens with a monthly ration of staples like rice, beans, sugar, cooking oil, and coffee. However, deliveries have been reduced over the years due to economic challenges leading to shortages and high prices.
The recent shortages, along with extensive blackouts lasting 10-20 hours, prompted hundreds of protesters to take to the streets on March 17 in Santiago de Cuba, Bayamo, and Matanzas, areas traditionally supportive of the government.
Responding swiftly to the unrest, the government increased electricity generation, significantly reducing blackouts that have plagued the island for months and helping to calm the protests.
According to Oscar Pérez, vice minister of foreign trade, basic food items will be guaranteed until June. He assured that fundamental products like rice will be available until then, along with efforts to secure wheat flour for bread production and milk for children.
The monthly cost of Cuba’s food ration program amounts to $230 million, as reported during the newscast.
The country faces challenges in funding its social programs due to tough U.S. sanctions, an inefficient state-run economy, and a struggling tourism industry post-COVID-19.
Overall, the government aims to address food security concerns and stabilize the situation after the recent unrest, with a focus on ensuring essential supplies for the population in the coming months.
Through these efforts, Cuba seeks to navigate through economic difficulties and maintain stability while facing external pressures.
(Reporting by Dave Sherwood and Nelson Acosta; Editing by Nick Macfie)
