Yadira Ramírez Morera, the wife of the Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, who accompanied him on the official delegation that recently visited Congo, marked her stay in Brazzaville with a series of visits and exchanges that included social and cultural activities, in the best style of a country's Second Ladies.
During her visit, she was accompanied by Aurélie Makoso, the wife of the Congolese Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makoso, as well as by the wives of other ministers.
According to information published by Tele Congo, Ramírez and her delegation began their parallel agenda to that of her husband at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, Arts and Leisure, where they were welcomed by Minister Marie-France Lydie Hélène Pongo.
During the meeting, the cultural ties between Cuba and Congo were highlighted, especially through music, with salsa and rumba serving as unifying elements between the two countries.
But beyond cultural diplomacy, Ramírez Morera visited several social institutions and delivered donations, a gesture that highlights the contradiction of the Cuban regime: while hospitals in Cuba are experiencing a severe shortage of supplies, and the population must face long lines to obtain food and medicine, the Cuban delegation distributes aid abroad.
One of the most striking points of his visit was the Maison des Seniors Kambissi in Filou, a shelter for the elderly managed by the Fundación Congo Assistance, where he delivered food and interacted with the residents. This act is ironic when compared to the reality in Cuba, where the elderly face precarious living conditions, insufficient pensions, and the inability to access adequate nutrition.
Then, the delegation moved to the National Reference Center for Sickle Cell Disease Antoinette Sassou Nguesso, where they delivered medications to support the treatment of anemia and cancer. Once again, the contrast is evident: in Cuba, hospitals are collapsing due to a lack of supplies, patients must turn to informal networks to obtain essential medications, and the lack of equipment has put the lives of thousands of Cubans at risk.
In addition to the social focus of her tour, Ramírez Morera visited the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial, a space dedicated to the historical memory of Brazzaville and its founders. At this location, she was welcomed by Binda Isa, the General Director of the memorial, who provided an explanation about the creation of the Congolese capital and its cultural legacy.
However, what is not mentioned in the official reports is the high cost of this trip and the stay in Brazzaville. According to independent Cuban media, the Prime Minister's wife is staying in a luxury five-star hotel, a reality that is far removed from that of Cuban citizens, who must survive on insufficient wages and face one of the worst economic crises in decades.
Ramírez Morera, who does not hold a government position, currently serves as the communications director of the Ministry of Tourism (Mintur), a sector closely linked to her husband Manuel Marrero, who was the minister of tourism before becoming the Prime Minister.
Her inclusion in the official delegation and her active participation in diplomatic and humanitarian activities abroad have been questioned, especially when considering the high cost of her presence at a time when Cuba is in crisis.
While the Cuban government insists that the lack of resources is a result of the U.S. embargo, it allocates funds for official trips that include luxurious accommodations and donations abroad. This stark contrast outrages many Cubans, who face the frustrating reality of scarcity on the island every day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yadira Ramírez's Visit to the Congo
What was the purpose of Yadira Ramírez's visit to the Congo?
The purpose of the visit was to participate in diplomatic and humanitarian activities alongside the Cuban delegation. Yadira Ramírez, wife of the Cuban Prime Minister, engaged in social and cultural activities, including the distribution of food and medicine in institutions in Congo.
Why has Yadira Ramírez's stay in the Congo been criticized?
The stay has been criticized for its luxury and associated expenses, in contrast to the severe economic crisis in Cuba. The choice of a five-star hotel and Ramírez's unofficial role in the activities have sparked controversy over the use of resources during times of need on the island.
What activities did Yadira Ramírez participate in during her visit to Congo?
Yadira Ramírez participated in social and cultural activities, including visits to social and cultural institutions in the Congo. She highlighted the donation of food to a shelter for the elderly and medicines to a medical center, actions that stand in stark contrast to the scarcity in Cuba.
What impact does Yadira Ramírez's visit have on Cuba-Congo relations?
The visit aims to strengthen cultural and cooperative ties between Cuba and Congo. Through joint activities and the provision of aid, the historical links between both countries were highlighted, although there has also been debate regarding Ramírez's role in the official delegation.
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