In what many residents are calling a “temporary miracle,” President Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero visited an agricultural market in Ciego de Ávila on Friday that, against all odds, appeared well-stocked and offered products at remarkably low prices.
The official visit was covered by local media, including the newspaper Girón, and showcased the highest authorities of the country walking among shelves filled with root vegetables, fruits, and vegetables, in a scene that starkly contrasted with the usual shortages faced by most agricultural markets on the island.
The prices, also unusually low, caught the attention not only of attendees but also of social media users who quickly made ironic remarks about the "logistical magic" that accompanies each government visit.
"Today there is indeed sweet potato, banana, and even malanga... all because they are there," commented a local resident, who claimed that the market "is usually empty or has prices that no one can afford."
Although the visit was enthusiastically reported by the official media, comments expressing skepticism multiplied on platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
Numerous internet users pointed out that this type of logistical deployment only occurs when national leaders are present, and that prices and supply return to normal — that is, to scarcity — as soon as they leave.
"Miracle for a day. That's something anyone could do. Let them come unannounced to see what they find," wrote a user, summarizing the sentiment of many.
The visit takes place in a context marked by increasing citizen discontent due to soaring inflation, a decline in agricultural production, and the lack of sustained policies to ensure access to basic food items.
In many provinces, the population has reported the limited availability in state markets, the constant rise in prices of products, and the impact of shortages on family nutrition.
Despite the official announcements regarding municipal self-sufficiency programs and new productive strategies, the visible results remain limited.
For many Cubans, the filled agricultural area in Ciego de Ávila during the presidential visit was merely a temporary setup that does not reflect the daily reality of most regions in the country.
Frequently asked questions about Díaz-Canel and Marrero's visit to Ciego de Ávila
Why is Díaz-Canel and Marrero's visit to Ciego de Ávila seen as a "temporary miracle"?
The visit of Díaz-Canel and Marrero to Ciego de Ávila is seen as a "temporary miracle" because the agricultural market was unusually well-stocked and prices were low, which contrasts with the usual scarcity in Cuban markets. Residents and social media users have expressed skepticism, noting that this situation only occurs during official visits and that prices and supplies return to normal after their departure.
What is the citizen perception of the Cuban government's management of food supply issues?
The public perception is one of skepticism and distrust towards the Cuban government's management of food supply. Despite official announcements regarding productive strategies and self-sufficiency programs, the visible results are limited, and scarcity conditions persist in much of the country. Official visits are often seen as staged events that do not reflect daily reality.
What challenges does the agricultural sector in Cuba face according to the provided context?
The agricultural sector in Cuba faces multiple challenges, such as aging machinery, a lack of fertilizers and supplies, restrictions on small private producers, inflation, and logistical difficulties. These limitations have resulted in significant declines in the production of essential foods, exacerbating the food crisis in the country.
How do Cuban citizens react to the government's optimistic statements amid the crisis?
Cuban citizens react with indignation and skepticism to the government's optimistic statements, especially when they contrast with a reality of scarcity and high prices. Empty promises and the lack of real solutions generate discontent, and many believe that the government is disconnected from the needs of the people.
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