Since 2019, the Cuban community in Nicaragua has been steadily increasing, and according to testimonies from migrants, the flow could rise in the coming years, driven by the visa exemption that has been in effect since 2021 and the lack of opportunities on the island.
Imilsi Ramírez and Yovana Hernández are part of this migration wave. They arrived a few months ago with their families and today they sell bread with lechón (also known as pork) in the Altamira area of the Nicaraguan capital.
They accomplished this after investing their savings and, in some cases, selling all their belongings in Cuba to afford tickets costing up to $1,500.
This was reflected in a report by the television network VOS TV, which showed how Cubans escaped from the island in search of a better life and are finding ways to move forward through various ventures in the Central American land of lakes and volcanoes.
The social networks created by Ramírez on Facebook and WhatsApp have become spaces for consultation for Cubans interested in emigrating. They ask about employment, legalization, and living costs, hoping to bring their families and settle down permanently.
In Managua, the opportunities for entrepreneurship surpass those of other cities, although rental and living costs are higher.
According to the source, some neighborhoods have gathered dozens of Cubans, and their businesses aim to preserve the original flavor of the island's cuisine thanks to ingredients that are more accessible than those in Cuba.
The restaurant "Q Rico Asere," owned by Aldo Góngora Milanés, is an example of achievable success. Opened two years ago in Barrio Cuba, it started with a minimal investment and has reinvented itself several times to remain profitable, inspiring other migrants.
Experts such as immigration consultant Lorena Vargas warn that this economic potential could be enhanced if the Nicaraguan government were to implement an extraordinary regularization plan for Cubans, granting them temporary or permanent residency and facilitating their fiscal and commercial contributions to the country.
Meanwhile, the ability for many to remain will depend on Nicaragua maintaining its visa-free entry, a benefit that has become an escape route for hundreds of families facing a Cuba whose multisystemic crisis and authoritarian political regime that suppress criticism of its failed management continue to drive its citizens away.
It is common for Cubans to lean towards the business of selling food to start their ventures.
In November 2024, in a video posted on TikTok, Góngora shared his moving story of overcoming challenges through a family business that started by selling roast pork sandwiches and desserts on the streets.
With faith and perseverance, he gradually made progress: he acquired better tools, brought his family together, and received support from friends who contributed with donations, such as an umbrella and shirts featuring the logo of his business, "Q’Rico Asere."
In addition to building a thriving business, Góngora showed his generosity by sharing food and drinks with children at a traffic light, reflecting his commitment to the community.
Jans Plasencia García is another young Cuban making his way in Managua by selling traditional pork sandwiches, which have been well received by the locals, reported the network VOS TV.
Plasencia, a professional chef from Cuba, dreams of opening his own restaurant in Nicaragua dedicated to the cuisine of his homeland.
He shared that among his clients are his fellow countrymen who enjoy his products, driven primarily by nostalgia.
Two Cuban women residing in Tampa, Florida, who have only been living in the United States for two years, took the plunge to set up a food truck, an experience that they have shared on social media to inspire other fellow countrymen.
One of them, who also serves as the "host" in each episode published on TikTok (@lacalientefoodtruck), explained that this story is about overcoming challenges: “With just two years in the United States, we started our own food truck business in Tampa.”
In Louisville, Kentucky, some Cubans have drawn attention by selling homemade tamales for two dollars.
Frequently asked questions about the migration of Cubans to Nicaragua
Why are Cubans emigrating to Nicaragua?
The emigration of Cubans to Nicaragua has intensified due to the lack of economic opportunities and the multisystemic crisis in Cuba. The visa-free access to Nicaragua since 2021 has facilitated this migratory flow, making it a viable option for those seeking better living conditions.
What type of businesses are Cubans opening in Nicaragua?
Cubans in Nicaragua are primarily opening food businesses, such as selling pork sandwiches and restaurants, taking advantage of the availability of ingredients they cannot find in Cuba. These ventures aim to preserve the original flavor of Cuban cuisine.
How are social media helping Cubans in Nicaragua?
Social media has served as a consultation platform for Cubans interested in emigrating to Nicaragua. Through Facebook and WhatsApp, migrants share information about employment, legalization, and the cost of living, making the settlement process easier for those who wish to establish themselves in the country.
What challenges do Cubans face when starting a business in Nicaragua?
Cubans face high rental and living costs in Managua, which poses an additional challenge when starting their businesses. However, the city offers more opportunities for entrepreneurship compared to other locations, which has encouraged many to give it a try.
What is the potential impact of Cubans on the Nicaraguan economy?
The potential impact of Cubans on the Nicaraguan economy could be significant if the government were to implement an extraordinary regularization plan. This would allow Cubans to obtain temporary or permanent residence, facilitating their fiscal and commercial contribution to the country.
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