Related videos:
The shortage of milk in Santiago de Cuba directly affects children between the ages of 2 and 6, who are left without receiving the product distributed through the rationing booklet.
Freya Elías Caraballo, the deputy mayor of the municipality, reported that so far the local Dairy Company has only distributed 20 days' worth of powdered milk for children aged 0 to 1 year, as reported by the state-run Sierra Maestra.
However, food for the elderly in that age group remains pending.
According to the authorities, the delivery will take place "in the coming days" as new shipments arrive in the territory. When this occurs, priority will be given to the chronically ill children, the note states.
The newspaper states that, amid the severe food access crisis on the island, a sealed package of 1 kg of donated rice is being distributed in the municipal headquarter to each consumer, corresponding to the months of May and June, at a rate of one pound per month.
In addition, those over 65 receive one can of sardines, while pregnant women receive four.
The World Food Programme (WFP) continues to distribute assistance packages to vulnerable families and pregnant women, which include 2 kg of rice, 1 kg of peas, and one liter of oil.
On the other hand, the management of UEB Cupet Comercializadora announced the start of the distribution of liquefied gas in Santiago de Cuba since August 15th.
The entity plans to extract 6,500 cylinders, with a minimum of 164 for each point of sale, prioritizing those with a higher number of customers and greater sociopolitical complexity.
The detailed schedule will be published exclusively on the company's official Telegram channel, while sales will be organized in cycles to ensure all consumers have access to the service.
The milk shortage is also affecting other provinces on the island. Camagüey, a former cattle producer, announced two weeks ago that milk production in that territory continues to decline sharply and that by 2025 it will end with a deficit of more than one million liters compared to the annual plan and also in comparison with 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Supply Crisis in Santiago de Cuba
Why is there no milk for children aged 2 to 6 in Santiago de Cuba?
Santiago de Cuba is facing a crisis in milk supply, affecting children between the ages of 2 and 6. The government has prioritized the distribution of powdered milk only for children aged 0 to 1 year, while the supply for those older than that is still pending. Authorities assure that the deliveries will take place in the coming days, but there are no specific dates yet.
What products are included in the regulated family basket in Santiago de Cuba?
The standard family basket in Santiago de Cuba includes basic products such as rice, sugar, oil, peas, and canned sardines. However, the distribution of these products is irregular due to logistical issues and shortages of supplies, which have caused significant delays in the delivery of essential food items.
How is the shortage of liquefied gas affecting the residents of Santiago de Cuba?
The shortage of liquefied gas has led to the complete suspension of its distribution in Santiago de Cuba, leaving many families without an essential means for cooking. Although it was promised that the supply was guaranteed, the reality is that there is no availability of gas, which has generated outrage and concern among residents.
What alternatives does the population have in the face of food and basic product shortages?
In the face of a shortage of food and basic products, the population relies on international donations and rationing. However, these donations are insufficient and do not reach the entire population. Authorities have implemented rotating distribution methods and prioritization for vulnerable groups, but the scarcity persists, forcing many families to seek alternatives in the black market.
Filed under: