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The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) will send a new package of humanitarian aid to Cuba, which will include food kits, hygiene products, and solar panels, aimed at alleviating the basic needs of thousands of people amid the energy crisis currently affecting the island.
According to an official statement, the aid includes 1,000 food and hygiene kits, aimed at meeting the basic needs of approximately 5,000 people. Additionally, the program plans to send between 15 and 20 solar panels, which will be installed in schools or centers for the elderly, potentially benefiting around 20,000 people.
The initiative will be complemented by the activation of the AECID Emergency Agreement with the Spanish Red Cross, valued at 160,000 euros, to strengthen humanitarian assistance in the country.
The kits will be purchased from small local cooperatives in Cuba, a measure aimed at supporting national production and the local economy.
Humanitarian crisis on the island
Aid arrives in a context of worsening humanitarian situation in Cuba, marked by a deep energy and economic crisis. The shortage of fuel and prolonged blackouts have impacted the functioning of essential services and critical infrastructure in the country.
International organizations have warned that the lack of energy has hindered the functioning of the healthcare system, to the extent that only about 500 health centers remain operational for emergencies.
Additionally, millions of Cubans face difficulties accessing drinking water and sanitation services, while around 4.5 million people are at risk of food insecurity.
The energy crisis has worsened in recent months due to changes in oil supply to the island and geopolitical tensions in the region, which have intensified blackouts and resource shortages.
More international assistance
This new package adds to another aid recently announced by Spain amounting to one million euros, aimed at supporting food programs and basic health supplies through international organizations.
The measure is part of international cooperation efforts to alleviate the hardships faced by the Cuban population amidst one of the worst economic and energy crises in recent decades.
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