The energy crisis in Cuba has led six Catalan municipalities to join forces to finance the installation of photovoltaic kits in health centres in Santiago de Cuba. This initiative, driven by the Fons Català de Cooperació al Desenvolupament and the Casal d’Amistat amb Cuba de Badalona, aims to ensure the operation of essential medical services amid the prolonged power cuts that the island suffers.
Critical impact on healthcare
The municipalities that have formalised their participation are Manresa, Caldes de Montbui, Celrà, Mollet del Vallès, Sant Adrià de Besòs, and Vilafranca del Penedès. So far, they have committed a total of 20,000 euros for this vital project. The funds will be specifically allocated to the installation of solar systems in Songo la Maya, where the only rural hospital in the municipality offers services such as emergency care and dialysis.
The energy situation in Cuba is alarming; power cuts can extend up to twenty hours a day, severely hindering the provision of basic services. This particularly affects critical areas such as vaccine preservation and essential medical processes like fetal monitoring and sterilisation.
“Power cuts severely hinder the provision of basic services,” say the organisers.
The Fons Català has pointed out that this crisis is exacerbated by the economic embargo imposed by the United States, which further limits the country's ability to import necessary resources. The current campaign is part of the ongoing effort of Catalan municipalities to collaborate with Cuba for over two decades.
Over the years, Catalan local governments have channelled significant economic aid through the Fons Català following various humanitarian emergencies and extreme weather events. Between 2021 and 2025, these initiatives mobilised over 105,000 euros, coming from both local administrations and private entities.
In light of this critical situation, the Fons Català has called on other municipalities and regional councils to join this humanitarian cause and expand the resources allocated to the solar project. The collaboration between Catalonia and Cuba not only represents economic aid; it also symbolises a solidarity commitment to a community facing significant challenges in its healthcare system.
As this campaign progresses, it becomes clear that the relations between Catalonia and Cuba are deep and rooted in a shared history marked by difficult moments. Since the beginning of the 21st century, Catalan local administrations have been actively involved in providing assistance during humanitarian crises in Cuba. This new effort reflects not only an immediate response to an urgent need but also a sustained commitment to social welfare in adverse contexts.
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