Unity: Cuba's Response to Hurricane Melissa

Images via the PCC

By Dayán González Ramírez. translated from the Spanish

A week has passed since Hurricane Melissa struck the eastern region of Cuba. For thousands of Cubans, these have been seven lengthy days since nature demonstrated much of its power.

During this time, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba's Central Committee and president of the Republic, along with Roberto Morales Ojeda, a member of the Political Bureau and secretary of Organization, have visited the hardest-hit provinces.

Today, they embark on a second journey to further the recovery process on the ground.

Managing the aftermath of destruction caused by such a meteorological event is challenging, especially for a country enduring a genocidal economic war like Cuba is. Over the past six decades of the Revolution, taking on the impossible has become a routine endeavor. This achievement isn't due to magic; rather, it is the result of a system and a Party with exceptional unifying ability, grounded in the most noble and humane values.

These are not just words; they are supported by the thousands of lives saved during evacuation and rescue operations, utilizing all available means and resources, and demonstrating the exceptional dedication of the FAR forces, the MININT, and local leaders.

This is what we observed in the Camilo Cienfuegos community in Río Cauto, where residents were rescued in operations directed by the Party's top authorities.

The president of the National Defense Council addressed fellow citizens who have survived but lost many possessions that came from their hard work and sacrifices, speaking to them as equals. The Party leaders did not offer promises; instead, they came to listen and help organize the return to normalcy, a journey that will be lengthy but one they will not face alone.

Amidst the lands muddied by severe floods, the leaders engaged in discussions and unanimously concluded that the quickest path forward relies on everyone's efforts and contributions.

A few hours prior to the meeting, Díaz-Canel and Morales also visited affected communities in Cauto Cristo, some of which remain uninhabitable.

The Revolution's hydraulic drive: crucial for both the present and the future

The "Cauto del Paso" dam is the most significant hydraulic structure in the province. It plays a crucial role in advancing large-scale agricultural initiatives, benefiting both the region and the country. Officials visited the site to understand the plans that ensure the infrastructure remains in optimal condition, which has helped prevent more severe flooding in the area.

Before ending the visit, Díaz-Canel and Morales conducted a review with regional authorities and ministers, discussing topics like the restoration of electricity service, housing, communications, and water supply.

Regarding this last point, they emphasized the need for swift action.

During economic hardships, the deliberate efforts of those impacted and fellow citizens arriving from other provinces are crucial. Careful planning of each step and the dedication of the leaders are also vital. This is what the top Party authorities have advocated, leading by example. They have emphasized the importance of communicating with the public and that solutions will emerge from the collective efforts of Cubans.

This work was translated and shared via a License CC-BY-NC