The kits will be purchased directly from small local cooperatives on the Island to support local production.
14ymedio /EFE/, Madrid, March 16, 2026 – The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) is preparing to provide food and medicines to 5,000 people in Cuba, where the humanitarian situation has deteriorated as a result of the severe energy crisis affecting the island. About twenty photovoltaic panels will also be sent.
Specifically, according to the agency in a statement, a new aid package will be launched that includes 1,000 food kits and hygiene kits intended to cover the basic needs of about 5,000 people. These kits will be purchased directly from small local cooperatives in Cuba, helping to support local production.
In addition, the agency, which depends on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will send between 15 and 20 photovoltaic panels of 12 kW each to support the energy needs of social centers, such as schools or senior centers, benefiting approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people.
AECID emphasized that various international organizations have warned that the shortage of fuel and energy has reduced the operation of critical infrastructure, although it did not at any point mention the blockade on fuel shipments from Venezuela imposed by the United States, which has ultimately worsened a situation that was already complicated.
AECID will activate its emergency agreement with the Spanish Red Cross, valued at 160,000 euros, in order to contribute to the supply and installation
According to the agency, barely 500 health centers remain operational for emergencies, and millions of people have problems accessing drinking water and sanitation, with 4.5 million at risk of food insecurity.
Under these circumstances, Spain maintains close coordination with the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations of the European Commission (ECHO), and with humanitarian actors present in the country to identify new opportunities for support that would expand assistance to the affected population, AECID assured.
In addition, AECID will activate the emergency agreement with the Spanish Red Cross, valued at 160,000 euros, in order to contribute to the supply and installation of photovoltaic systems in medical facilities, in collaboration with the Cuban Red Cross.
This new package adds to the one million euros announced last month to support the response of international organizations in the areas of food and essential medical supplies. That contribution has been channeled through the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Translated by Regina Anavy
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