Maribel Gutiérrez, representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Cuba

Unlike other nations, during the last two years Cuba prioritized the health and well-being of its people over economic interests, which meant a huge effort, due to financial and resource limitations exacerbated by the global health crisis.

Maribel Gutiérrez, representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Cuba, stated this during her most recent visit to the province of Ciego de Ávila, where she recognized the country's efforts to guarantee the health of its population in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since 2020, UNDP has supported the fight against this disease on the island, with the help of donors from several countries, who have delivered supplies to the Ministry of Public Health and renowned institutions such as the Institute of Tropical Medicine "Pedro Kourí”, she pointed.

The contributions made were also aimed at achieving a better socioeconomic recovery after the most intense period of the pandemic in the Cuban nation.

Maribel assured that during tours the optimal use of resources and benefits to the population was verified, so that the purposes of international cooperation are fulfilled.

Mrs. Gutiérrez highlighted the European Union (EU), Italy, Switzerland and Canada as some of the main contributors to sustainable development projects that are promoted in the country, including the program for the recovery of homes affected by meteorological phenomena and the rehabilitation of coastal shores.

She explained that in the Cuban nation, a restoration project of more than 600 kilometers of the southern coast (Mi Costa) begins, which will benefit 1.3 million inhabitants; in addition to the environmental and social impact of Coastal Resilience, carried out in four coastal settlements on the north coast, in favor of some 6,900 people.

The UNDP Representative in Cuba also reported that a study will be supported on the Havana seawall on the impact of the waves during the hurricane, which will contribute to the preparation to face these hydro-meteorological phenomena.

She added that this organization also finances projects aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy sources and strengthening local food systems, in line with the country's policies and the sustainable development goals approved by the United Nations.

It works with the United Nations Food Agency (FAO) to improve agro-food systems in various provinces and municipalities of the country, in conjunction with local governments, after identifying the potential for obtaining nutrients.

The UNDP official highlighted that the results of these initiatives are what give the presence of UNDP on the island notoriety and they are pleased to appreciate the progress in provinces such as Ciego de Ávila, thanks to their efforts and external support.

She also highlighted the actions that are being carried out in the country to identify and take advantage of potentialities that allow increasing the production of goods and services, in a sustainable way, in order to improve the quality of life of the people.