The dire state of Cuba's water infrastructure raises pressing questions about the whereabouts of the $102.3 million provided by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) to the Cuban government. According to the state-run news agency ACN, the relationship between the island and the fund dates back more than two decades (since 2003). During this period, the cooperation has issued five loans for water network rehabilitation projects, including aqueducts, sewage systems, and storm drainage.
Of the amount allocated to the state-run National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (INRH), 84.7 percent has been utilized so far, allegedly benefiting 1,454,000 residents in the provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Havana.
However, recent data reveal that thousands of people lack daily water supply, largely due to power outages. Other contributing factors include drought, inadequate distribution networks, frequent breakdowns, and corruption.
Current Water Infrastructure Projects
Antonio Rodríguez Rodríguez, president of INRH, stated that rehabilitation and completion projects for networks in Havana are underway. Additionally, plans are in place to commence water supply and sanitation system upgrades in Holguín, benefiting over 299,100 residents.
Since 2021, a technical assistance program has been in place to study comprehensive solutions to flooding along the Havana Malecón. This initiative is the result of a grant agreement worth $1.02 million.
According to Rodríguez, the loan has facilitated the improvement of 260 kilometers of pipes, the installation of roughly 100,000 valves to control water loss, the importation of equipment and raw materials, and the procurement of pumping systems, among other things.
Despite the regime's claims of a broad investment program to secure water supply for the population, the reality is that the aging infrastructure remains a persistent issue. Outdated equipment frequently breaks down, causing supply interruptions and increasing public dissatisfaction.
Approximately 700,000 Cubans do not receive water daily due to power cuts, as the hydraulic sector is the second-largest consumer of electricity after residential demand, according to the official newspaper Granma. Last year's data indicate that about two million people receive water service every three days or less, and there are 478 communities lacking complete or partial aqueduct networks. This situation directly impacts the quality of life and health of the population, making them rely on alternative systems to obtain water.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba's Water Infrastructure Crisis
Below are some common questions and answers that shed light on the issues surrounding Cuba's water infrastructure and the recent financial aid from Kuwait.
What is the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development?
The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) is an organization that provides financial aid to developing countries for economic and social development projects.
How much money did Kuwait grant to Cuba for water infrastructure?
Kuwait granted Cuba over $102.3 million for the improvement of its water infrastructure.
What are the main issues affecting Cuba's water supply?
The main issues include power outages, drought, inadequate distribution networks, frequent breakdowns, and corruption.
Which provinces in Cuba are benefiting from the rehabilitation projects?
The provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Havana are benefiting from the rehabilitation projects.