The ongoing energy crisis in Cuba continues to produce scenes that, while highlighting the inventiveness and resilience of its people, often seem straight out of a dystopian novel. A video circulating on TikTok (@vivacubalibre01) captures three Cubans, caught in the midst of a blackout, resourcefully hand-operating a lathe to complete a piece.
"This is to show that we never give up. No one here is giving up," one of the individuals in the video declares, showcasing the determination that many Cubans exhibit when facing daily challenges, from frequent power outages to the scarcity of basic necessities.
This act of "creative perseverance" has sparked a variety of reactions. While some praise the ingenuity and unwavering spirit of those involved, others criticize what they perceive as submission and acceptance of such dire circumstances.
Recently, activist Irma Broek shared a video on Facebook showing a man brewing the cherished "black nectar of the gods" using a welding torch: "Here we are trying to brew coffee because there's no electricity, no gas, nothing." The love for a steaming, dark cup of coffee runs so deep that, amid scarcity, people resort to inventive methods to savor a sip, further examples of the so-called "creative perseverance."
A few days ago, another Cuban showcased his resourcefulness amidst the energy crisis by figuring out a way to charge his cellphone using telephone lines.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is primarily due to outdated infrastructure, insufficient fuel imports, and economic mismanagement by the socialist regime, leading to frequent power outages.
How are Cubans coping with the power outages?
Cubans are exhibiting remarkable ingenuity and resilience by improvising solutions such as manually operating machinery, using alternative methods to brew coffee, and finding creative ways to charge electronics.