Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Havana, Jan 2.- This year, Cuba's eastern provinces have shown a face of resistance and organization as they advanced in recovery following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, which severely affected that territory on October 27 and 28.
Following the report from the Institute of Meteorology, it was stated that the most important achievement was that not a single human life was lost, despite the serious material damage caused by the phenomenon to numerous families. This was highlighted as the greatest victory, based on preparation and massive evacuation ahead of the hurricane's passage, and it now imposes the challenge of rebuilding the destruction with even greater strength.
Under the coordination of Civil Defense and local governments, the restoration of vital services was prioritized. They were supported by specialized brigades, some sent from other countries, who worked tirelessly to rehabilitate electrical, water, and road networks.
Attention was also focused on the agricultural sector, assessing damage to crops such as plantains and coffee and implementing rapid planting strategies to guarantee production and food security in the initial recovery phases.
Simultaneously, housing repair work was carried out, with over 3,000 temporary roofs installed to protect families whose homes were damaged.
The wave of solidarity became a fundamental pillar during this stage, as highlighted by Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of the Republic, during a visit to Holguín province: "The unity of the people and mutual aid are our greatest resources to move forward."
Up to the reported date, significant donations had been received and distributed from countries such as Vietnam, China, Iran, India, Türkiye, and others. These donations facilitated recovery with medical supplies, food, and domestic photovoltaic systems to support families who, due to the damage, did not have access to the restored electrical grid.
The United Nations, through the World Food Program, delivered water purification modules and equipment, and UNICEF activated its rapid response phase to deliver medication kits, mosquito nets, rehydration salts, and other essential items.
Nationally, a campaign coordinated by the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution and the Federation of Cuban Women collected clothing, mattresses, household items, personal hygiene products, and long-lasting food. Additionally, through these organizations, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) also contributed their share.
The authorities emphasized that, having overcome the immediate response phase, they had transitioned to early recovery, with plans including the complete repair of damaged educational and health centers.
The Institute of Meteorology maintained vigilance over weather developments in the region, while the people of the east, with their proverbial resilience, continued to rise up, backed by the support of the entire nation. (Text and photos: ACN and taken from the Internet)
