Cuba is experiencing its worst economic and humanitarian crisis in 67 years, marked by a near-total collapse of the power grid, severe fuel shortages, and scarcity of food and medicine. Photo: News Source

The announcement comes as Cuba is experiencing its worst economic and humanitarian crisis in 67 years, marked by a near-total collapse of the power grid, severe fuel shortages, and  scarcity of food and medicine.

The current issues facing Cuba were triggered by a strict US oil blockade and the collapse of Venezuelan supplies.

The country is faced with daily blackouts, leading to  protests and record emigration.

In a statement today, CARICOM said the humanitarian effort is being coordinated by the CARICOM Secretariat here in Guyana.

“Items such as powdered milk, including baby formula; non-perishables such as beans, wheat flour, rice, and canned goods; basic medical supplies, solar panels, batteries, and water tanks, will be purchased on behalf of Member States and shipped to Cuba,” CARICOM said.

The CARICOM initiative is supported by the Government of Mexico, which has identified suppliers in Mexico that are able to deliver the items to the port of departure, and which will provide free shipment from Mexico to Cuba.

Earlier this month, Guyana’s President backed what he says is ‘changing the status quo’ in Cuba, in line with a position taken by US President Donald Trump.

President Trump is pursuing a hardline regime change policy toward Cuba, aiming to force a collapse of the government. His administration has implemented strict sanctions, including a blockade on oil shipments from Venezuela, and is using economic pressure to encourage a deal” to flip the island, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio managing the efforts. 

For over six decades the US has implemented a set of economic, commercial, and financial sanctions initiated against preventing U.S. businesses and citizens from conducting trade or commerce with Cuban interests.