As millions of Cubans endure power outages following the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) on Wednesday, the Ministry of Tourism has issued a statement aimed at providing "confidence and security" to international visitors. The message, shared on Facebook, emphasized that "most of our hotels and tourist services are equipped with generators and necessary resources to operate normally," ensuring that tourist facilities remain unaffected by the blackout.
This stark contrast between the dire situation faced by the Cuban populace and the safeguarding of the tourism sector highlights the government's priorities. While Cubans deal with food spoilage, disruptions to basic services, and increasing uncertainty about the stability of the electrical grid, the regime continues to focus on maintaining the country's image abroad.
Nonetheless, the government's unwavering commitment to tourism, even amid a widespread blackout, seems baffling and indefensible given the sector's ongoing crisis. The sharp decline in visitors from Russia and Canada, low hotel occupancy, and a steady drop in revenue have all taken their toll.
It's not the first time the Cuban government has openly declared its preference for the tourism industry over the well-being of its people during an energy crisis. In June, Cuba's Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, publicly defended the protection of the hotel sector amidst the island's energy challenges. In an interview with El País, he stated that power outages do not impact tourism because hotels are equipped with their own generators, thanks to substantial state investment.
Following the collapse of the National Electric System, the regime announced hours later that emergency systems had been activated in several areas across the country. The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) confirmed the establishment of "microsystems" to ensure service in certain vital areas.
Additionally, on Wednesday, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz boasted that the government has a well-defined strategy to tackle the total failure of the SEN—though not to prevent it. This failure occurred in the morning after the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas. "We have a well-defined strategy to face this situation and with the professionalism of UNE workers to advance as quickly as possible in restoring the system," Marrero wrote on his X profile, also stating that the public will be kept informed about the recovery process, although this does not guarantee prompt action or effectiveness.
Understanding Cuba's Electricity Crisis and Tourism Prioritization
Why does the Cuban government prioritize tourism during blackouts?
The Cuban government prioritizes tourism as it is a crucial source of revenue for the country's economy. By ensuring that tourist facilities remain operational, the government aims to maintain its international image and continue attracting foreign visitors, despite the ongoing energy crisis.
How are hotels in Cuba managing power outages?
Hotels in Cuba manage power outages by utilizing their own generators, which are part of a state-backed investment to ensure the tourism sector remains unaffected by the country's energy issues.
What is the current status of the National Electric System in Cuba?
The National Electric System in Cuba recently collapsed due to the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant. Emergency systems have been activated, and "microsystems" have been established to provide power to vital areas.