The Cuban government has recently introduced the first 15 homes constructed from shipping containers in San Antonio del Sur, Guantánamo. This "cost-effective and rushed" project aims to assist families who lost their homes to Hurricanes Oscar in 2024 and Melissa in 2025.
As reported by the Cuban News Agency (ACN), these homes are part of the newly established "24 de febrero" settlement located in Buena Vista.
Each unit, measuring 12 meters in length, is designed to accommodate families of up to four people. The layout includes two bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, a living and dining area, along with full sanitary facilities.
To guard against flooding, the structures are elevated above ground level and utilize melamine panels for thermal insulation.
Ariel Frómeta Matos from the Municipal Housing Directorate stated that the total investment reached 14.5 million pesos. "Already, 48 individuals are benefiting from this initiative, which aims to provide a quick and lasting solution," he told ACN.
During the opening ceremony, Reinaldo Paz Estévez, one of the recipients, expressed gratitude for the assistance received, more than two years after the hurricane struck the eastern region: "When Hurricane Oscar hit, we thought this would be impossible. We lost everything, and today we have a new home."
The community is being developed in a planned area with projections extending to 2030. The plan includes the construction of a grocery store, an expanded school, and additional essential services.
Local authorities emphasized that these projects aim to "enhance essential services" and improve the quality of life in one of Cuba's most vulnerable eastern municipalities.
Although the Cuban regime promotes this approach as "wonderful," the reality is that it falls short of being a widespread or free solution, resulting in debt, reduced living space, and expectations adjusted to ongoing shortages.
Questions About Cuban Container Homes for Hurricane Victims
What are the dimensions of the container homes provided in Guantánamo?
Each container home measures 12 meters in length and is designed to house families of up to four people.
Who benefits from the container housing initiative in Guantánamo?
The initiative benefits families who lost their homes to Hurricanes Oscar and Melissa, as part of a quick and durable solution to their housing needs.
What are the future development plans for the area where the container homes are located?
The area is planned to include a grocery store, an expanded school, and new essential services, with development projected to continue until 2030.