A Cuban woman living in Suriname has become a vocal critic for her community after sharing a TikTok video on July 1, urging fellow Cuban women to stop bringing men from the island, whom she labels as "lazy," "freeloaders," and "moochers."
The TikToker, known as Mama Nessa (@mama.nessa70), delivered her message with blunt candor: "Stop bringing those lazy men from Cuba, stop sacrificing yourselves for these freeloaders who, once they arrive here in Suriname, cheat on you, take your money, beat you, and then leave you."
The 58-second clip has garnered nearly 23,000 views, over 1,500 likes, and 141 comments, indicating its significant impact among the Cuban community in this South American nation.
With a touch of irony, Mama Nessa suggested that Cuban women should invest in their pets rather than their partners, stating, "Bring your dogs instead. If you left your dog in Cuba, bring it here, because the dog won't abandon you. Invest in your dog, in your cat."
The video concludes with a powerful statement: "Leave those scoundrels in Cuba, it's up to you. Leave those scoundrels in Cuba."
Rising Cuban Presence in Suriname
This message resonates amid an increasing Cuban presence in Suriname, a country that has become a major transit point for those heading to the United States and the European Union. Between January and June 2025, nearly 9,000 Cubans entered Surinamese territory, and it is estimated that tens of thousands remain there without official registration since 2019.
This massive influx has caused internal tensions within the community, especially concerning the plight of migrant women, who face documented risks ranging from domestic violence to human trafficking networks.
In June 2026, a Cuban woman managed to escape from a trafficking ring that forced her into prostitution in Suriname, leading to the arrest of both a Cuban and a Surinamese citizen.
In July 2025, 35-year-old Cuban Yailín Torres was murdered in Suriname in front of her three-year-old daughter. On July 9, 2026, Ransay Puga from Camagüey tragically died in a motorcycle accident in Paramaribo.
Alarming Statistics and Cultural Debate
According to independent organizations, 12 Cuban women fell victim to femicide abroad in the early months of 2026, with 83.3% of these crimes committed by their partners or former partners.
The phenomenon of men living off women is a frequent topic in Cuban cultural debates both on the island and within the diaspora. However, Mama Nessa's video places it in a specific context, highlighting the real consequences for thousands of women who emigrated alone or funded their partners' journeys.
"You are responsible for the abundance of shameless, freeloading men here in Suriname," concluded the TikToker, pointing directly at those she believes perpetuate this cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Migration to Suriname
Why is there a significant Cuban community in Suriname?
Suriname has become a key transit point for Cuban migrants aiming to reach the United States and the European Union, leading to a growing Cuban community in the country.
What challenges do Cuban women face in Suriname?
Cuban women in Suriname face numerous challenges, including risks of domestic violence and exploitation by human trafficking networks.
How has the Cuban community responded to Mama Nessa's video?
The video by Mama Nessa has sparked significant discussion and reflection within the Cuban community in Suriname, as evidenced by the high number of views, likes, and comments.