Renowned for his loyalty to the Cuban regime, singer-songwriter Raúl Torres took to Facebook on Monday to propose a remedy for Cuba's crippling food crisis. He suggests that the answer lies in tapping into the island's natural resources, including jicoteas (turtles), guinea fowl, water buffalo, tilapia, claria, river crabs, hutias, and deer.
This suggestion from the troubadour—who has been a member of the National Assembly of People's Power since 2018 and composed songs in tribute to Fidel Castro like "Riding with Fidel"—comes at a time when Cuba is experiencing its worst food crisis in decades. According to the Food Monitor Program, a staggering 97.65% of households are struggling to access essential goods.
Torres argues that Cuba is sitting on an untapped pantry. "The jicotea isn't just a lagoon creature for photos; it's a refined, firm meat that, if properly raised, could outperform many imports," he claims. However, he is quick to acknowledge his limitations, stating, "I'm a country boy, but that doesn't make me an agronomist or a statesman."
His perspective, encapsulated in a poetic yet impractical statement, is: "It's not that food is lacking; it's that sometimes we fail to organize our perspective."
Current Realities Versus Idealistic Views
While Torres urges Cubans to explore wetlands for sustenance, the reality is starkly different. On the informal market, a pound of rice can cost around 330 Cuban pesos, and sometimes even more than 400. Earlier in June, the Minister of the Food Industry admitted that staple items like oil, chicken, and yogurt have been unavailable through the government-regulated distribution system this year.
Last week, Torres acknowledged the tough times, noting that "the people are at the end of their tether." He urged leaders to "step out of their air-conditioned offices" and face everyday challenges, yet stopped short of questioning the system's underlying issues.
Blame and Inspiration
In his latest post, Torres blames the U.S. embargo, which he refers to as the "criminal blockade," and calls upon the spirit of Fidel Castro for guidance: "Saying 'I am Fidel' isn't just a slogan for rallies; it's a way of life."
He concludes his message with a nod to Silvio Rodríguez's song "Vamos a andar" and a call to action: "Let's move forward, my brother. The pantry is full, and the people who carry Fidel in their hearts have the strength, science, and love to open it wide."
Torres's proposal echoes the regime's long-standing rhetoric of "food sovereignty," which has done little to alleviate the worsening food crisis. Meanwhile, Cubans continue scavenging for food or spending exorbitant amounts on basic necessities that the state can no longer provide.
Understanding Cuba's Food Crisis
What are the natural resources Raúl Torres mentions as solutions?
Raúl Torres suggests utilizing jicoteas (turtles), guinea fowl, water buffalo, tilapia, claria, river crabs, hutias, and deer as potential food sources.
How severe is Cuba's current food crisis?
Cuba is facing its worst food crisis in decades, with 97.65% of households struggling to access essential goods, according to the Food Monitor Program.
What are the economic challenges Cubans face regarding food prices?
On the informal market, the price of a pound of rice can range from 330 to over 400 Cuban pesos, highlighting the economic difficulties in accessing basic food items.