A makeshift wooden boat carrying 17 Haitian nationals ran aground on the night of September 21 at Playa Siboney, located in the Santiago de Cuba municipality.
The migrants had been adrift at sea for seven days. They initially departed from Haiti aiming for the U.S. shores, but adverse weather conditions redirected their course to the Cuban coastline.
Aris Arias Batalla, the provincial head of Operations and Relief for the Red Cross in Santiago de Cuba, reported the incident on Facebook directly from the beach. He confirmed that the migrants arrived shortly after 10:00 p.m. The group included 14 men, one woman, a girl, and a boy, all appearing to be in good health.
Immediate Response from Cuban Authorities
Cuban authorities promptly initiated a response to assist the newcomers. Hygiene and epidemiology personnel conducted health checks, while Immigration and Foreign Affairs specialists worked on identifying each of the migrants. Medical professionals examined them and found no health risks.
The Cuban Red Cross officials were present as humanitarian observers, alongside MININT officers for security and protection, and government representatives for logistical support.
Precarious Conditions of the Journey
The boat, which was in poor condition with severe damage, was made of bamboo poles tied with ropes and tarps used as a makeshift structural reinforcement, highlighting the dire conditions in which the migrants embarked on their journey.
Frequent Migrant Arrivals in Cuba
Many Haitian vessels attempting to reach Florida often become adrift or are diverted by weather, frequently ending up on Cuba's eastern shores. Once in Cuba, migrants receive assistance and are usually repatriated to Haiti by air, in coordination with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
In July 2025, six Haitian fishermen were rescued while adrift off the southern coast of Guamá, also in Santiago de Cuba. Similarly, in May 2022, Cuba sheltered and later repatriated over 800 Haitians whose vessel had aimed for the U.S. but landed in Caibarién, Villa Clara province.
The migratory pressure from Haiti in the Caribbean has remained high in recent years, driven by the security crisis in Haiti, where armed gangs control much of the territory.
For the 17 Haitians who landed at Siboney, the most likely outcome is similar to previous groups: repatriation to their home country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Haitian Migrants in Cuba
What happened to the Haitian migrants in Santiago de Cuba?
A boat with 17 Haitian migrants ran aground in Santiago de Cuba after being adrift for a week. They received assistance and are expected to be repatriated to Haiti.
Why do Haitian migrants end up in Cuba?
Many Haitian boats aiming for the United States are diverted by weather conditions or become adrift, often ending up on Cuba's shores.
How does Cuba handle Haitian migrants?
Cuba provides immediate assistance and care to Haitian migrants and usually repatriates them to Haiti in coordination with international organizations.