Camagüey Prioritizes Vulnerable Groups for Rice Distribution...

What Happened

Authorities in Camagüey have begun distributing rice for January and February, but only to pregnant women and vulnerable individuals. Each beneficiary will receive four kilograms of rice as part of the regulated basic basket.

This measure comes amid repeated delays and persistent difficulties in supplying essential goods.

Where and When

The distribution is taking place in 14 designated establishments across the four districts of the provincial capital. Consumers must go to their assigned ration store based on their residence.

Specific locations include units in Julio Antonio Mella (La Libertad, La Fraternal, El Supermercado), Cándido González (La Venezuela, La Central), Ignacio Agramonte (La Mixta, San Blas, Nuevo Modelo), and Joaquín de Agüero (12 Horas, Altagracia, Juruquey, La Espinita, La Paz, El Recuerdo).

Why It's Important

This action highlights the ongoing scarcity of basic food items in Cuba, particularly rice, a staple in the Cuban diet. The rationing and delayed deliveries create uncertainty and force many to seek more expensive options on the informal market.

The decision to prioritize specific groups reflects a narrowing of universal coverage within the rationing system, focusing limited resources on those deemed at higher nutritional risk.

What the Parties Say

Official media in the territory reported the measure. The text implies that these decisions are made by provincial authorities in response to supply chain challenges.

While no direct quotes are provided, the context suggests a government effort to manage severely limited resources by targeting them towards the most vulnerable populations.

What Comes Next

Consumers not included in this prioritized distribution will continue to face uncertainty regarding when they will receive their rice ration. Similar delays have been reported for other products like sugar and chickpeas in Havana.

The situation underscores the persistent food security challenges faced by the population, where even basic products are subject to irregular schedules and limited availability.