Cable thefts highlight Cuba's mounting economic challenges
In Havana, the theft of 600 metres of telephone cable caused disruptions in communication. It is one of the many problems currently facing Cuba.
In the Boyeros district of Havana, the theft of 600 metres of telephone cable led to significant disruptions in communication. According to "Tribuna de la Habana," such incidents are becoming more frequent, with seven similar cases reported since the beginning of the year.
The Cuban state-owned enterprise Telecomunicaciones de Cuba points out that copper cables are most often targeted by thieves. On the black market, copper is highly valued, which encourages Cubans, who are struggling with the crisis, to steal.
The theft of public property is just one of many manifestations of the economic crisis that Cuba is currently facing. Also posing a serious problem are shortages of basic items on store shelves and regular power outages.
"Tribuna de la Habana" highlights the nearly threefold increase in prices of goods and services over the past four years. Additionally, the ongoing "dollarization of the market" complicates life for residents who have to deal with daily challenges.
Energy crisis in Cuba
Cuba has been grappling with a severe energy crisis for years, leading to frequent power outages. In December, residents waited in lines at gas stations for up to three days.
In recent months, Cuba has also faced power supply interruptions. The last crisis occurred in March of this year when the streets were shrouded in darkness. At the time, the independent portal 14ymedio reported on a "total blackout." Residents of many cities and provinces had no access to electricity.
From October to December 2024 alone, there were several blackouts, prompting island residents to take to the streets to express their dissatisfaction not only with the energy crisis but also with the overall economic situation in Cuba.
