I recently participated in the 19th International May Day Volunteer Work and Solidarity with Cuba Brigade (26 April – 9 May 2026), joining 225 delegates from around the world to mark the centenary of Fidel Castro’s birth.
Participants came from across Europe, the Americas, Africa and beyond, reflecting a strong tradition of international solidarity. The program, organised by the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, was based in Miramar while the main camp underwent upgrades, including renewable energy and water infrastructure improvements.
A country navigating challenges
Throughout the brigade, I observed a country managing ongoing economic hardship, shortages and youth emigration, while continuing to invest in healthcare, education and community development. Many people spoke about the impact of U.S. sanctions on food production, fuel, imports and daily life.
Community in action
A highlight was volunteering at an organopónico—one of Havana’s urban organic farms. While working alongside locals, we learned how Cuba has expanded organic agriculture in response to shortages of fuel and fertiliser.
This farm is part of a broader network of urban agriculture that supports:
- Local food production and food sovereignty
- Sustainable, low-input farming methods
- Strong community participation
Even simple moments—like sharing fresh coconut water straight from the farm—reflected this local, self-sufficient approach.
Public investment and solidarity
The program included visits to biomedical centres, schools, childcare facilities and agricultural cooperatives, highlighting Cuba’s continued commitment to public services despite economic constraints.
We also joined close to one million people at the May Day march in Havana, a powerful display of workers’ solidarity. Presentations from trade union leaders, community organisations and President Miguel Díaz‑Canel reinforced themes of social justice, sovereignty and resilience.
Building resilience for the future
I was particularly interested in Cuba’s efforts to strengthen:
- Renewable energy, including large-scale solar expansion
- Domestic food production to reduce reliance on imports
- Community-based initiatives that support local resilience
Recent fuel shortages and blackouts have intensified the push toward renewable energy and self-sufficiency.
Key insights
Sustainable food production
- Shift to organic farming using compost and natural pest control
- Expansion of urban agriculture and community gardens
- Strong focus on local, year-round food production
- Reduced reliance on resource-intensive farming practices
Energy transition
- Growth in solar energy and renewable generation
- Target of 24% renewable electricity by 2030, and full transition by 2050
- Long-term aim of full energy independence
- Investment in bioenergy, wind and small-scale hydro
Final reflections
This experience offered a perspective beyond the headlines. Alongside the challenges, I saw a peaceful country with a strong sense of community and collective purpose.
The visit reinforced the importance of international solidarity and deepened my understanding of both the challenges Cuba faces and the resilience of its people.
Leyal Aksu
01/07/2026