Cuban households are enduring power cuts lasting more than 20 hours as the country blames the United States’ economic blockade for worsening its energy crisis.
Havana estimates that the sanctions cost the island N$133.9 billion in one year.
Cuba’s ambassador to Namibia, Sergio Luis Vigoa de la Uz, presented the findings during a media briefing last week on the country’s 2026 report on the impact of the United States’ economic, commercial and financial blockade.
The report estimates that Cuba suffered damages of N$133.9 billion between March 2025 and February 2026, a 7% increase compared with the previous reporting period.
Cumulative losses have reached N$2.96 trillion at current prices, according to the report.
When adjusted for the rise in gold prices against the US dollar, the figure climbs to nearly N$64.6 trillion.
The ambassador says tightened United States (US) restrictions, particularly measures targeting fuel supplies, have worsened electricity shortages and disrupted healthcare, education, food production and transport.
“Households have experienced average power cuts exceeding 20 hours, while fuel shortages have affected hospitals, water supplies and the distribution of essential goods” he said.
The report further says sanctions and the threat of penalties against foreign companies and financial institutions have discouraged international trade and investment.
Cuba also reports growing difficulties accessing medicines and medical equipment, with shortages affecting cancer treatment, surgeries and other essential health services.
Havana maintains that the blockade violates international law and is calling for its immediate lifting.
The US has long defended its sanctions policy by citing concerns over Cuba’s political system and human rights record.
The report forms part of Cuba’s submission to the United Nations, which has repeatedly considered resolutions calling for an end to the US blockade.
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