Cuba stood with us; it is time we stand with them

Mar 19, 2026 Features / Columnists, Peeping Tom

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(Kaieteur News) – “When Guyana had a shortage of doctors, Cuba sent them to us. Then they offered our children free medical scholarships so much so that 50% of all of our doctors were trained in Cuba. Then Cuba offered to clean our eyes for cataract and other sickness for free in Cuba and Guyana, and now that our eyes are clean and we can see clearly, we don’t want them anymore.”

The above is a Facebook post. It may be simple, but it carries a powerful truth. It reminds us of something we should never forget: Cuba has stood with Guyana in some of our most difficult moments. At a time when our country struggled with a shortage of doctors, Cuba did not hesitate. They sent medical professionals to serve in our hospitals and clinics. They helped to fill gaps that we simply could not fill on our own.

Even more importantly, Cuba invested in our future. They opened their doors to young Guyanese and offered free medical scholarships. The PPPC hyped the fact that when Jagdeo met with Fidel Castro in Havana, he came back with a solid commitment that Cuba would train on average 300 of our students as doctors.  Many of the local doctors today working in Guyana were trained in Cuba. In many ways, Cuba helped to build the backbone of our healthcare system.

Then there was the eye care programme. Thousands of Guyanese benefited from free treatment for cataracts and other eye conditions. People who had lost hope of seeing clearly again were given a second chance. For many, it was life-changing. They could work again, move about safely, and regain their independence. That kind of help cannot be measured in dollars. We even were able to establish our own Ophthalmology Hospital.

Now we are at a moment where the Medical Brigade programme has been discontinued. This is a decision that ought never to have happened. Cuba has stood by us when we needed help the most. And we should have done what was necessary to ensure that the Medical Brigade programme did not end.

Cuba has been, without question, one of the most generous partners Guyana has ever had. For more than 50 years, they have shared what they had with us, even when they themselves faced hardships.

It is worth asking: how many countries would do the same? How many would give so much, asking for so little in return? When we compare this record of generosity with that of more powerful nations, the difference is clear. Cuba’s support has been consistent. It has touched ordinary lives in real ways. It has been more than some of the richer countries ever gave to us. And Cuba is not a rich country.

Yesterday, I suggested that there be a peaceful protest against the decision to discontinue the programme. But I also understand the reality many people face. There is a genuine fear of victimisation. People worry about speaking out or being seen in opposition to government decisions. That fear is real, and it cannot be dismissed.

So today, I am suggesting something different—something positive, something unifying: a walk of appreciation.

This is not about confrontation. It is not about politics. It is about saying “thank you.” It is about recognising the good that has been done and showing that we, as a people, have not forgotten.

I understand that in Jamaica, there are already concerns about the ending of the Medical Brigade programme. There, a group is organising a walk of appreciation to express gratitude to Cuba. If they can do it, why can’t we? Why should Guyana, of all places, remain silent?

A walk of appreciation would send a powerful message. It would show that beyond governments and policies, the people of Guyana remember and value the contributions Cuba has made. It would be a peaceful, respectful way of expressing gratitude—something that should never be controversial.

But we should not stop there. Words are important, but actions matter even more. Cuba is currently facing serious economic challenges. There are shortages, difficulties, and real hardships affecting ordinary Cuban people.

This is the time for us to give back, even in a small way. I would urge that the Private Sector Commission, a sit did with St. Vincent and the Grenadines, take the lead in organising a collection of humanitarian aid for Cuba. It does not have to be grand. It can start small—food items, medical supplies, basic necessities and solar panels. If many people contribute a little, it can add up to something meaningful.

We often speak about solidarity, about friendship, about shared struggles. Here is an opportunity to put those words into action.

Cuba stood with us. The least we can do now is stand in appreciation of them.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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• Cuba, Cuba Doctors, Medical Brigade programme, Peeping Tom

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