February 25, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada
Cuba is facing rapidly worsening conditions driven by severe fuel shortages, prolonged blackouts and growing barriers to accessing food and health care. The energy crisis, further compounded by last year’s challenges, including Hurricane Melissa, has increased the vulnerability of millions of people.
Today, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), announced an accelerated funding of $8 million to be released immediately to scale-up food and nutrition for vulnerable Cubans. This funding is part of an international assistance program to strengthen local food security and nutrition, delivered through trusted partnerships with the World Food Programme and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), ensuring our aid reaches the Cuban people directly.
Canada continues to monitor the situation in Cuba and remains in close contact with its partners to assess and respond to evolving needs.
Quotes
“As the people of Cuba face significant hardship, Canada stands in solidarity and is providing targeted assistance to help address urgent needs. Through trusted humanitarian partners, we are delivering timely support to vulnerable communities and reaffirming Canada’s commitment to the well-being and dignity of the Cuban people.”
– Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
“Canada stands with the people of Cuba during this difficult time. Our support will be delivered directly to the most vulnerable to help address urgent food and nutrition needs and provide some immediate relief.”
– Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)
Quick facts
- Canada’s international assistance in Cuba is delivered through experienced partners, including United Nations entities and Canadian non-governmental organizations.
- In fiscal year 2024 to 2025, Canada provided $8.3 million in funding for development assistance to Cuba. This support went toward strengthening nutrition and food security, supporting renewable energy solutions, advancing women’s economic empowerment and preventing and responding to gender‑based violence.
- Canada provided over $3 million in humanitarian assistance in the wake of Hurricane Melissa in October 2025 to support the emergency needs of affected populations.
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