The thirteenth Congress of the National Association of Private Farmers of Cuba (ANAP) took place in Havana.

By: Roberto Morejón

With proposals and debates on the strategic production of food, the thirteenth Congress of the National Association of Private Farmers of Cuba (ANAP) took place in Havana.

Representatives of the more than three thousand grassroots organisations spoke in this capital, immersed in the concerns and suggestions on how to produce the food demanded by the population and working to move away from the import mentality.

Peasants affiliated with ANAP play a crucial role, as they are responsible for 70 percent of the food sent to markets. However, in the current economic crisis, it is imperative to be more creative, organised, and disciplined.

In the face of the intensified U.S. blockade and Cuba's placement on Washington's list of sponsors of terrorism, farmers must fulfil their production and supply contracts.

This is not an easy task, given that supplies are scarce, the labour force has decreased, and the deficit of the national electro-energy system is exacerbated.

However, the farmers are determined, and many private farmers are setting an example of dedication through hard work and unity.

However, it remains to be seen whether the best efficiency practices can be adopted across the entire agricultural sector, even in the face of material shortages. It is crucial to treat each hectare as an integral part of the food chain.

At the ANAP congress, leaders of the country and experts emphasised that the organisation must ensure that each cooperative fulfils its commitments based on self-sacrifice and efficiency.

A notable moment occurred when many delegates advocated confronting theft, corruption and indiscipline, as these issues cause significant losses.

The congress called for greater efforts to attract younger generations, as the future of agriculture depends on them.

There is still work to be done in the fields in very challenging conditions, due to the relentless sun and lack of resources.

However, public policies must be combined with innovation, the use of bioproducts, productive diversification and the exploitation of greater potential to increase agricultural and sugarcane production.