Food production, based on local development, is an essential way to ensure economic sustainability, expressed in the Conceptualization of the Cuban Economic and Social Model of Socialist Development; the National Economic and Social Development Plan through 2030, and of the Economic and Social Policy Guidelines, approved in the Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba.
It is intended to promote local development, based on municipal, provincial and national strategies, so that each municipality is strengthened with the necessary and sustainable autonomy, and with a solid economic-productive base.
One of the strategic elements is the promotion of projects, based on small and medium-sized companies, that contribute to productive and service chains, focused on local development and prioritizing Food Industry activities.
In San Antonio de los Baños, in terms of local development in favor of food production to sustain the municipal economy, it is essential to mention the cooperatives that supply the markets, as well as the dining rooms of the educational and Public Health institutions in Ariguanabo.
We can also mention the cultivation of food and vegetables in urban farms and national reference yards such as ‘’Los Hermanos Alemán’’. But in Ariguanabo, livestock is also one of the economic lines that strengthen economic and food development, from the locality.
The Kikirikí Mini-Industry, belonging to the Agricultural Company, markets its productions in agricultural fairs held in different entities of the municipality, with quality products.
There are currently several sources of financing for local development, including: the economy plan, the municipal budget, the funds for the Municipal Development Initiative projects, as well as bank loans.
However, I believe that despite these opportunities there are insufficient levels of articulation and use of these sources, as well as the capacities of local actors to plan and manage financing for local development.
It is necessary to involve the people much more in order to produce, exploit and explore possibilities, in favor of local development. Because this contribution will only be effective if it is well managed, with projects that represent a source of income for the community and increase the quality of life, especially of food.
