Havana, 8 December 2025 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Qatar Fund for Development have signed a USD 4.5 million grant agreement to improve access for 2.2 million people to energy for cooking food and supporting safer water consumption for the Cuban population affected by hurricanes in the provinces of Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana through the distribution of liquefied gas.

The agreement will benefit 200 public services entities that serve the population, with priority given to health centers, educational institutions, and food production facilities. Support will further strengthen family care systems responsible for distributing food to people with disabilities, older adults, and other vulnerable groups.

Mr. Fahad Hamad Al-Sulaiti, Director General of Qatar Fund for Development, stated, “QFFD is committed to standing with communities affected by natural disasters and climate shocks, ensuring they receive the essential resources needed to fuel their path to recovery. This partnership with UNDP goes beyond addressing immediate needs, it is about enabling people to rebuild stronger and create a foundation for long-term stability. By supporting access to energy and vital services, we aim to help communities not only recover but also adapt and thrive in the face of future challenges.”

“Expanding access to energy in Cuba is essential to improving people’s lives and is one of UNDP’s priorities in the country. With this contribution from the Qatar Fund for Development, we will strengthen the resilience of communities and expand access to essential services and safe water supply in the provinces of Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana,” said Fernando, UNDP Resident Representative in Cuba.

The two hurricanes, Oscar and Rafael, which struck Cuba fewer than 30 days apart in 2024, caused severe damage to infrastructure and left several areas of Artemisa, Mayabeque, and Havana without electricity for up to a month. The severe electricity deficit, combined with the limited availability of liquefied gas increased the population’s vulnerability in meeting their basic needs. 

UNDP and the Qatar Fund for Development are working together to promote universal access to energy as part of both organizations’ commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. In collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Mines, UNDP will support the distribution process to help guarantee access to those affected.

UNDP expresses its gratitude to the Qatar Fund for Development for its support for vital services for Cuban communities affected by the recent hurricanes.

The project is expected to begin implementation in early 2026.

Media contacts 

For more information or to request an interview, contact:

Cuba: Fidel Rodriguez fidel.rodriguez@undp.orgfidel.rodriguez@undp.org 

About UNDP: UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our extensive network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated and lasting solutions for people and the planet.

About Qatar Fund for Development: Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) is the State of Qatar’s official provider for international development and humanitarian assistance. 

Guided by Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the State’s International Cooperation Strategy, and aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, QFFD leads transformative change by translating Qatar’s commitment to global solidarity into action, advancing progress toward a just, sustainable, and inclusive world through innovative finance, strategic programs, and high-impact partnerships. 

Since its establishment, QFFD has disbursed over $7 billion across more than 100 countries, focusing on vital sectors such as education, health, economic empowerment, and humanitarian assistance, while also addressing cross-cutting priorities including climate resilience, food security, sustainable infrastructure and other. 

Leveraging impact investments and diversified financing toolkit, including concessional loans, guarantees, grants, and blended finance, QFFD delivers scalable solutions that empower communities, strengthen resilience, and foster inclusive growth, while addressing both national priorities and global development challenges.