By Cde Mafa Kwanisai Mafa

The recent announcement by the United States to take steps towards easing some restrictions on Cuba has been met with cautious optimism by supporters of the Cuban Revolution worldwide, including here in Zimbabwe.

While the removal of Cuba from the State Department’s list of so-called “State Sponsors of Terrorism,” the suspension of lawsuits under Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, and the lifting of restrictions on certain financial transactions mark a move in the right direction, they are but small cracks in the walls of an unjust and inhumane blockade.

As Zimbabweans, we stand in unwavering solidarity with the people and government of Cuba, a nation that has long been a beacon of revolutionary resilience and international solidarity.

The enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and Cuba is built on a foundation of shared values: anti-imperialism, self-determination, and the belief in a more just and equitable world.

Yet, the continued enforcement of the U.S. blockade against Cuba threatens the very ideals that unite us.

The Blockade: A Crime Against Humanity

The U.S. economic blockade, with its far-reaching and extraterritorial impact, is a glaring violation of international law and human rights.

Its effects are felt in every sector of Cuban life, from healthcare to education, agriculture to infrastructure. Despite Cuba’s globally recognized achievements in medicine and public health, the blockade restricts access to essential medical supplies, hinders international financial transactions, and disrupts legitimate trade with other nations.

This policy, designed to cripple Cuba’s economy and foment desperation, is nothing short of economic warfare.

The historical roots of the blockade, as articulated in 1960 by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Lester Mallory, lay bare its cruel intent: to bring the Cuban people “to their knees” through suffering and deprivation. This strategy is as morally indefensible today as it was then.

Cuba’s Legacy of Solidarity

In stark contrast to the hostility it faces, Cuba has consistently extended a hand of friendship to the world.

Thousands of Cuban doctors and healthcare workers have served in Africa, including Zimbabwe, providing lifesaving care in underserved areas. Cuban educators have shared their expertise in the spirit of cooperation, helping to build a brighter future for many nations.

Zimbabwe has directly benefited from this generosity. Cuban doctors have worked tirelessly in our hospitals, and Cuban scholarships have enabled countless Zimbabwean students to pursue higher education.

The solidarity of the Cuban people is a model of internationalism that we must emulate and protect.

The Role of Zimbabwe-Cuba Solidarity

Our support for Cuba is anchored in the strong historical and ideological ties forged through shared struggles.

Zimbabweans have always stood shoulder to shoulder with Cuba in the fight against imperialism and economic oppression.

This enduring bond is symbolized by the countless expressions of solidarity across sectors, from education and healthcare to political and cultural partnerships.

In this spirit, we urge the African Union, SADC, and other regional bodies to amplify their voices in condemning the blockade.

It is imperative that we challenge the narrative of disinformation and coercion propagated by those who seek to undermine Cuba’s sovereignty.

A Call to Action

The partial measures announced by the U.S. government are a recognition of the pressure exerted by the international community, including Zimbabwe.

However, they fall far short of the justice that Cuba deserves. The blockade, in its entirety, must be dismantled.

We call on progressive movements, governments, and individuals worldwide to intensify their efforts to end this economic warfare.

Let us echo the Cuban government’s call for respectful relations based on dialogue and mutual respect, free from interference and coercion.

As Zimbabweans who have shared the trenches with Cuba in the struggle against imperialism, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the Cuban people. Their fight is our fight, and their resilience inspires us to continue challenging injustice in all its forms.

Let the world hear us: Down with the blockade! Long live Cuba-Zimbabwe solidarity!

Havana may be thousands of miles from Harare, but our hearts beat as one in the struggle for freedom, dignity, and self-determination. The Cuban Revolution will prevail, and so will the ideals that unite us.

Aluta continua!