The introduction of cement-free homes is emerging as a seemingly permanent "invention" under consideration by regime authorities in Santiago de Cuba. This initiative aims to assist those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Danislay Hechavarría Duvalón, coordinator of Construction Programs and Objectives in the Provincial Government, informed state media that these homes are among the proposed solutions to address the crisis following Hurricane Melissa, which left 137,000 properties damaged and 22,000 completely destroyed.
Hechavarría Duvalón also mentioned efforts to adapt spaces and containers into housing, alongside the construction of numerous Type IV homes. "Local production of construction materials is being restored," she added, "and alternative solutions are being evaluated in the hardest-hit municipalities, including Santiago de Cuba, with around 67,000 affected homes, as well as Palma Soriano and Contramaestre. A prototype of a cement-free house has already been built in Segundo Frente."
This is not the first instance of such solutions being attempted on the island. Last June, the provincial government of Villa Clara announced the construction of two experimental homes—one in Santa Clara and another in Remedios—that entirely forgo cement and steel.
Recently, Cuban state media also highlighted an "innovative" project involving the conversion of recycled metal containers into housing units.
This project is presented as an alternative to the severe housing deficit and the restrictions on cement and fuel that have hindered the national housing plan, compounded by the damages from hurricanes like Melissa.
The collapse of housing construction in Cuba starkly illustrates the severe economic and social crisis gripping the country. In 2024, the number of homes built was 5.5 times fewer than in 1984 and 15 times fewer than in 2006.
Even during the critical year of 1992, at the height of the Special Period, nearly three times as many houses were constructed compared to last year, according to economist Pedro Monreal.
Understanding Cuba's Housing Crisis
Why are cement-free homes being considered in Cuba?
Cement-free homes are being considered as a response to the severe housing deficit and the scarcity of construction materials like cement and fuel. This initiative aims to provide shelter to those affected by natural disasters, such as Hurricane Melissa, while addressing broader housing challenges.
What are the challenges faced by Cuba's housing sector?
Cuba's housing sector is grappling with significant challenges, including material shortages, a lack of fuel, and the lingering impact of natural disasters. The economic and social crises have further exacerbated the situation, leading to a drastic reduction in housing construction over the years.