Geneva, May 17, 2026. Cuban First Deputy Minister of Public Health Tania Margarita Cruz Hernández held a meeting today at the United Nations headquarters in Switzerland with South African Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi.
Both parties highlighted the deep historical ties of brotherhood and cooperation between Cuba and South Africa, dating back to the struggle against Apartheid.
The Cuban representative provided extensive information on the tightening of the criminal economic blockade imposed by the United States, including the energy siege enforced since last January and its severe impact on the Cuban health system.
She also reported on the determined efforts that have made it possible to preserve the vitality of the health system despite the challenges, through a strategic reorganization based on resilience, the optimization of resources, and the altruistic work of Cuban human capital, which every day seeks alternative solutions to confront the shortage of resources.
The South African minister emphasized the admiration and international recognition earned by the Cuban health system, which is based on primary health care and has achieved significant results. He conveyed his solidarity and support for Cuba during these difficult times, in which South Africa has maintained a clear and firm position against the blockade imposed on the Cuban people.
The delegations exchanged views on the possibilities of continuing to expand and diversify bilateral cooperation in the field of health through different modalities.
Over the past 30 years, hundreds of Cuban specialists have provided cooperation in that African country in multiple areas. A Cuban medical brigade made up of more than 150 health professionals is currently providing services in South Africa, many of them in rural areas, where they have earned the affection and appreciation of the South African people.
As a result of the Fidel Castro–Nelson Mandela Programme, considered by the United Nations as an international benchmark for South-South cooperation, 2,415 South African youths have graduated as doctors in Cuba and are now practicing in all nine South African provinces. Another 299 students are currently studying at Cuban universities.
Deputy Minister Tania M. Cruz Hernández heads the Cuban delegation to the 79th World Health Assembly, which will take place in Geneva beginning tomorrow, May 18, and will run through May 23.
