Guantanamo.- A total of 34 Local Development Projects (LDPs) are currently active in Guantánamo, as part of the strategies to boost local economy and improve essential services for the population, reported Regla Martínez Hechavarría, head of the Territorial Development Directorate.
The LDPs, established under Decree 33/2021, are economic, social, or sociocultural initiatives conceived by the municipalities to leverage their own resources, generate employment, and contribute revenue to the local budget, in accordance with territorial development strategies.
Martínez Hechavarría explained that among the recommended criteria for the approval of new projects is the incorporation of sustainable energy sources, an alternative that allows them to address the country’s current energy situation without affecting the social purpose of the productive or service initiatives.
She also emphasized the need to promote projects related to food production, with the aim of increasing local supply and contributing to the territory’s food security.
The specialist noted that not all proposals advance through the approval process, as some projects have been deemed unsuitable due to difficulties such as underutilization of the allocated budget or failure to pass the preliminary inspections conducted by the commission responsible for evaluating each initiative before implementation.
Among the proposals expected to be implemented soon is a project sponsored by a micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise (MSME) that will be located in the Pastorita neighborhood.
This project focuses on producing food for people with celiac disease. The initiative aims to offer free services to this vulnerable group, with funding provided through the sale of products to the general public.
Another Local Development Plan (PDL) is also planned, focused on solid waste collection using electric tricycles. This alternative seeks to improve waste management in urban areas and contribute to more sustainable practices within the territory.
Local authorities believe these initiatives offer a way to activate local resources amidst a complex economic climate, although their success depends on efficient management, the availability of funding, and the achievement of the objectives set for each project.
