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This article describes the methodological challenges encountered in attempting to undertake research into the agricultural sector in Cuba, and the often serendipitous ways in which these challenges may be overcome. The struggles of numerous Cuban researchers who were attempting to continue their work during the resource-poor Special Period are also described. The article examines the views of Cuban colleagues who have informally, and politely, contested interpretations of the 'snapshot' of the farming and food systems that the author documented, and discusses their differing perspectives of 'the real situation'. The author ends with observations about the book that emerged as an adaptation of the doctoral thesis1 and how it has become a seminal text not only for students but also for civil society groups working for change toward more sustainable systems that are less dependent on fossil fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the early 1990s, industrialised Cuba was plunged into crisis as it lost its major source of food, fuel and agricultural input supplies with the demise of the Soviet bloc. Within a decade, the country had recovered sufficiently to double agricultural production, increase calorific availability by 25 per cent, and maintain a consistent and equitable social food programme. Given the continued shortfall of petroleum imports into the country, this was a major achievement, yet it is little studied or used as a learning example for other nations struggling with food insecurity. This article presents the results of a unique study into Cuban agriculture and its food system at the end of the 1990s, identifying the main mechanisms implemented by Cuba to regain its food security status. It argues that the lack of interest in the Cuban experience by the international community indicates that political bias may be causing us to ignore lessons that could contribute to achieving food security in other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main challenges that today the planet faces against climatic change is the recurrent drought; therefore, forecasting and preparation to this phenomenon are key elements to reduce its impact. In Cuba, several provinces are affected by this situation. Taking into account the high impact of this phenomenon on agriculture, some actions are required to produce foods, even under drought conditions. With the aim of providing experience on this concern, the present work was developed with farmers from La Palma, Pinar del Río, and Urbano Noris, Holguín, two localities that are strongly affected by drought and salinity in our country. Different alternatives have been experimented by farmers and researchers in both communities, starting from single systems of rain capture up to diversity introduced in distinct crops and new tolerant varieties to local conditions. The application of biofertilizers, such as mycorrhiza and compost tea, has been an alternative to improve soil and let plants grow healthier and more vigorous. Results from farmer experimentation have proved the feasibility of using local alternatives, either independently or forming a group, to diminish drought impact on both locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]