Cubans and friends of Cuba in Namibia are not giving up hope to see sanctions imposed on that country by the US more than 60 years ago lifted.

The embargo comprises a set of economic and trade restrictions that prohibit most trade and financial transactions between the two countries.

It further imposes restrictions on travel and diplomatic relations.

"The embargo has severely restricted Cuba's access to U.S. markets and financial systems, making it challenging for our country to engage in international trade and commerce, which in turn leads to hardships, scarcity of goods, and reduced economic opportunities for the Cuban people. The far-reaching consequences of the embargo on various aspects of Cuban society include healthcare, limiting access to medical supplies and medications, hindering the development of the Cuban economy, and making it difficult to pursue economic reforms," said Rafael Ramirez, President of the Cuban Association in Namibia.

The situation is aggravated by the US dollar's status as a major trade currency.

Protesters say Cuba has come a long way in moving towards more liberal policies and that the embargo has no justification in the modern era.

"The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution every year since 1992 demanding the end of the U.S. economic blockade on Cuba, with the United States and Israel being the only nations consistently voting against the resolutions. For the past 30 years, this has been the consistent position of a majority of member states."

The short-lived ease of sanctions on trade and travel during the administration of President Barack Obama in 2015 gave the Cuban people hope that the end was in sight for their long struggle.

However, in 2021, the administration of President Joe Biden imposed more sanctions on Cuba.

Cuban nationals have described the embargo as a 'barbaric political decision to destabilise the country.