Cuba's Santeros offer gifts and ask deities for peace as tensions rise with US

HAVANA (AP) — As tensions rise between the United States and Cuba and the island braces for more economic difficulties, priests and priestesses of the Afro-Cuban religion known as Santería held several ceremonies on Sunday, offering gifts to deities and asking for peace.

Several leading figures in the Santería community prayed for the “spiritual healing” of the Cuban people and an end to the violence and conflicts that, according to their predictions in late December, would characterize this year.

They chanted in ancient Yoruba, brought to the island by enslaved Africans and passed down orally. African and Spanish traditions syncretized, giving rise to Cuba’s strong Afro-Cuban identity.

“We...believe that through sacrifices and prayers we can alleviate the impact of harmful issues,” said Lázaro Cuesta, a renowned priest who organized the ceremony in the courtyard of an old house.

On Jan. 2, Cuban Santería priests known as babalawos predicted the possibility of war and violence that would affect Cuba and the world using traditional divining methods.

A day later, on Jan. 3, the United States struck Venezuela's capital, Caracas, and arrested then-President Nicolás Maduro. Thirty-two Cuban soldiers from Maduro’s personal security detail died in the operation.

Venezuela is one of Cuba’s main political, ideological and commercial allies, and the attack shocked the island’s population.

Cuba is currently experiencing a radical tightening of U.S. sanctions, strangling its economy to pressure for a change in its political system, and U.S. President Donald Trump has directly threatened the island.

“As religious people, we always try to distance ourselves from anything negative that comes into our lives,” said Yusmina Hernández, a 49-year-old homemaker, as she participated in the ceremony.

At the foot of a leafy mango tree swaying in the breeze, a hen, a rooster and a dove were sacrificed. Around them, several dozen babalawos raised their voices in prayer, repeatedly asking Eggun, the deity of the ancestors, for permission to invoke his power and presence.

Then, the priests and parishioners moved to a large room in the house for the second part of the ceremony.

Dressed in white, wearing necklaces and headdresses, they made their offering to Azowano, one of the forms Saint Lazarus takes in their religion. They knelt before a large basket and bowls filled with beans, corn, and even two eggs, a generous offer since they are expensive in Cuba.

Afterward, several hundred people formed a single file, circled the basket and were finally “cleansed" after being swept with two live chickens while the attendees chanted in Yoruba.

“This is being done for the good of society, so that there is no conflict or violence, so that there is harmony and health,” said Eraimy León, a 43-year-old babalawo.

Follow AP’s coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america

Santeria priests, also known as Babalawos, perform a cleansing ritual with roosters during a ceremony calling for peace and health in Havana, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

Santeria priests, also known as Babalawos, perform a cleansing ritual with roosters during a ceremony calling for peace and health in Havana, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

Santeria priests, also known as Babalawo, eat after a cleansing ritual with roosters during a ceremony calling for peace and health in Havana, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

Santeria priests, also known as Babalawos, perform a cleansing ritual with roosters during a ceremony calling for peace and health in Havana, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

Santeria priests, also known as Babalawos, perform a cleansing ritual with roosters during a ceremony calling for peace and health in Havana, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

PLANTATION, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr 23, 2026--

Akumin Inc. (“Akumin” or the “Company”), a leading provider of diagnostic imaging and oncology solutions, recently welcomed referring providers, healthcare partners, community guests and Team Members to an Open House and ribbon-cutting celebration at its newly renovated Plantation imaging center, held in collaboration with United Imaging.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422948422/en/

The event marked the unveiling of the center’s refreshed space, highlighting Akumin’s continued investment in creating elevated outpatient imaging environments designed to enhance the patient experience.

Attendees had the opportunity to tour the renovated facility, connect with Akumin leadership, Team Members, and United Imaging representatives, and experience firsthand the thoughtful design and advanced imaging environment that support high-quality care and clinical excellence.

“This investment reflects how we are continuing to strengthen access to advanced imaging,” said Henry Howe, Chief Executive Officer of Akumin. “The Plantation center represents our commitment to delivering a more modern, connected care experience, one that combines innovative technology, thoughtful design and the high standard of service our communities expect from Akumin.”

The event featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting, guided facility tours, networking opportunities and curated refreshments, bringing together key stakeholders to commemorate the center’s refreshed environment and future-focused approach to imaging services.

The Plantation center also reflects Akumin’s continued investment in advanced imaging technology through its collaboration with United Imaging, including newly installed MRI and PET/CT systems, with a CT system planned for installation in the near future. Akumin’s collaboration with United Imaging reflects a shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence and delivering an exceptional care experience.

“We were honored to be part of this celebration with Akumin,” said David Bradley, Senior Vice President of Imaging Solutions, United Imaging North America. “The Plantation facility reflects a strong vision for combining thoughtful design and a patient-centered approach to care; United Imaging’s technology is a perfect fit for this very advanced, modern facility. We’re thrilled with the feedback we’ve received on our equipment's image quality, ease of use, and patient comfort, as well as on the support our service teams provide locally.”

The newly renovated Plantation center is part of Akumin’s broader commitment to creating imaging environments that support comfort, efficiency and quality at every touchpoint. By continuing to invest in both technology and the care setting itself, Akumin is helping shape a more connected and elevated outpatient experience for patients and providers alike.

About Akumin

Akumin is a leading U.S. provider of advanced imaging and radiation oncology services, committed to excellence in patient care and expanding access to life-saving diagnostics and treatments. Serving millions annually, Akumin operates one of the nation’s largest networks of fixed-site radiology centers and mobile imaging and oncology solutions, including the innovative Akumin AXIS®. Partnering with over 800 hospitals and physician groups, Akumin combines clinical expertise, operational excellence, and advanced technology to broaden access, enhance care standards, and meet community needs. Through innovation and collaboration, Akumin is pioneering the future of patient-centered care. For more information, visit www.akumin.com.

About United Imaging

At United Imaging, we develop and produce advanced medical products, digital healthcare solutions, and intelligent systems that support the entire imaging diagnosis and treatment process. Founded in 2011, United Imaging operates subsidiaries and R&D centers worldwide. Our North American headquarters in Houston includes corporate offices, a manufacturing facility, product showroom, service training center, and service parts distribution center. Guided by our mission of Equal Healthcare for All™, we are committed to expanding access to high-quality medical imaging and driving meaningful progress in healthcare.

Plantation Mayor Nick Sortal (center), flanked by Henry Howe, CEO of Akumin (left), and Jeffrey Bundy, CEO of United Imaging North America (right), during the ribbon cutting ceremony.