An investment in the future

Marcelo Cuscuna is the Regional President of the German medical technology company Ottobock in Latin America.

Marcelo Cuscuna is the Regional President of the German medical technology company Ottobock in Latin America.

Mr Cuscuna, why is Ottobock promoting modern orthopaedic technology in Cuba?
We saw what Cuba needed. We wanted to demonstrate that it is possible to establish cooperation arrangements like this in a developing country. And we know that GIZ works with many companies and produces good results. The first phase of the project involved training 33 Cuban technicians, and fitting out the main workshop in Havana. Our commitment is designed as a medium- to long-term engagement.

Why did Ottobock choose Cuba in particular?
Firstly, it is the dream of our President Hans Georg Näder. But let’s not forget that Cuba offers great opportunities and a good foundation. Until the 1990s, Cuban medicine was exemplary and well developed. It is our goal to improve the quality of life of the people who live here. More and more patients on the island should benefit from good services.

What are the benefits of the project for the company?
Cuba is not yet a business proposition for Ottobock. It is more an investment in the future. It’s not a question of earning money immediately, although we do see the potential of the market. Over and above that though, we want to demonstrate our social responsibility.

published in akzente 2/18

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