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Eritrea: Global Ties and Diplomacy

March 17, 2014, 4:40 am
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Far from being isolated, Eritrea's global diplomatic ties is increasing. Photo: New Turkish Embassy in Eritrea. (Credit: Fırat Sunel) 

Eritrea: Global Ties and Diplomacy
FikreJesus Amahazion
fikrejesus87@gmail.com


In recent years, a number of commentators have regularly referred to Eritrea, a young, developing country located in the volatile Horn of Africa, as isolationist, the “North Korea” of Africa, or the “hermit kingdom.” While such statements suggest Eritrea remains detached from the global community, closer analysis reveals that they are clichéd, overly simplistic, and largely incorrect.

For example, the months since late December 2013 have witnessed: Eritrea’s President, Isaias Afewerki, travel to Qatar to promote cooperation and bilateral ties i; Eritrea host a UN delegation which noted Eritrea’s impressive progress towards achieving the UN Millennium Development Goalsii; Eritrea appoint 14 new Ambassadors to different countries and regional organizationsiii; the visit of Finland’s Minister for International Development, Pekka Haavisto, to promote international interaction and enhance the European Union’s (EU) dialogue with Eritrea iv; and Eritrea’s signing of several bilateral agreements with both Turkey and Russia.v Additionally, recent weeks saw Eritrea address the 25th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, and participate in the 58th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).vi

While far from a comprehensive list of Eritrea’s broad range of diplomatic activities, the examples offer a brief illustration of the country’s commitment to respectful, egalitarian, mutually beneficial partnerships with members of the international community.

A potentially more incisive tool to critically examine references to Eritrea being “isolationist” or the “hermit kingdom” is by considering the country’s memberships in international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), referred to as INGO ties. Popular within international, cross-comparative analyses in sociology and political science, INGO ties are typically utilized by researchers to capture a state’s level of embeddedness within world society. Simply, states with more INGO ties are more embedded in world society and states with less INGO ties are less embedded.

Utilizing data from the Yearbook of International Organizations, annually published by the Union of International Associations – described as providing the “most extensive information on organizations in the world” vii– Eritrea’s INGO ties per 100,000 citizens was 2.06 for the year 2005 and 2.04 for the year 2010. By comparison, for the years 2005 and 2010 respectively, per 100,000 citizens: Ethiopia had 0.52 and 0.47 ties; Sudan had 1.42 and 1.37 ties; Uganda had 1.98 and 1.78 ties; Tanzania had 1.54 and 1.34 ties; and Kenya had 2.47 and 2.2 ties.vii

Effectively, rather than isolation, the above data on INGO ties (summarized in Tables 1 and 2) suggest that Eritrea is amongst the most internationally embedded countries within its region.

Finally, another useful method to examine claims of Eritrea’s isolation is by considering its diplomatic representation abroad. Within sociology, international relations, and political science, diplomatic representation abroad has been seen as important for fostering and maintaining friendly relations between states, and between states and other actors. Amongst other things, it helps promote states’ socio-economic and political interests, while also encouraging understanding, coordination, and the solving of problems.ix

According to Eritrea’s Permanent Mission to the African Union (AU), Eritrea currently has 36 diplomatic missions abroad. By comparison, Kenya has 50, Uganda 31, Ethiopia 39, Tanzania 32, Sudan 64, and Djibouti 50.x However, considering the number of diplomatic missions in relation to the number of years since formal independence – an important factor in establishing diplomatic representation abroad – illustrates that Eritrea’s ratio is 1.7. By comparison, Kenya’s ratio of diplomatic missions abroad in relation to years since independence is 0.98, while Uganda’s is 0.6, Djibouti’s is 1.35, Sudan’s is 1.1, Tanzania’s is 0.6, and Ethiopia’s is 0.53. Simply, Eritrea establishes diplomatic missions abroad at a faster rate than its regional neighbors.

Overall, the preceding discussion suggests claims that Eritrea is isolationist, the “North Korea” of Africa, or the “hermit kingdom” are overly simplistic and incorrect - particularly when Eritrea’s neighbors are also examined. Moving forward, as Eritrea works toward improving the lives of its people, it should also continue to foster regional and global relations. Doing so will not only encourage regional peace and stability, but also support economic and general development.


                                              *Source: UIA 2011xi
                                                                              *Source: UIA 2011

REFERENCES 
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ihttp://shabait.com/news/local-news/16339-president-holds-more-
ii1. https://twitter.com/MarDieye/status/413407809120661504
  2. http://www.tesfanews.net/eritrea-making-impressive-progress
iiihttp://www.tesfanews.net/eritrea-appoints-14-ambassadors/
ivhttp://www.tesfanews.net/finlands-development-minister-heading 
  http://www.tesfanews.net/finlands-development-minister-heading-to-eritrea/
v1. http://www.tesfanews.net/turkey-and-eritrea-signed-civil-aviation-agreement/
  2. http://www.tesfanews.net/fifth-edition-of-eri-news-is-out/
  3. http://www.tesfanews.net/russia-eritrea-agree-to-boost-
vi1. http://www.madote.com/2014/03/eritrea-sixth-edition-bi-weekly.html
   2.http://www.scribd.com/doc/212581718/Eri-News-Issue-1-6-1
viiDrori, G., J. Meyer, F. Ramirez, and E. Schofer. 2003. Science in the Modern World
   Polity: Institutionalization and Globalization. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press.
viiiPopulation data: UN. 2012. World Population Prospects: The 2012 Revision.
    Available at: http://esa.un.org/unpd/wpp/Excel-Data/population.htm
ixNeumayer, E. 2008. “Distance, Power and Ideology: Diplomatic Representation in a
  World of Nation-States.” Area. 40 (2): 228-236.
xDiplomatic Missions Data collected from:
  1. Kenya Foreign Ministry: http://213.198.57.244/Kenya-Missions-abroad.69.0.html
  2. Uganda Foreign Ministry: http://www.mofa.go.ug/#
  3. Eritrea AU Mission: https://twitter.com/EritreaAU/status
  4. Sudan Foreign Ministry: http://www.mfa.gov.sd/index.php/2008-01-24-11-46-41.html
  5. Tanzania Foreign Ministry: http://www.foreign.go.tz/index.php/missions/
  6. Ethiopia Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.mfa.gov.et
xiUnion of International Associations and Yearbook of International Organizations
  See: http://www.uia.org/

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Eritrea to Build a 20 Million Cubic Meter Dam

March 17, 2014, 6:57 am
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Photo: Toker dam.

Eritrea to Build a 20 Million Cubic Meter Dam  

Eritrea is building a new 20 million cubic meter Tekera Dam to supply water to Asmara, a senior government official said.

The design and construction of the dam will be conducted by national experts and companies, the official added.

Since independence, Eritrea has built more than 300 agriculture and water reservoir dams to ensure food security and alleviate potable water shortages.



Related reading: Eritrea's Gergera dam is nearing completion
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Eritrea’s Support to South Sudan is Unwavering

March 18, 2014, 12:03 am
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Warm greetings between long-time friends, South Sudan President Salvia Kiir and his Eritrean counterpart, Isaias Afwerki - December 2013


Eritrea’s Support to South Sudan is Unwavering: Response to John Prendergast Testimony


By Afarh Negash,

In his testimony before the U.S. House of Foreign Affairs Committee on ‘U.S. Policy Towards Sudan and South Sudan’ delivered on February 26, John Prendergast made two preposterous points related to Eritrea. He said that “allegations are increasing” of Eritrean covert support to South Sudan opposition; and, if an “independent investigation” proved these allegations credible then the UN Security Council “should consider expanding the sanction” on Eritrea.

What possible reason could there be for Eritrea who has showed unwavering solidarity with the struggle of the people of South Sudan to seek to “destabilize” that country? And what triggers such claims when Eritrea had stated its views on the current crisis in South Sudan publicly on several occasions. For instance, in his recent interview President Isaias Afwerki stated his country’s policy on the situation in South Sudan as follow:

“the conflict is a result of mismanagement of the nation-building process exacerbated by selfishness of leaders like Rick Machar; that a sustainable solution can only be achieved through internal political process; and, that the role of the international community should only be one that supports the government of President Kiir’s effort to consummate the complex and daunting task of nation-building. Moreover, Eritrea has reiterated to a visiting South Sudanese delegation that its commitment and support to the people and government of South Sudan is unflinching.”

Although Prendergast has not identified his sources, it is clear that he was repeating the allegations made by Ethiopia. According to multiple diplomatic sources, during the latest African Union Summit held this past January in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian Prime Minister was busy trying to convince the present delegations of Eritrea’s support for Riek Machar.

This is not surprising. Demonizing Eritrea is the central goal of Ethiopia’s regional policy. To this end, the Ethiopian Government has made a habit of concocting baseless allegations against Eritrea. Ethiopia, with the help of the US, has been bullying countries of the region to publicly accuse Eritrea of fabricated wrongdoings, or to at least not contradict its claims of Eritrea made on their behalf.

Officials in Addis Ababa take it up on themselves to analyze Eritrea’s relationship with the countries of the Horn. They unabashedly twist any positive developments and make mendacious claims to tarnish Eritrea’s image. Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn was candid enough to publicly admit that his Government has “a standing policy…to announce time and again that Eritrean regime is destabilizing the region, the Horn of Africa, not Ethiopia but the whole region.”

In its bid to maintain a political pressure on Eritrea, Ethiopia has continued its effort to falsely link Eritrea with crises in the region, many of which fomented by Ethiopia itself. As the initial and subsequent allegations made to impose and maintain the sanctions continue to prove false, many members of the Security Council are advocating for the lifting of the sanctions on Eritrea.

Ethiopia, afraid this sudden change in the mood of the international community may go after its refusal to implement the arbitration decision on its borders with Eritrea, is engaged in a frantic diplomatic and public relations campaign. In a leaked memo sent to some Ethiopian embassies including the ones in Sudan and South Sudan, the Foreign Minister instructed the embassies to make sure the sanctions on Eritrea are not lifted.

One thing that has become overtly clear to many in the international community is that since the imposition of sanctions on Eritrea, those who made allegations have yet to come up with concrete evidence. Despite the attempts made to link Eritrea with al Shabab, neither the accusing countries nor the Somalia Eritrea Monitoring Group have managed to produce evidence implicating Eritrea. Furthermore, attempts made to tie Eritrea to al-Shabab only resulted in making a mockery of UN Security Council members, causing some of them to take measures including blocking the Report of the Group on Eritrea.

Although the facts above speak for themselves, Prendergast and his ilk continue to peddle unfounded allegations. It is indeed unfortunate that US policy in the Horn of Africa is being steered by pundits whose goal is to perpetuate conflicts rather than to bring peace to the Horn, a region whose citizens are suffering from perpetual conflicts. In this event, using Eritrea as a scapegoat for the failure of their misguided policies, waging propaganda campaigns to defame the country, victimizing the people of Eritrea through sanctions, as well as aiding and abetting Ethiopia to continue its occupation of Eritrean territories will neither solve the intricate problems of the Horn nor will it help US interests in the region.

Related reading: Eritrea Slams South Sudan Rebel Leader Riek Machar


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Meet Eritrean Rapper 'Bags'

March 18, 2014, 9:12 am
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Kibrom Endirias aka 'Bags'

BAGS

The first American-born Eritrean in his family, which included 5 older siblings, Kibrom Endirias has always been different. The elder Endirias moved the household from their war-torn East African country to Indiana before finally settling in the Atlanta suburb of Decatur, GA when Kibrom was a month old to start a ministry. As the son of a preacher, Kibrom grew up in a deeply spiritual family and spent a lot of time in church listening to sermons and occasionally singing in the choir.

At the age of 14, he began penning novels, poems and raps while in high school adopting the moniker Money Bags for the cash he received from classmates that paid for his rhymes. During his teenage years, Kibrom dealt with temptations that were contrary to his strict religious upbringing and as he grew older he began to rebel against the life prescribed to him by his parents. A line was drawn. Money Bags was unwilling to abandon his musical ambitions, while his family refused to compromise their religious roots. The path they had charted for their son didn’t include a profession in the entertainment business, which caused another kind of war. “I’ve been torn my whole life,” explains Bags. “I’m appreciative of the sacrifices my parents have made but I had to choose my own destiny and the life I wanted to live.  Music is my passion and my purpose and if anything I learned from my family how to fight for what I believe in.”

Disheartened but not deterred, Money Bags morphed into just Bags and turned to music as a creative outlet to channel his personal frustration. The more he chronicled his life to beats he helped structure around his vocals, the more confident he grew in his abilities as both a writer and performing artist. His unpredictable fluid delivery and dexterous long-form narratives earned him a reputation as an undefeatable rapper amongst Atlanta’s underground hip-hop scene. And given him a solid fan base in the process.“I’ve done open mics, showcases, talent shows and won everything. There’s not a contest or competition in the city that I haven’t performed at and killed.”

Bags has shared stages with Young Dro, Nipsey Hussle and Trinidad James, as well as performed multiple times at the annual music and interactive festival SXSW in Austin, TX, which gave him the critical respect he wanted and deserved.  His visibility as an all-encompassing entertainer also gave him a platform to diversify his skill set, having ghost written for several r&b and pop acts. “This industry has perfected my hustle. If I couldn’t find someone to sing my hooks, I sang them.  If I needed a video done, I shot it.  I’m multifaceted in every way.”

While secular music was forbidden in the Endirias home, Bags was able to discover artists and rap legends such as Bob Marley, Eminem, Biggie, Jay Z, Outkast and Kanye by listening to his older brothers music in the car.  It’s easy to detect their influence on his passion, drive and hunger to be amongst that pantheon of great talent. “I never want to lose focus on why I started doing music. Nobody can get too big for music; there’s not a check big enough for me to say the quality of the music doesn’t matter anymore.”

Bags introduced his brash southern dialect on a pair of projects he dropped with little fanfare to hone his mixtape circuit skills before releasing Bags Fly Free on Dat Piff hosted by Hoodrich DJ Pretty Boy Tank. The buzz he created on the well-received tape helped to take his rap career to the next level. Currently signed to DDB Entertainment, the street-savvy African rapper with American finesse is gearing up for another major release with the single “Geeker” leading the way.  The track is perfect example of his unique flow and personality; a mid-tempo bass-heavy beat with Bags riding the rhythm with equal parts bravado, humor and innovative lyrics. Secure with where he is as a man and an artist, the East African rapper from East Atlanta is committed to spreading his brand of hip-hop gospel all over the world. “Music is all I do.  I put so much into every aspect of my career that if I’m not doing music I feel like something is wrong.”

To listen to his single "Geeker", visit here: www.soundcloud.com/bags1365 

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Secret Ethiopian Government Documents About Eritrea Leaked

March 18, 2014, 9:14 am
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Secret documents written by Ethiopia's Foreign Ministry, Tedros Andhanom Ghebreyesus, shows how far his desperate and decaying regime is going to maintain the illegal and unjust sanctions against Eritrea.


Secret Ethiopian Government Documents About Eritrea Leaked  

The Eritrean Ministry of Information has leaked secret documents belonging to the Ethiopian regime that urges its officials around the world to counter Eritrea’s successful diplomatic offensive in a desperate bid to maintain the illegal sanctions on Eritrea

The documents, which were written by the Ethiopian Foreign Minister, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, orders all Ethiopian diplomats and heads of missions to start immediate diplomatic activities and lobbying works within their respective host states.

The Foreign Minster emphasized the majority of the task should be conducted through its Ambassadors in Canada, United States, Australia, Israel, North and South Sudan, Denmark, UK, Germany, France, Norway, and Italy.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted the sanction resolutions could not be lifted as long as the United Stated, who still holds the ‘pencil’ of their engineering, did not change its stance on Eritrea.

The document concludes by stressing the need to use the regional body IGAD as a cover for Ethiopia's activities against Eritrea.


The following are the leaked Ethiopian documents courtesy of the Eritrean Ministry of Information:






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Eritrea: Land of Promise

March 19, 2014, 12:13 am
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Eritrea: Land of Promise

By Final Kilometre,

It was former UCI President Pat McQuaid who pushed for the global expansion of the sport, around 2009, when Cycling was quite stagnant. The same races were competed by riders from the same nations, with a few exceptions but not many. Tour of Oman, Tour of Dubai and the Montreal and Quebec classic races didn’t exist, to name just a few. A large portion of the world wasn’t involved and didn’t care about cycling. Fast forward to 2014, and things have changed. A Slovakian cycling superstar, and Britain is arguably one of the most successful nations in the sport. Go further down the ladder and there’s an even more diverse scene of riders from countries who may not yet be making waves on the World Tour, but will be in the future.

It gave me the idea of a series of profiling nations who you may not even know competed in cycling, yet have promising futures.

I start with Eritrea. A small country in west Africa, relatively poor for many years and a conflict with Ethiopia, which used to be part of Eritrea for many years, dominated the Eritrean landscape. Now more affluent and peaceful, the Eritrean people have turned back to a sport that they dearly love, cycling. Dating back to the Italian occupation of Eritrea up to the 1940′s, Eritrea have had cycling in their blood. The Tour of Eritrea (Or Giro d’Eritrea, as it is known in the native Italian tongue) ran for two years in the 1940′s and captured the imagination of the locals. In 2001, it was brought back as a celebration of 10 years of Eritrean independence and has fueled the desire of Eritrean cycling ever since. In 2013, Eritrea won 4 of the 7 events at the African cycling championships, including a fourth successive victory in the Men’s Road Race. This is why I chose to start my series with Eritrea.

Daniel Teklehaimanot

An obvious choice to start with when talking about Eritrean cycling. The only black African rider, let alone Eritrean rider, to ride for a World Tour team when he joined Orica-GreenEdge in 2012. His first breakthrough was on the African continent, when he finished 5th overall in the Tour de la Paix in the Ivory Coast at just the age of 19, finishing ahead of riders such as Nicholas Roche. He took it upon himself to move to the UCI World cycling centre in Aigle, Switzerland in 2009 and rode prestigious amateur races with the team. He came 6th overall in the Tour de l’Avenir, the U-23 Tour de France, and was 2nd overall including 2 stage wins in the Tour of Eritrea. In 2010, he was 1st in the African Championships Road Race, Individual Time Trial and Team Time Trial and 1st overall in the Tour of Rwanda. This was the catalyst for his leap up to World Tour level, with interest from ProContinental teams already. He stayed in the amateur ranks for one more year, and it paid off. He won the ITT and TTT at the African Championships again, and won Kwita Izina Tour overall (with 3 stage wins). He was courted by 4 World Tour teams but chose Orica-GreenEdge. His first season was a steep learning curve, but he continued to win National and African championships and was the first Black African to race in a Grand Tour when he rode the Vuelta a Espana. His 2013 season was plagued by visa issues, but he’s moved to the African MTN-Qhubeka team for 2014 and hopes to be a leader in their World Tour races, hopefully including entry as a Wildcard to the Vuelta. Although Daniel has had a hard time adjusting to the pro peloton, he has been a pioneer for Eritrean cyclists and is still only 25, with many years of riding still ahead.

                                                         Daniel Teklehaimont

Natnael Berhane

Natnael Berhane burst on to the scene at a mere 19 years of age in the 2010 Tour of Eritrea, winning one stage and the overall classification. He won the African Road Race Championship in 2011 and 2012, and won the 2012 Tour of Algeria, after coming 3rd in the 2011 version. This led to him signing as pro contract with the Europcar team for 2013, competing at the ProContinental level. He got a good win in the African Championships TTT but his real breakthrough was in May at the Tour of Turkey where he produced a fine ride to win the Queen Stage. He finished Second overall on the road, but was promoted to First overall when previous winner Mustapha Sayer was banned for testing positive. In 2014, he’s already started well with the overall victory at the La Tropicale Amissa Bongo, becoming the first African winner of the race based in Gabon. 2014 may well bring more victories for Berhane, but at just 23 he is one of the most talented riders about with great scope to improve. It will be interesting to see how Europcar’s step up to World Tour level affects him and whether he can become a trailblazer for cycling, even more than Teklehaimanot.

                                                              Natnael Berhane

Merhawi Kudus

Merhawi Kudus is in my opinion the most promising out of the 3 Eritrean’s I’ve been describing here. At 18, he won a stage and wore the Yellow Jersey in the Tour of Rwanda, before a stellar 2013 which included 1st overall and a stage win at the Tour de Cote d’Or in France, 1st in the Freccia dei Vini in Italy and a stage winner in the Tour of Eritrea. He also came 2nd overall in the Vuelta Ciclista a Leon in Spain. This doesn’t just show promise from African based races, he’s come to Europe at a very young age and won races against Europeans used to the culture and the conditions. In an article by Gregor Brown for Cycling Weekly, John-Lee Augustyn said “He’s so light on the bike, He’s got skinny legs but they travel fast”. Kudus said himself that “It’s better being on the team with other Eritrean’s like Daniel Teklehaimanot”. Kudus has already shown great promise this year, his first as a professional with the MTN-Qhubeka team, with a 2nd overall place in the 10 stage Tour de Langkawi. Kudus will be riding some major races but not the hardest that MTN will be entering this year, with the Settimana Internazionale Coppi E Bartali at the end of March one to look out for him.

                                                            Merhawi Kudus

I think what Kudus says is important, “It’s better being on the team with other Eritrean’s”. The adjustment to European life and European culture is the huge factor in whether we can see African/Eritrean riders win some major races. These guys are prodigiously talented but if they are not happy off the bike, motivation can wane and performances suffer. Africa in general is a hugely untapped source of talent in cycling, and although the infrastructure for races may not yet be readily available, having African heroes delivering great performances could provide realistic dreams for these guys. As a continent, Africa uses the bike possibly more than any, with it being the main vehicle for many around the continent. I’m confident that the guys I’ve portrayed can be hugely successful and maybe, in 20 years time we could be discussing Eritrea as one of the powerhouses of world cycling.
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Eritrea Appoints New Chief of Staff and Minister

March 19, 2014, 12:19 am
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Eritrea appoints Major General Philipos Woldeyohannes as the New Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Armed Forces

Eritrea Appoints New Chief of Staff and Minister

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki appoints Woldemikael Abraha as the minister of Regional Governments and Philipos Woldeyohannes as the Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Defense Forces, a senior official said.

The appointment of Major General Philipos comes less than two weeks after the former Chief of Staff, Major General Geregiher Andemariam 'Wuchu', passed away from an unspecified illness.

The government says these appointments are part of an ongoing restructuring and reorganization process at all levels of administrations, ministries, PFDJ bodies and national associations to ensure political dynamism and effective management.


Major General Philipos Woldeyohannes 

Woldemichael Abraha (center), Minister of  Transport and Communications



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Construction of the largest dam in Eritrea is nearly completed

March 20, 2014, 12:09 pm
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Gergera Dam will supply electricity and potable water when completed

Construction of the largest dam in Eritrea is nearly completed


Construction of Gergera Dam, which began in late 2010 near the town of Teramni, is at an 'advanced stage', a government spokesman said on Thursday.

When completed the dam will supply water to the towns of Mendefera, and Dekemhare, as well as provide electricity, the official added.

Built along a gorge, Gergera dam will be the largest cyclopean masonry dam in the country, and will have the capacity of holding 35 million cubic meter of water.

On Monday, Eritrea announced it will build Tekera Dam that will have the capacity to hold 20 million cubic meter of water to supply Asmara and its environs.

Since independence, Eritrea has built more than 300 agriculture and water reservoir dams to ensure food security and alleviate potable water shortages.



A list of some of the larger dams in Eritrea

NameLocationCapacityStatus___________
Gergera Dam
Teramni, Eritrea
35 million cubic
Nearly Completed
Tekera Dam
Undisclosed
20 million cubic
To be Constructed
Toker Dam
17 million cubic
Completed
Aligider Dam
Aligider, Eritrea
7.5 million cubic
Completed

Source: Ministry of Information and Madote.com















Note: This is just a list of large dams in the country. Large dams such as Gerset and Sememo are omitted because their capacity wasn't disclosed, even though they are probably larger than Aligider Dam. 

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What Foreigners Are Saying About Eritrea

March 21, 2014, 9:01 am
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Pushkin Square in Asmara

What Foreigners Are Saying About Eritrea

When it comes to foreigners describing Eritrea, you will get different opinions based on their profession. For journalists and authors such as Michael Wrong and Dan Connell, they will describe Eritrea as being the worst place on Earth even though they haven't been in the country in years. And when they did visit Eritrea, they didn't describe the country the way they are describing it today.

So what changed?

The main reason why Wrong and Connell hold extreme negative views about Eritrea that goes against their own experiences when they did visit the country is because they are being motivated by financial gains. These individuals have written dozens of books and articles about Eritrea for profit. They learned early on the more sensational the story;  the more profit they can potentially earn. As a result, Wrong and Connell's descriptions of Eritrea went from "Africa's little Italy" to "Africa's North Korea". Their descriptions of Eritreans went from a "patriotic and proud people" to "a nation of slaves". These extreme descriptions are given by the same individuals separated by less than half a decade. Either Wrong and Connell are bipolar or they learned extreme negative descriptions pays more.

Beyond the monetary gains, another thing that is motivating these individuals to not only lie about Eritrea but also arrogantly think they are vital to the success of the country could be because they suffer from the White Savior Complex. These individuals support brutal policies against Eritreans in the morning (sanctions), fund charities/NGOs to lure migrants out of the country in the afternoon, and receive awards/pats on the back for writing stories about the ordeal in the evening. In essence, they are being rewarded for their human rights violations (supporting sanctions) and human trafficking (luring people out of the country), all because they sell stories soccer moms in the West like to read. In many ways, these middle aged slacktivist are Eritrea's version of the phony Kony 2012 movement.

For the foreigners whose profession does not involve selling stories, they typically have positive things to say about Eritrea. They tend to describe the country with a balanced perspective; giving the good and the bad. In fact, for many of them, their experiences in Eritrea is the main reason that led them to invest in the country. So when it comes to foreigners' opinions about a country, those that do business inside the country are the ones who are tend to be the most genuine since they wouldn't risk their own money on a country if they didn't believe the country wasn't how they were describing it.

The following are quotes mostly made by foreigners who are doing business in Eritrea or reporters quoting what foreigners working in Eritrea told them. As you can see, these people's version of Eritrea is completely different from the extremely negative descriptions Wrong and Connell are selling for profit.



"....the feelings and views shared by folks who live and work there [Eritrea] are far different than the opinions of outsiders. One gentleman said he feels safer in Asmara than he does at some places in the UK."— Daniel T. Cook


"Google 'Eritrea', read all the trash, and then go see for yourself. You'll be pleasantly surprised."— Unnamed Tourist


"A visit to Eritrea defies many of the preconceived notions and stereotypes surrounding the country. We believe that Eritrea is a more favourable destination for foreign investment in mining than it is given credit.” — Raymond James


We really trust the [Eritrean] government. We really like working in Eritrea. There is no petty theft. There is no underhandedness. It's a straight forward place to operate. — Michael Horley


Asmara is considered to be one of the most beautiful and safest capital cities in Africa and I can certainly attest to that. — Michael Horley


"Higher ups point to the lack of corruption. Nearly "corruption-less" sounds like a stretch, but that's how many are advertising Eritrea."— Daniel T. Cook


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Two Eritrean Generals and One Veteran Fighter Passed Away in Tragic Car Accident

March 21, 2014, 9:38 am
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Two Eritrean Generals and one veteran fighter passed away in a tragic car accident 


Two Eritrean Generals and One Veteran Fighter Passed Away in Tragic Car Accident 

Brigadier General Tekleab Mebrahtu (Vainak), Brigadier General Amanuel Haile (Hanjema) and Tgadalay Desu Tesfatsion passed away on 20 March at 4:30 P.M. due to a car accident.

The veteran combatants encountered the accident around Ab-Dirbabo while they were on their way to participate at the 30th anniversary celebrations of the demise of Wukaw Iz.

On behalf of Madote, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of these heroic fighters. May they rest in eternal peace.


Images of the fighters who passed away 


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Eritrean Cyclist Mekseb Debesay Wins 3rd Stage of Tour of Setif

March 21, 2014, 6:14 pm
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Mekseb Debesay and Yonas Tekeste winning first and second places for Team Eritrea

Eritrean Cyclist Mekseb Debesay Wins 3rd Stage of Tour of Setif in Algeria 

Eritrean Cyclist Mekseb Debesay won the third and final stage of the International Tour of Setif  in Algeria with the time of 2 hours 28 min 09 sec, edging out his compatriot Yonas Tekeste and  Dutchman Thomas Rabou (Singapore Continental Cycling), who finished second and third, respectively.

The red jersey, awarded to the best sprinter, was won by Mekseb Debesay, while the coveted yellow jersey was won by the French Thomas Lebas of the Japanese team Bridgeston.

"I congratulate Lebas Thomas for the win. It was hotly contested at the end. Unfortunately, I was more than 2 minutes behind in the general classification... I wear the red jersey for best sprinter, which is still a good thing." Mekseb Debesay said.

The Eritrean team finished third in team standings behind Japan and Russia.


Overall Ranking

1 - Lebas Thomas (Bridgeston / Japan): 7:53: 47

2 - Belykh Dergey (Team 21/Russie): 59 sec

3 - Shaimuratov Artur (Team 21/Russie) in 2'17 sec

4 - Mekseb Debesay (Eritrea) to 2'41

5 - Damien Monier (Bridgeston / Japan) at 2'49

6 - Salah Eddine Mraouni (Morocco) to 2'59

7 - Pinaglia Thomas (Gragnano / Italy) to 2'59

8 - Shimizu Miyataka (Bridgeston / Japan): 3'45

9 - Elyas Afewerki (Eritrea) to 4'23 ::

10 - Zhuykov Denis (Team 21/Russie) to 4'21

Team standings:

1 - Cycling Bridgeston Anchor (Japan): 11:47 p.m.: 49

2 - Team 21 (Russia): 11:48 p.m.: 52

3 - National Team Eritrea: 11:50 p.m.: 46

4 - National Team Morocco: 11:58 p.m.: 31

5 - Athletic Association of Oil (Algeria): 24:15: 45

Order jerseys:

Lebas Thomas (Bridgeston / Japan): yellow and polka dot jerseys

Shaimuratov Artur (Team 21/Russia): white jersey

Mekseb Debesay (Eritrea): red jersey


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Eritrea: the Heroism of Martyr Breigeder General 'Vaynak'

March 23, 2014, 8:34 am
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Breigeder General Mebrahtu Tekleab (Vaynak)


The Heroism of Martyr Breigeder General 'Vaynak'

By Yacob Cali,

I knew Breigeder General Vaynak in the late '70s when I was a kid in Asmara. He was a tough urban fighter (fedayin), and I was a sympathizer of their struggle.

One Saturday in the late '70s, I received a message from Mama Hanisu. Mama Hanisu was a mother figure to all urban fighters. She used to live around Cinema Roma in Asmara. She told me that I needed two more colleagues to do surveillance on a mass murderer nicknamed "Crocodile" and his accomplice, an Eritrean man, whose name I had since forgotten. I did as Mama Hanisu instructed me and brought along my friends, martyr Ibrahim Adem and martyr Kesete Tekle, to conduct our surveillance.

The next morning, we began to follow Crocodile and his friend from Nyala hotel all the way to the Gospel Hall church. Crocodile was a mass murderer. He killed more than ten innocent Asmarinos inside Bar Oriente. He used to carry an assault rifle Uzi in a shopping bag. It was around Cinema Roma that I approached Crocodile and his criminal friend next to him. I said, "mastika alona shigara". Crocodile didn't buy anything but his partner in crime bought one packet of Rothman cigarettes. It was then that I noticed the terrible Uzi was inside his shopping bag, and realized those two bastards were ready to commit a crime anywhere at anytime.

The two monsters ascended to Askala hanakis (City Center Cafe) and turned right to club Tele and went in to Gospen Hall. Martyr Ibrahim Adem, Martyr kesete Tekle and I followed them and entered Gospen Hall just five minutes after them. The time was around 08:45 am. The Sundey prayer didn't start yet. Papa Bereket was playing the piano until the bible study began. All together there were 15 people in the Gospel Hall. After my friends and I sat in the first row bench, martyr BG Vaynak came in dressed in a brown suit and he put his dark eyeglasses on and called me to come out. He asked me where the two criminals sat. I told him that they are sitting in the second row on the right side of crocodile and on the left side of the hasus. Then for some unknown reason Martyr Vaynak instead of killing crocodile first, he killed the hasus with three bullets and then three bullets to Crocodile's back. Panic ensued and people started to hide everywhere. Martyr Vaynak asked "tekarijen do?" ( are they dead). I was mad with martyr Vaynak because I wanted him first to kill Crocodile. Unfortunately, I later learned within 10 minutes of the shooting, Crocodile got up and killed a 17-years-old innocent girl from geza Kenisha and shot Papa Bereket on his bicep. Later that evening, Crocodile died at hospital of from his injuries.

After the shooting martyr Vaynak ran through the alley of Bar Gash Setit towards Cinema Capitol. Just 8 minutes after the mission Ethiopia air born (ayer weled) arrived at the seen, however they didn't know the exact location. I needed to kill at least 5-10 minutes for martyr Vaynak to disappear from the area. I told Martyr Ibrahim Adem and Martyr Kested to fight in front of Bini camera repair shop. The air born crew  liked the fight because martyr Ibrahim was Very muscular and martyr Kesete was a tiny kid and had the upper hand in the fight.

I admired martyr Vaynak for his courage, and for his elimination of numerous criminals in Asmara, especially that of Haile Abay, the leader of Nech Lebash. The Tigrayan Haile had around 15 Tigrayan bodyguards in Asmara. This criminal used to torture and kill anyone at anytime in Asmara. Martyr Vaynak ended his reign of terror after killing him in Edaga Arbi in broad daylight.

To the families of our martyrs: my prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
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President Isaias Afwerki Receives Award from Rashaida Elders

March 24, 2014, 8:52 am
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President Isaias Afwerki in Sahel


President Isaias Afwerki Receives Award from Rashaida Elders

Updated: 1:16 PM EST - fixed video issues

President Isaias Afwerki received an award from Rasiahda elders in Sahel during 30th anniversary celebrations of the demise of Wukaw Iz.

Towards the end of the short clip, it appears a camel was slaughtered in President Isaias' honor, which in Bedouin traditions, is sign of great respect.

The Rashaida are one of two Arab groups who migrated to Eritrea in the 19th century after clan warfare erupted in the Arabian Peninsula. The second Arab group in the country are the Adeni Arabs.




PIA's Speech in Sahel


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World Tuberculosis Day 2014: Insight on Eritrea’s Tuberculosis Reduction

March 25, 2014, 8:08 am
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Eritrean students from Adulis Junior School being taught about Tuberculosis through a play (Credit: Didier Ruef)


     World Tuberculosis Day 2014: Insight on Eritrea’s Tuberculosis Reduction
                                                Fikrejesus Amahazion
                                              fikrejesus87@gmail.com


According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 9 million people per year are infected with Tuberculosis (TB), with the large majority of these cases located within the world’s poorest, least developed countries.i

In Eritrea, a young, developing country, TB has long been a significant public health issue – representing a major cause of morbidity and mortality – and an influential factor in severe economic loss and the exacerbation of poverty.ii

However, since 1996, Eritrea’s Ministry of Health and the Tuberculosis Control Unit have focused on implementing a multisectoral approach that integrates holistic care, support, and treatment programs (all free of charge).iii Importantly, prevention has also been a priority, particularly in order to reduce overall health and medical costs. For example, TB sensitization and education programs have regularly been conducted in schools, public venues, and rural communities, while TV programs, newspapers, posters, and brochures have raised general awareness.iv

Consequently, Eritrea has made impressive progress in reducing the incidence of TB. According to the World Bank (2012), across the 1996-2012 period, Eritrea reduced its incidence of tuberculosis (per 100,000 people) from 191 to 93, a reduction of 51%. By comparison, in neighboring countries, current TB incidence (per 100,000 people) and trends over the same time period are: 247 in Ethiopia (42% decrease); 114 in Sudan (26% decrease); 286 in Somalia; 165 in Tanzania (27% decrease); 312 in Kenya (48% decrease); and 255 for Sub-Saharan Africa (11% decrease).v

Overall, Eritrea’s rapid, remarkable progress in reducing TB incidence – standing out both regionally and across the continent – illustrates the merits of a multisectoral approach and the benefits of prevention-based measures. Moving forward, with a sustained national commitment to TB reduction, and the admirable efforts of hard-working volunteers and employees, Eritrea can continue to improve the health and development of its greatest asset – its citizens


Figure 1
                                                           
                                                                                              Source: World Bank 2012

Figure 2
Source: World Bank 2012

References
iWHO World TB Day
iiUNAIDS ERI Narrative Report 2012
iiiWHO Press Material
ivUNAIDS ERI Narrative Report 2012
vWorld Bank Data

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Eritrea: Funeral Ceremony for Martyrs Vaynac, Hanjema, and Desu

March 26, 2014, 8:26 am
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Brigadier General Amanuel Haile "Hanjema" at work - R.I.P (Credit: Sophia Tesfamariam)

Eritrea: Funeral Ceremony for Martyrs Vaynac, Hanjema, and Desu


Funeral ceremony of the late veteran fighters Brig. General Mebrahtu Tekleab (Vaynac), Brig. General Amanuel Haile (Hanjema) and Mr. Desu Tesfatsion was conducted today, Wednesday 26 March at Asmara Patriots Cemetery.

The veteran freedom fighters passed away in a car accident last Thursday at Ab-Dirbabu area along Massawa-Mahmimt road while they were travelling to take part in the 30th anniversary celebrations of the demise of Wiqaw Iz.






Images of Brigadier General Amanuel Haile "Hanjema" -Photos courtesy of Sophia Tesfamariam

Brigadier General Amanuel Haile "Hanjema"

 Sebhat Ephrem, Ministry of Defense (L), Sophia Tesfamariam (C), General Hanjema (R)

Sophia Tesfamariam and B.G. Hanjema
Sophia Tesfamariam and B.G. Amanuel 

Sophia Tesfamariam and B.G. Hanjema



Image of Brigadier General Mebrahtu Tekleab (Vaynak)

Brigadier General Mebrahtu Tekleab "Vaynak"


Image of Veteran Fighter Desu Tesfatsion


Veteran Fighter Desu Tesfatsion


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Wuchu, Vaynak, Hanjema, Desu Heroes that Capture the Eritrean Spirit

March 26, 2014, 11:04 am
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Maj. Gen Gerezghier "Wuchu" Andemariam Memorial - (Credit: Seble Ephrem)


Wuchu, Vaynak, Hanjema,Desu Heroes that Capture the Eritrean Spirit

By Amanuel Biedemariam,

One of the most remarkable achievements of Eritrea is that Eritrea stands as the only nation in Africa that gained independence on her own. Eritrea won independence with grit, cunning-wit, determination, hard-work, blood, sweat and tears. Eritrea won independence by unprecedented-unparalleled human force determined to uproot foreign enslavement. Eritrea won independence by paying dear blood with the sacrifice of the beloved. Eritrea won with the belief that only Eritreans can ascertain complete victory and gain independence. Eritrea won by defeating all foreign forces. What Eritrea accomplished is the least written about historical event(s) in the world-particularly as it pertains to African history.

Eritrea is the only country in Africa that cleansed the entire country from any foreign intrusion by force, yanked the system in Ethiopia that was supported by Super Powers, put in place a system that favored her. As General Sebhat Efrem said, “Eritrea picked Eritrea’s documents from the dustbin of the UN- archives, dusted-it-off and handed them back after rewriting the history anew.”

Eritrea’s victories required a belief, vision, commitment and sacrifices. It required a strong mindset that transcended basic human tendencies in order to accomplish these seemingly impossible historic achievements. Major General Ghebrezghier Andemariam (Wuchu), Brg. General Mebrahtu (Vaynak), Brg. General Amanuel (Hanjema) and Tegadalay Desu Tesfatsion were the embodiment of that history.

Eritrea is endowed with plenty of men and women that exemplify heroism. At times, that uniformity makes telling individual stories difficult because it is somewhat-discriminatory. However, their untimely passing makes telling Eritrea’s rich heroic stories that-more urgent.

In the late 60s-1978 Eritreans flocked to join the arms struggle for liberation in large numbers. Young Eritreans from all walks-of-life left comforts of their homes in the cities and villages to join the struggle. They joined to save the people of Eritrea from Ethiopian brutality that torched villages; Ethiopian troops that brutally raped their wives, daughters, sisters and shamelessly dismembered their breasts; Ethiopian troops that surrounded villages and gunned down entire families. It is these endless atrocities that strengthened the resolve of these men.

Eritreans were considered advanced educationally, technically and many areas relative to other African countries then. However, Eritrea’s expertise on social, political, financial, economic, medical, military and other core areas was limited or nonexistent during the struggle. Eritrea did not have the experience and experts necessary to satisfy the struggle and beyond. The people that joined then did not have the experience. Hence, developing indigenous expertise on many areas was imperative.

Considering the amount of hurdles and loss of life Eritrea experienced; developing experts was nearly impossible. However, by necessity Eritrea had no choice but to nurture all the expertise needed in order to achieve independence and beyond. Undeterred by the obstacles, with the belief of relying on-self, Eritrea was able to gradually build extensive human resources capacity in every field. That stands as one incredible history of a collective human achievement unparalleled in modern African history.

These men were amongst the first product as well as directors of that effort. They became Eritrea’s generals and leaders by determination, hard work and the desire to acquire the knowledge and expertise necessary to help them fulfill their aim.

The world is full of stories of heroic men and women. These men however were amongst the best the world has ever seen. Relatively, the achievements of these heroes are as great if not greater in many areas. The layers of achievements are of historic proportions. These were amongst the first military men and women that were tasked to accomplish the impossible and did masterfully with unparalleled valor. They were dedicated humble men of the people. Their stories are special and a testament of Eritrea’s past success; evidenced by the successful platform that they helped establish which is serving as trajectory for the brighter future of Eritrea.

Their accomplishments, while collectively Eritrean and credit to those who sacrificed alongside them, are unmatched by their counterparts outside Eritrea. To count some of their achievements:

Tenure: each of these heroes’ served 40+ years, without break; taking Eritrea through many phases, dealing with adversities, vicissitudes while going through all the human and personal challenges.

Adaptability: From the beginning of the struggle Eritrea went through many challenges and changes that required dynamic personalities to deal with dynamic situations. The easy way to understand the change Eritrea underwent from the beginning of the struggle is the motto, “Nitsela-i bitiyutu b-biretu,” Tigrigna for, “hitting the enemy with his arms and bullets.” The Eritrean struggle started with nothing. Today, Eritrea is endowed with formidable navy armed with technologically advanced modern armaments and fleet. These men along with their compatriots lead Eritrea through these changes.

Victories: to claim that one is amongst the best, we must look at some of the adversaries they faced. Eritrea, by extension these heroes, faced the world’s greatest powers repeatedly and came out victorious. These heroes were forced to stand directly or indirectly against Soviet Union, US, Yemen, Israel and Cuban forces and came out victorious. Ethiopian commanders and generals meant nothing to these heroes since that constantly came-out-on-top defeating all of them. Eritrea is littered with dead Ethiopian high ranking officers. Every year Eritrea celebrates these milestones by highlighting the names of these generals such as Nadew, and Demise IZ etc…evidence of the bravery of these men that trampled over enemy soldiers.

Strength: These heroes were amongst the strongest men that ever lived. They were strong mentally-and-physically, resilient, iron-willed and determined-men that finished what they started. Nowadays generals are mostly relegated to central command centers to direct troops. These men however were on the trenches, every-step of the way in the hills and valleys directing armies in battle in the line of fire for decades. Considering the amount of hostilities Eritrea faces their strength translated into the strength of the people while they drew strength from the people that they loved and fought- for.

Strategizing: These heroes are the reflection of the Eritrean wit that outwitted the world, literally. They outsmarted Ethiopia’s strategies every step of the way and methodically annihilated Ethiopian presence and ascertained independence. Furthermore, when the TPLF started the war of aggression against Eritrea they foiled TPLF/Western agendas and made all their attempts null and void. Their brilliant strategic approaches bought Eritrea time, respite and room necessary to grow from within. Their work is sustaining Eritrea to date.

Politically: The politics of Eritrea is the product of a brilliant strategy that the EPLF engrained in the psych of Eritreans. It is “Hafash Yinkah Y-wedeb Yi-Teatek” Tigrignya for, “The Masses must be educated, organized and armed.” The masses of Eritrea are very educated about the politics that involves Eritrea and beyond. Eritreans are organized and armed mentally and militarily to be able to deal with all adversities. One of the most brilliant examples of this is when the TPLF and their handlers claimed that Eritreans need to be armed to incite chaos the government of Eritrea in turn armed every Eritrean to the dismay of the enemies. There exists no country in the world with this confidence on its population. Only in Eritrea, only Eritrea can pull this off. It is the political education that these men nurtured which is sustaining Eritrea.

Socially/Economically: The US is known for the US Army Corps of Engineers that partly shaped the geographic, economic and political map of the US. Similarly, in short time these heroes were part of a group of men and women that shaped the social, political, geographic and economic make up of Eritrea. From before independence these men were the contractors that helped establish the infrastructures Eritrea built, they built dams and established agro-industry. They were economists (by default) that created mechanisms to help stabilize prizes by bringing products into market to compete against predatory business practices. They are the vanguards that established a military structure that will ensure Eritrea’s future success.

Institutional Development: Every institution in Eritrea is product of the values they nurtured. As men of the Military, they taught countless Eritreans that can carry the torch of Eritrea safe and secure for future generations.

Eritrea Will Miss You

These heroes have established foundations that can survive without them. They groomed men and women that can follow their lead on their behalf. They have created structures that will not wither in their absence. They have given so much, giving up a lot, sacrificed all of what life can offer in order to free, protect and ensure the future of Eritrea based on their dignified cores.

They did Eritrea right by saving her from bullies by assassinating members of Ethiopia’s death squads that terrorized Eritreans. They outsmarted, outwitted, out-struggled all their adversaries, while nurturing armies and building a nation.

It is unfortunate, untimely and sudden, a big loss for their families, friends and compatriots. As Maj. General Teklai Habtesllasie said, “It is unfortunate and huge loss for the people and the government Eritrea that these men passed in this way. They were not done; they were still hungry to do more, to teach and pass-on what they know to build Eritrea.”  

They have lived the lives of many in one lifetime. They have achieved countless achievements that no living military men or women outside Eritrea can boast. Their history and stories are like no other. It is miraculous, hard to believe and unseen anywhere in the world. Their individual histories alone will fill many history books.

These sudden multiple back to back losses of heroes has jolted the psyche of a nation; tremendous loss and hard to fill. It is a reminder of life’s limitations; a reminder that Eritreans must record and pass-on all the stories they know about Eritrean heroes. The story of these men is the story of Eritrea.

The people of Eritrea are resilient and know that they must move on regardless of how heavy the losses. They have been tried initially by the price they paid for independence and later to safeguard the nation.

That said however, and in order to keep these men honored forever, it is the obligation of every Eritrean to live by the values they espoused and continue on their work to keep them alive. They have given their lives to hand a nation, independent nation, a nation free from occupation, a clean canvas to paint it how Eritrea wants. It is the least we can do.  

Awet N-Hafash Zel-Almawi Zikrin Kibrin N-Su-Wa-atna

Awetnayu@hotmail.com


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There are Four Kinds of Eritrean 'Opposition' Groups

March 27, 2014, 12:02 am
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Wedi Vecaro, who was allegedly known for his rampant corruption in Eritrea, is now the "new" face of the so-called "opposition" in the Diaspora. Although new to the political scene, his ideas are not. True to his Italian mafia style ethics, the heavyset businessman recently boasted he could put a hit out on Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki in a seminar held in the Netherlands. 

There are Four Kinds of Eritrean 'Opposition' Groups

By Dehai Member,


There are four kinds of the so-called “OPPOSITION”: (1) The Traditional; (2) The Tigray-cross-border “refugees”; (3) The Woyane implants; (d) The Regionalist/Religionist group.

(a) The traditional OPPOs are those who left the noble ELF struggle and migrated via Sudan, hoping to share in the governance of Eritrea from afar as their reward for their contribution towards the victory attained by their co-fighters - the EPLF. Some were so bitter in their exclusion in 1991. Many of them had decided that “ብሻዕብያ ዝመጸ ናጽነት ኣይንቕበሎን”. Some, in their folly even decided not to vote in the Referendum of 1993 hoping against hope that they would return from their migration to struggle politically and succeed in overthrowing the government and reclaim their right to co-ownership of the victory results. That was an exercise in futility. It took them two decades.

(b) The Tigray cross-border refugees were lured to the bonanza in the Diaspora. They were unfortunately stranded in Mai Aynee, Shmelba and other camps. The Woyane later took advantage of their misery, brain-washed them to hate the GoE. They even trained some of them to raise their “Youth Army” to overthrow Issaias. The Traditional OPPOs associated with them in Ethiopia. The timing coincided with the time when the Traditional OPPOs had given up their 20-year struggle because of old age. They pampered the youth into creating a “Youth Political Party” inculcating in their minds that the country is in need of “መንአሰይ” to whom they wished to entrust the relay of their failed struggle.

(c) The Woyane implants are those that the Woyane had always inserted in the Eritrean internet community. Both (a) and (b) were added as natives, who, through their cultural and linguistic similarity were found an excellent support to its Traditional surrogates.

(d) The Regionalist/Religionist were pampered with the idea of the Infamous Article 39 that the Woyane used to systematically divide the Ethiopian society; e.g. “Klil based” nationalism such as The Kunama/Saho/Highlander/Lowlander group.

It is a pity that, apart from those in item (c) above, who are well trained Woyane cadres, the level of comprehension of the English language of most of those categorized in (a) (b and (d), is low from what I noticed in their communication skills in Dehai, but I wish they access this link, and read to realize that the OPPOSITION mantra is manufactured by powers that do not wish good for Eritrea, and stop the destruction of their own country and people.
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Eritrea to Participate at the 4th EU-Africa Summit

March 27, 2014, 12:18 pm
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The European flag fly amongst European member countries' national flags in front of the European Parliament in Brussels (Credit: Getty Images)

Eritrea to Participate at the 4th EU-Africa Summit

Eritrea will attend the 4th EU-Africa Summit which will take place in Brussels on 2-3 April 2014, according to an Eritrean diplomat.

The summit will bring together African and EU leaders, as well as the leaders of EU and African Union institutions.

Discussions at the summit will focus on the theme "Investing in People, Prosperity and Peace". Topics will include education and training, women and youth, legal and illegal migrant flows between both continents, ways to stimulate growth and create jobs, investing in peace and ways to enhance EU support for African capacities to manage security on the continent.

Eritrea enjoys good relations with the EU. Last month, the Eritrean government appointed Negassi Kassa Tekle as its next ambassador to the European bloc.


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The Hypocrisy of Eritrean 'Opposition' Groups

March 28, 2014, 12:02 am
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Hands off Eritrea! - Credit: Mohammed Abdulsalam


The Hypocrisy of Eritrean 'Opposition' Groups

By Barnabas Araya Yohannes,

These so called opposition groups are divided against themselves by tribalism, regionalism, and religious fanaticism. This evidence makes a mockery of the ethos they proclaimed to profess.

The current opposition groups and individuals present a special threat because they do not usually declare their evil intentions openly but instead they secretly sow the seeds of distrust and suspicion. Outwardly they assert their firmness and commitment for Eritrean unity, while inwardly they are engaged in dividing and agitating the people. These treacherous enemies, who by day and night, openly and secretly, do their utmost to shake the foundations of our unity and who kindle secret sedition and strife, appear as 'sheep, yet inwardly they are naught but ravening wolves.' Sweet in words, they are, but at heart, they are deadly poison.

No doubt every arrogant one that plots dissension and discord will not openly declare his evil purposes; nay rather, even as a fake gold, he would shine and sparkle, and would seize upon divers measures and various pretexts that he may separate the gathering of our community.

These people are like vicious animals, which are lying in ambush, watching for an opportunity. By every means, they are trying to cause divisions among the people in order to achieve their hidden agendas, vested interests, and ulterior motives. Not so in Eritrea.

Our people and community must be protected from these kinds of hypocrites. All showing of kindness or goodwill efforts will always produce contrary results. Should they be allowed to continue they will, in but just within few years, destroy the hard won Eritrean unity.

What they have done is an attempt to strike with their axes at the root of the tree of our unity. No community can be expected to sacrifice its identity and unity out of mistaken tolerance. They must be avoided by all means necessary. If dictatorship is the only way to keep them away from Eritrea, let it be.



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Eritrea's Tadese and Kenya's Kiprop prepare to rumble in Copenhagen

March 28, 2014, 11:46 am
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Half-marathon world record holder, Zersenay Tadese, arriving in Copenhagen, Denmark


Eritrea's Tadese and Kenya's Kiprop prepare to rumble in Copenhagen 


 By Mike Rowbottom,

Zersenay Tadese will set out on the streets of Copenhagen in tomorrow’s IAAF/AL-Bank World Half Marathon Championships seeking to extend his unprecedented run of individual success in this event.

The 32-year-old Eritrean has won five golds and a silver on the past six occasions, but he acknowledges he faces a strong challenge this year from the Kenyan who won the title in 2010, Wilson Kiprop.

“I have prepared well,” he told the official pre-event press conference at the Old Stock Exchange in the Danish capital. “I will try to do my best, although the Kenyans they are very strong.”

He will win himself another athletics honour simply by starting tomorrow by making a record ninth appearance at these championships, moving one ahead of Belgium’s Ronny Ligniel, Russia’s Alina Ivanova and Romanian trio Nuta Olaru, Constantina Dita and Luminita Talpos. But Tadese was giving little away on the subject of how he will set about his latest challenge.

“My tactics will depend on the conditions,” he said. “This is what my coach has told me. I have two or three tactics – but we will see in the race!”

Tadese reacted cautiously to the suggestion that the flat and fast course here might witness a world record, for which there is a $50,000 bonus on offer for both men and women. Asked about the prospects of beating the mark of 58:23 he set in winning the 2010 Lisbon Half Marathon, Tadese responded: “For this race they don’t have pacemakers, so it depends on the athletes. The athletes are coming here for a win, not the time.”

Kiprop made it clear that he was certainly expecting a win, both in the individual and the team event, where Kenya has taken gold on the past six occasions.

“The team is actually very strong,” he said. “If we work together it will be more similar to 2010 when Kenya won the title.”

Kiprop, who missed the 2012 edition of this event because of injury, added: “I have trained really well.

“It was really amazing to win and beat the King of the Half Marathon in 2010,” he said with a grin. “It was a big motivation to me. The race tomorrow will be very tough, very competitive because Zersenay has prepared very well and I have prepared very well also.”

Kiprop acknowledged that he has found inspiration in the efforts of his two fellow Kenyans: Paul Tergat, who is the only man other than Tadese to have won this title more than once, and current world marathon record-holder Wilson Kipsang.

“Both of them add to my motivation,” he said. “They are people we are looking up to.”

Tadese may have performed almost perfectly at the half marathon, but while he clearly loves the event, he stops short of describing it as his perfect distance.

“I like the half marathon very much, but the marathon is another way,” he said. "For the future, I want to do a marathon."

The Eritrean has a respectable marathon best of 2:10:41, set at the London Marathon two years ago, but has yet to translate his successes at the half marathon to the longer event.

Kiprop, who as a marathon best of 2:09:09, set in Prague in 2010, is also keeping his options open with regard to other distances.

“For me I can also run the marathon because I have already run 2:09. After these World Championships I will start to prepare for my next marathon.

“But I am always ready to go back and run shorter distances. When I say I am preparing for the marathon, it doesn’t mean I close the possibilities of going to the track. For me, I am ready to run anywhere!”

While Kenya and Ethiopia look likely to do battle for the main honours in the women’s race – and Japan and China also looking ready to profit – the Italian team is looking towards the athlete who won silver in the marathon at last year’s IAAF World Championships in Moscow, Valeria Straneo, to challenge for a medal.

The 37-year-old Italian athlete, who will turn 38 next month, made her first worldwide impact in the Russian capital with a bold, front-running effort in which she was only overtaken during the closing stages by Kenya’s Edna Kiplagat.

But do not expect a similar front-running effort tomorrow.

Asked about her prospects of becoming the first European-born winner of this race since Constantina Tomescu of Romania in 2005, Straneo commented: “I just run in my sensation and try to keep a regular pace for all the race. And so tomorrow I will be regular. I don’t like to be fast and slow. I think for me it’s better to be regular. I hope for the last kilometre to be faster!

“It depends on the other girls – if they start too fast I don’t think I would be in front of them. I’ll just keep my pace.

“I have prepared for this half marathon in the last two months. I have already run this distance three times and I hope tomorrow to be in great shape.”

Straneo added that Anna Incerti, Italy’s 2010 European marathon champion, had had to withdraw from these championships. “She is sick,” she said. “It is a great pity. But we will try to achieve a good result anyway.”

Having enjoyed a rise from domestic to international level following the removal of her spleen in 2010 after a medical condition which had increasingly hampered her achieving a healthy blood count, Straneo found it hard to come to terms with her success.

After Moscow last year, she commented: “I still cannot believe I am a top runner.”

Here, with a smile, she revised that opinion. “It’s different because after the silver medal I know that I can compete with strong people, but I always have my feet on the ground and so for me it’s very important to be here. It is a dream. I am very happy.”

Meanwhile Denmark’s former world 800m record-holder and champion Wilson Kipketer, who will be running in the mass event, has predicted that, whoever wins, the race will be swift.

“It’s going to be fast,” Kipketer said. “The weather is going to be good. My advice to the athletes is to run fast, break the record. That’s what we are looking for. I will be just behind you – I have been training hard!”

The last word went to Tadese, who had a successful career in cycling before he took up running seriously in his late teens. Copenhagen, a city full of orderly cyclists, is working well for him.

“It is a very nice city and the people are very friendly,” Tadese said. “The people enjoy cycling. It is very healthy to cycle.”

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