Vol. 22 No. 100 Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

Message of President isaias on the occasion of fenkil celebrations

Allow me to first express my profound gratitude to all those who have contributed to the celebrations of the 26th anniversary of Operation Fenkil. Let me also pay tribute, on this auspicious day, to the heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives 26 years ago to make history. May your heroic feats be glorified forever! For the members of Eritrea’s Defense Forces who fought with dedication in the liberation of the country yesterday and who continue to tirelessly toil in today’s challenges of nation building to write tomorrow’s history, I wish them redoubled gratification. Above all, I wish progress and prosperity, as a reward for their unparalleled endeavours, to the Eritrean people at home and abroad who constitute a veritable model of patience, resilience, hard work and victory.

Fenkil 26 is being celebrated in a year of above normal precipitation and lush green coverage of the entire area from Ras Kiesar to Dumera. The good rains that engender hope and inspiration remind us what could have been achieved, beyond temporary delight, had we managed to harness the rainfall by constructing dams, diversion canals, and, by embarking on afforestation programmes throughout the Northern Red Sea and Southern Red Sea Regions On the other hand, this fact underscores the magnitude and complexity of the challenges of development that we have to undertake without complacency. That we need to ramp up our efforts and ensure that they measure up to our challenges is indeed too vivid to merit emphasis.

Another point that requires attention on this occasion is the vital importance we need to attach to the preservation of our historical heritage. The Northern Red Sea Region is a particular place where most and the biggest historical events had occurred; where most of our heroic patriots were laid to rest. In spite of this fact, the indispensable task of preservation and maintenance of our historical heritage has not been undertaken with the requisite rigour. In the event, I reiterate the need to launch serious and phased programmes of preservation in tandem with the infrastructural and development projects that are underway.

Eternal Glory to our Martyrs!Victory to the Masses!

The commemoration of the 26th

anniversary of Operation Fenkil, which was held from February 12th-

14th under the theme, “Operation Fenkil 2016: On the Eve of the Silver Jubilee of Independence Day Celebration” was conducted with great enthusiasm.

In the morning hours of February 13, President Isaias Afwerki laid wreath at Tiwalet Monument in connection with the Commemoration of Operation Fenkil. The Minister of Local Government, Mr. Woldenkiel Abrha, Gen. Filipos Woldeyohanes, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Armed Forces, Ms. Tekha Tesfamichael, Chairperson of the National Union of Eritrean Women, the Governor of the Northern Red Sea region, Ms. Tsegereda Woldegergis, and Mr. Kidane Woldeselasie, Mayor

Eritrea’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Osman Saleh, has delivered a message from President Isaias

In meetings recently conducted across the United States, Eritreans reiterated their readiness to enhance their state of consciousness and strengthen unity in support of national development programs.

Pointing out that huge sacrifices have been paid to bring about national independence and preserve the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Eritreans in Seattle, WA and surrounding areas expressed their readiness to support the development programs being undertaken under the principle of self-reliance.

Meanwhile, noting that Eritreans around the world have a strong bond with their country, Eritreans in the state of Minnesota and in San Diego, CA pointed out that Eritrea’s enthusiastic preparation for the Silver Jubilee Independence Day reflects the close unity and steadfastness of the people and government. Attendees vowed to play constructive roles in ongoing political, economic, and social developmental efforts in Eritrea.

As well, Eritreans in Nashville, TE and Portland, OR Eritrean discussed the need to transfer Eritrea’s rich, deep history to the next generation, and also to encourage and cultivate role-oriented youngsters.

Participants at the various meetings raised $US5600 to support national development efforts and various programs.

coMMeMoration of oPeration fenkil conducted with great Patriotic zeal

of Massawa city, respectively also laid wreath at the Patriots Monument.

Present on the occasion were Ministers, regional Administrators, Army Commanders, senior government and PFDJ officials, as well as participants of the commemorative event. Also, President Isaias pay a visit to the Free zone area, where he was given briefings by respective officials.

On the official commemorative event attended by high level government and PFDJ officials, military commanders, and numerous pilgrims and local inhabitants, the Mayor of the port city of Massawa, Mr. Kidane Weldesilasie, reflected on the significance of the event, which is being held on the eve of the country’s Silver Jubilee

Independence Day celebrations.

Noting that Operation Fenkil played a crucial role in paving the way for the total liberation of Eritrea, the General Director of Culture and Artifacts in the Northern Red Sea region and Chairman of the Holiday’s Coordinating Committee, Mr. Suraj Haj, also indicated that the commemoration coincides with the Independence torch tour, which is currently moving across the nation and adding further emphasis to celebrations.

The event was highlighted by various military parades, exhibitions, cultural shows, and a visit to the Patriot’s Cemetery. Participants at the celebration expressed their joy and also remarked that the commemoration is important in sharing history with the younger generation.

Mr. Osman Hasebela, a Sudanese visitor, said that it gave him great pride to attend the Fenkil commemoration and that the vibrant celebrations of Eritrean public holidays are a testament to the unity and harmony of nationals.

Training programs were organized for 379 youths in Logo-Ansaba sub-zone, Gash Barka Region. The programs, covering video and still camera shooting, first aid, beauty salon training, and journalism, amongst others, aim at upgrading the skills of the youth in Logo-Ansaba.

Previously, 60 youth in the sub-zone had received training in bee breeding.

Afwerki to Mr. Abdulfatah Al-Sisi, the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

President Isaias’ message focuses on strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries and on regional issues of mutual interest.

At the meeting held at the State House in Cairo, President Al-Sisi expressed his appreciation for the message from President Isaias and reiterated Egypt’s readiness to further deepen existing ties of cooperation with Eritrea.

eritrea’s foreign Minister delivers Message to egyPtian President

eritreans residing abroad reiterate readiness to succeed national develoPMent PrograMs

training for youth in logo-anseba

news brief

2Vol 22. No.100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016

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Sara Alem

Vol. 22 No. 100

Mr. President

Distinguished Representatives;

I would like to thank the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, in particular Ambassador Rafael Darío Ramírez Carreño, for organizing this important and timely debate on the Working Methods of the Subsidiary Organs of the Security Council.

Given the complex and dynamic global environment improving the working methods of the Subsidiary Organs of the Security Council has paramount importance. Eritrea strongly believes that a transparent and credible process in the Security Council is not a matter of an option but a necessity.

Mr. President,

For the sake of brevity, I would like to highlight the following three points:

1. Ensuring Comprehensive assessment of the impact of sanctions regimes: Once the causes for the sanctions are proven non-existent and their intended purpose is negatively affecting regional and international peace, security and development as well as the life of the people, the UN Security Council is duty bound to immediately and unconditionally lift sanctions. Legal and factual issues must be separated from politically and diplomatically motivated agendas. Let us not mix Oranges and Apples.

STATEMENT BY AMBASSADOR GIRMA ASMEROM, PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF ERITREA TO UNITED NATIONS, DURING THE UN

SECURITY COUNCIL DEBATE ON “WORKING METHODS OF THE SUBSIDIARY ORGANS OFTHE SECURITY COUNCIL”

It has been six years since the UN Security Council imposed unjustified and politically motivated sanction against Eritrea. To continue maintaining the unjust sanctions against Eritrea when the two allegations for the imposition of the sanctions are clearly presented by the Somalia Eritrea Monitoring Group (SEMG) to be nonexistent it is not only a travesty of justice but collective punishment against the people of Eritrea. However, and more importantly, with the current political and security realities in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region maintaining unjustified sanctions against Eritrea undermines and limits the capacity of a UN member state to implement UN Security Council resolutions in combating global extremism and terrorism as well as meaningfully contribute to the maintenance of regional and international peace and security.

2. Transparency and information sharing: Sanction Committees, especially those dealing with country-specific sanction, need to regularly interact and share information and allegations with the concerned country. Countries under sanction have every right to receive the full contents of the draft and final report compiled by experts or monitoring groups in a timely manner. This will allow the Sanctions Committee to hear the views of the concerned country, which is consistent with the legal principles of “equality of arms” and “you are innocent until proven guilty”. These methods will definitely ensure transparency. It must be underlined that Eritrea as a concerned country continues to be denied access to the monthly

assessments as well as the draft and final report of the Monitoring Group.

3. Undertake rigorous examination of experts and monitoring groups’ reports: This is an important aspect of the work of the Sanction Committees. Eritrea strongly believes that Sanction Committees must ensure that the reports of the experts or monitoring groups meet the highest evidentiary standard as stipulated in the Report of the Informal Working Group of the Security Council on General Issues of Sanctions (S/2006/997) which, inter alia, underscores the need for expert panels to rely on verified information and documents, as well as ensure that their “assertions are corroborated by solid information and that their findings are substantiated by credible sources”. The sources of the reports must be clearly identified and known. Sweeping statements such as “information gathered from reliable sources, former officials” etc. must be rejected and cannot be the bases upon which the UN Security Council take decisions. The Sanction Committees must ensure the contents of the reports of panel of experts are within the purview of the mandate and must ensure that experts strictly respect and stick to their mandate. Whenever experts overstep their mandate, they should be instructed not to do so by the Committee and in the same vein when information provided by them found to be false must be corrected publicly and as soon as possible.

Again this has not been Eritrea’s experience. In addition to overstepping its mandate the

Somalia Eritrea Monitoring Group (SEMG) has been reporting baseless allegations collected from nameless and faceless sources. In the context of maintenance of regional and international peace and security, the Group is only and clearly mandated to look into whether Eritrea supported al-Shabab in Somalia and the border dispute between Eritrea and Djibouti. However, overstepping its mandate, the SEMG continues to routinely deal with Eritrean and Ethiopian conflict, and does so in a manner that ignores context and ramifications. Another equally important aspect is, at least in Eritrea’s experience, the monitoring group have routinely reported uncorroborated allegations and refused to rectify them when those allegations were found not to be true.

Mr. President,In conclusion:

1. Since the SEMG has clearly stated “it has found no evidence of Eritrean support to alshabab” and Djibouti Eritrea issue is being handled by the government of Qatar and the Qatar forces are deployed at the common border between Eritrea and Djibouti there is no imagined or real threat to international peace and security that Eritrea is involved. The Security Council must, therefore, immediately and unconditionally lift the sanction against Eritrea.

2. Given the current fight against global terrorism and extremism, lifting the unjust sanctions will enhance peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea Region. On the other hand, the maintenance of the sanctions can only be a recipe for disaster and

chaos.

3. The unjust sanction imposed against Eritrea has no linkage to Eritrea and Ethiopia conflict. However, in a manner that ignores and disregards context, perspective and ramification and in violation of its mandate and in an attempt to move the goalpost, the SEMG continues to deal with Eritrean Ethiopian conflict. Once again Eritrea underlines that the conflict between Eritrea and Ethiopia is an issue between the occupied and the occupier. Ethiopian official’s constant military threat against Eritrea must be also taken into consideration.

For example:

- On 7 July 2015 the Prime Minister of Ethiopia speaking to his Parliament said that “Ethiopia will be forced to take appropriate action against Eritrea.”

- On 9 August 2014 during an interview with the Washington D.C based Radio Tsenat, the Prime Minister of Ethiopia clearly stated that “the no-war no-peace situation with Eritrea is over. Ethiopia from now on is ready to take military action against Eritrea”

- On 17 April 2012, speaking to the Ethiopian Parliament the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi stated that “the Ethiopian government has now decided to carry out a more active policy, taking actions against Eritrea. The action will involve using all means at Ethiopia’s disposal to change the Eritrean government. The other major area where Ethiopia will further strengthen its activity is in supporting Eritreans in their campaign to change the government.”

The use or threat of use of force against any country big or small is a violation of the UN Charter and international law that should be condemned by the Security Council. If the SEMG and the Security Council want to be involved under the current agenda item their option is one and only one that is to urge Ethiopia to unconditionally and immediately withdraw from the sovereign Eritrean territories, including the town of Badme.

I thank you, Mr. President.

Vol 22. No.100 3Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016

A roundtable discussion on Natural Resource Development in Eritrea organized by the Embassy of the State of Eritrea was held in London with industry experts, representatives of financial institution and potential investors. Also taking part in the discussions were members of the diplomatic community from South Africa, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, German, Italy, Bolivia, and Venezuela along with a host of press organizations. Eritrean professionals from various fields also attended the event.

The aim of the event was to create an effective platform for communication and information sharing. The event brought together a number of high-profile investors with specific interests in Eritrea.

These include representatives from mining firms already operating in Eritrea as well as potential investors who have expressed a keen interest in exploring the lucrative opportunities that lay ahead.

Ms. Yohana Paulos, from the Eritrean Embassy in UK, introduced participants to the program and gave attendees a digital information package that provided them with a more holistic picture of Eritrean achievements and challenges and the current situation in the country.

Opening remarks were given by Mr. Yared Tesfay, Director of Media Affairs, representing

Roundtable Discussion on Natural Rsource Development in Eritrea Held in London

H.E. Estefanos Habtemariam, Ambassador of the State of Eritrea in the United Kingdom and Ireland. He welcomed guest speakers and updated participants on investment opportunities and the Embassy’s future plans to engage with potential investors.

The ensuing discussion was chaired by Ms. Ruby Sandhu, a Business Ethics & Human Rights Lawyer. Ms. Sandhu, who has travelled to Eritrea multiple times in the past on various fact-finding missions, gave her impression of ground realities in the country and discussed her experience and findings. Ms. Ruby highlighted the conditions of peace and

stability inside the country and the attractive environment for businesses. Briefly touching upon how media reporting on Eritrea is sensationalized, she went on to point out the proper expropriation of mining revenues by the Eritrean government.

Next, Ms. Ruby introduced Dr. Tim Williams for his presentation on his experiences in Eritrea.

Dr. Williams is the CEO of Andiamo exploration, which has been operating in the country since the early 1990s. His presentation focused on giving an overview of the mining industry and background on Eritrea’s nascent mining industry together with a positive review of Eritrea’s mining law. Dr. Williams stressed Eritrean government’s commitment to honoring the contract and the good governmental working environment that emphasizes a zero tolerance policy on corruption. He later indicated that there were reliable machineries and operators in the country, making it easy to trust operations on the ground.

The next presentation was given by Mr. Todd Romaine, the Vice President of Corporate

Social Responsibility for Nevsun Resources Limited. Mr. Romaine echoed Dr. Tim about the lack of corruption and went on to explain the nature of Bisha Mining Share Company’s operations in Eritrea vis-à-vis the Government of Eritrea. He also discussed Nevsun’s experience regarding corporate social responsibilities and human rights in Eritrea, indicating that the main human rights challenge in the country was poverty.

Mr. Romaine also discussed business operations in Eritrea, the recent Human Rights Impact Assessment and the company’s

vision to generate shared prosperity through its business operations. He explained that company concerns were not only about generating profits but also about protecting the safety and health of employees, mitigating environmental impacts from mining, respecting the human rights of workers and local community residents and contributing to the sustainable development of local communities.

Following the presentations were a number of interesting questions from participants and subsequent feedback that highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of Eritrea’s natural resources sector. Moderated by Ms. Ruby, the Q&A session drew examples and experiences acquired from other countries.

Giving his closing remarks and acknowledgements, Mr. Yared noted the aim to actively identify and build relationships with potential investors as well nurture and solidify the relationship with existing partners.

In effect, he noted, the Embassy would act as a bridge between the relevant institutions in Eritrea and interested investors so as to ensure a smoother investment process. Lastly, he pointed out that this process will be facilitated by greater communication and information sharing between all stakeholders.

Media center Eritrean Embassy in UK

Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 Vol 22. No.100 4

Scattered like a string of pearls upon the azure, the Dahlak Archipelago and its coast were once described by Eritrean Horizon as one of “the last, great and unspoilt destinations in the world.” With more than 200 of Eritrea’s islands which belong to the Dahlak archipelago, this island chain forms the natural gateway to Eritrea, guarding the approaches to the modern port of Massawa and the ancient one of Adulis.

Topographically, the Dahlaks rise above a shallow continental shelf lying off the coast. Unless one is blessed with an unlimited amount of time, it is hardly feasible to explore the over 200 islands within a short time period. Nevertheless, even a few hours can provide a rewarding and rich snippet.

Few regions in the world offer a greater opportunity for yacht cruising, and the Dahlak archipelago is bestowed with innumerable specialties to satiate the insatiable appetites of cruisers and divers.

In waters that are generally tranquil, and never too far from the Arabian and African mainland, the gold coasts of the Dahlak archipelago are an undisturbed marine paradise and offer an unforgettable experience.Pearl fishing has flourished around the Dahlak islands since the time of the ancient Egyptians, who held influence over the archipelago.

Cruising Through The Golden Coasts Of The Dahlak Archipelago

Later, during the Ottoman Empire, the archipelago—especially the Dahlak Kebir—was the chief port for pearl fishing in the southern part of the Red Sea. Another remarkable feature is the necropolis of gravestones, curved with beautiful Kufic scripts, which stand out as evidence of the historical creative culture and economic significance of the region.

The Dahlaks are true desert islands, with barren soils, and many of the islands are simply flat, sandy bars or barren rocks which jut out of the sea. Early inhabitants of the Dahlaks dealt with the problem of a shortage of drinking water by carving large cisterns out of the rock, each of which contained a day’s ration for the settlement. One cistern was carved for every day of the year – an extraordinary triumph of human ingenuity over the harsh environment.

Meanwhile, of the 1,000-plus species or sub-species of fish known to inhabit the Red Sea, some 15% are unique to the area. Moreover, some corals and echinoderms, such as certain star fish, are also only found there. Similarly, many of the Dahlak reefs had not been visited by divers prior to the 1960s. Depending on their depth and coral formations, different reefs are suited to either fully-equipped scuba divers or snorkelers. To get to both the populated and uninhabited islands, with their spectacular marine and birdlife, however, one requires a

boat with a decent engine.

Off the coast of Dahlak Kebir, at the mouth of the Gulf of Zula, lays the island of Dissei, formed by a narrow ridge of little volcanic hills which tapers off at either end. The jagged rocks give it a barren, inhospitable appearance. However, around every little point of land is a cove or bay ringed with a crescent of white sand. The deserted beaches are scattered with driftwood, the chalky exoskeletons of cuttlefish, pumice stones formed from submarine volcanoes, fragments of rose-red coral, and even the bones of dolphins. Compared to most beaches around the world, there is remarkably little pollution.

Equipped only with a snorkel, mask, and flippers, one can observe a tapestry of marine life swimming just below the surface. Playing about among the

corals and anemones, around the tops and sides of columns, are tiny clown fish, trigger fish with pursed lips, big-eyed and shy red squirrel fish and brilliantly hued wrasses—the submarine world’s equivalent to hummingbirds or tropical butterflies.

Additionally, as a part of the Dahlak archipelago, Dissei’s beaches are so quiet and remote that when the island’s only village comes into view in a wide, sandy bay, it appears like a settlement of survivors from a long-forgotten shipwreck. Huts constructed from driftwood and stung with old fishnets strengthen the impression that this is a community of several dozen Robinson Crusoes.

The villagers live by fishing out of their wooden crafts, known as sambukhs. Their nets catch a variety of grouper, reef fish, and small sharks (whose fins are dried and eventually sold in the Far East for shark fin soup). Depending on the season, these waters also abound with shoaling pelagic fish such as tuna and jacks, which must be caught on a line.

Just a few meters from the beach, little reef fish, sporting an explosive array of electric or neon-like colors, cluster around small flowerings of branching coral and sea anemones. A short swim further out from the shore, still within the shallow water, multi-colored pillars appear, covered with soft, branching and rounded corals, seaweeds and anemones. These coral heads are centers for a wide variety of marine life.

Across from Dissei lies the island of Madot, which is little

more than a sand bar. During certain seasons, tens of thousands of seabirds come here (and many other islands within the Dahlaks) to breed. Lesser crested terns and brown boobies lay their eggs on the beach itself above the high water mark. When the chicks hatch, they are nurtured in the sand. In addition to the lesser crested terns and brown boobies, other commonly seen species are white-fronted sand plovers, reef herons, seagulls and, most magnificent of all, the pink-backed pelican.

The birds are generally tame to a degree which suggests limited contact with human populations. Off the shores of the islands, one can often observe them at close quarters.

Another significant mammal species found in the Dahlaks is the dugong, or sea cow. This creature, which is greyish, cylinder-shaped, up to four meters long, and can weigh 900 kilograms, gave rise to fishermen’s tales about mermaids and is rarely seen.

Swimming at night, it is possible to observe another incredible wonder of nature. As you move through the dark water, greenish sparkling light explodes around your fingers and limbs. This amazing light show, called bioluminescence, is produced by tiny living creatures.

The Dahlaks are indeed a world of their own. The rich, unique features and array of biodiversity underscores that the Dahlaks are a priceless environmental treasure that must be protected.

Yosief Abraham Z.

Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 Vol 22. No.100 5

Dr. Fikrejesus Amahazion

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution (A/RES/64/292) which “recognized the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation as a human right that is essential for the full enjoyment of life and all human rights.” According to the United Nations (UN), water is a fundamental component of development and it is vital for socio-economic progress, the health, sustainability, and vitality of ecosystems, and for human survival itself. Additionally, water is crucial in reducing the global burden of a range of diseases and it is significant in improving the health, welfare and productivity of populations. Moreover, it is central to the production and preservation of a broad array of benefits and services for populations, while it also remains essential to adaptation to climate change, serving as an important link between the climate system, human society and the environment.

During a speech she gave last year on the UN’s new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Helen Clark thoroughly detailed the numerous mechanisms through which water is interrelated to global poverty eradication and sustainable development. First, water is directly linked to sanitation and health. Water-related illnesses disproportionately affect disadvantaged, vulnerable, and marginalized populations, especially poor women and children. Globally, it is estimated that approximately 2,000 children under the age of five die every single day from diarrheal diseases. Frustratingly, the vast majority of these deaths are relatively easily preventable, often being connected to problems with and inadequate access to water, sanitation, and hygiene. As well, illnesses and diseases arising from a lack of water and sanitation also lead to considerable losses in productivity, burden individuals, families, communities, and healthcare systems with massive costs, and ultimately stunt national economies.

Articulating the close link between water and the economy, Sanctuary, Tropp, and Berntell of the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) find

Water and Developmentthat, amongst numerous other important developmental benefits, improved access to basic water and sanitation services and good management of water resources brings “more certainty and efficiency in productivity across economic sectors,” and helps lead to “immediate and long-term economic, social and environmental benefits.” As well, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) study on meeting the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the economic loss from the inadequate access to or delivery of water and sanitation is approximately 1.5 % of gross domestic product (GDP).

Notably, the lack of access to water also extends to harm efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, therefore additionally severely limiting potential for broad development. Girls spending valuable time fetching water may not attend school, thus missing out on education that may propel socio-economic transformation, while women who spend hours fetching water have less time to engage in productive income-generating work and activities.

Women’s economic empowerment is increasingly recognized as amongst the most significant factors in promoting gender equality. However, economically strengthening women is not only a fundamental moral imperative, in terms of encouraging the realization of inherent, inalienable women’s and human rights, it also serves to stimulate economic growth and prosperity, ultimately tangibly improving societies. For example, in the 1970s, as Norwegian women entered the labor force en masse, overall productivity greatly improved, while the country’s tax base nearly doubled, helping to undergird a generous, universal welfare state that supports all segments of Norwegian society.

Overall, the right to water is a fundamental human right, and the lack of access to water leads to a broad array of far-reaching negative economic and social impacts, including general poor health, greater mortality, lower school enrolments and decreased educational achievement, and greater gender disparities.

For Eritrea, a low-income, developing country within the fractious Horn of Africa, water has long been a significant concern. Located within the arid and semi-arid Sahelian region and characterized by harsh, challenging climatic conditions, Eritrea is not endowed with considerable water resources.

It has two perennial river systems, the Setit River and the Gash Barka system, while all other rivers in the country are seasonal, only carrying water after rainfall. However, Eritrea’s rainfall patterns are extremely erratic. Average annual rainfall is only approximately 380 mm, and rainfall is usually torrential, being high in intensity and short in duration, thus raising the possibility of unpredictable and destructive floods. Moreover, rainfall is highly variable from year to year, with droughts occurring every three to five years. Consequently, most rivers in Eritrea remain dry throughout most of the year. Furthermore, Eritrea possesses limited sources of fresh surface water, and while groundwater can be tapped, it may be small in quantity and poor in quality (IFAD n.d.).

In this context, access to water has been a central focus of Eritrea’s national developmental objectives. In recent years, access to clean drinking water in rural and urban communities in Eritrea has risen to a total of 85%, dramatically higher than the meager figure at the onset of independence (Ministry of Land, Water and Environment; Pose and Samuels 2011). Much of the country’s improvement is down to considerable investments, cooperative projects and integrated approaches that cut across ministries and sectors, a simultaneous focus on both rural and urban populations, and broad community involvement.

Moving forward, it is imperative that Eritrea continue to place water at the centre of its development policy. This will necessitate renewed firm political will and commitment, as well as the cooperation and support of the international community, development partners, and local communities and groups. Ultimately, focus and investment in water (and related sectors) will help to radically transform the country’s economy, encourage

social equity, be beneficial for the local environment, and promote human development.

Notably, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), a humanitarian institution based in Geneva, Switzerland and a three-time Nobel Prize Laureate, recently featured an article highlighting a grassroots-level water project in Aytera, a small border village in Eritrea. Significantly, the project helps provide vital water and relief to the village, while also serving as an apt reminder of the tangible developmental outcomes emanating from the access to water.

Eritrea: A solar powered well brings water and relief

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and featured

on https://www.icrc.org

Eritreans living in the border village of Aytera know how hard life can be. During the 1998–2000 war between Ethiopia and Eritrea most fled to makeshift camps. Since the conflict ended, they have been rebuilding their lives from the ashes of war.

Aytera’s 600 residents depend heavily on their crops and farm animals to survive. This is a test in itself, but the biggest challenge to life in this region – known as Gash Barka, situated in the southwest of the country – is water. For two years, after Aytera’s water pump broke, residents had to walk four kilometres to a hand-dug well to fetch water.

The children from other villages who attend Aytera’s school always had to scramble to find something to drink. “It was very sad to see children move from house to house in search of water,” said Nebiat

Gebreweld, a mother of six. Once the well was reached – a journey of two to three hours – people had to wait in line to haul water up from a depth of 12 metres before trudging back home with their heavy loads.

Easy access to clean water

Now, thanks to a solar water supply system installed by the ICRC in June 2015, the water situation is much improved. A fountain built in the middle of the village gives residents easy access to clean water.

The village has established a three-member water committee to oversee the upkeep of the solar-powered well. Residents each pay a small fee to fill up a jerrycan of water after waiting no more than a couple of minutes to access one of the well’s ten faucets.

More time for chores

Gathering the water needed for daily life is often a chore that falls to women and girls. Fiyori Maekele, a seventh grade schoolgirl, said: “The solar water project is very important for girls and mothers as it only takes us a few minutes to fetch water, so I now have more time to spend on chores and school work.”

The ICRC has been working in Eritrea since the outbreak of the border conflict, helping vulnerable people and the victims of violence. Its most recent projects include the installation of about 80 solar water supply systems, construction of ponds for livestock, distribution of foot-pumps for small-scale irrigation projects, animal vaccination services, and assisting Ethiopians who wish to be repatriated.

Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 Vol 22. No.100 6

AICS is currently accepting applications for full time teaching positions.

The deadline is March 4, 2016. ONLY Applicants who meet or exceed these requirements should apply: successful applications will be notified.

1. Primary ES (Grades 2)2. Intermediate ES (Grade 4)3. Secondary English Teacher Successful candidates Should have:• Bachelors Degree• Minimum 2 years teaching experience preferably in an international

setting• Internationally recognized teacher certification/qualification• Flexibility and qualifications to teach in other areas as needed• Experience living in a foreign country (Preferred)• Certificate of exemption from national service (Eritrean)

Send CV with contact information and references by postal mail to:AICS, P.O. Box 4941, Asmara.

Please mail a second copy of your application to ministry of Labor addressed: - Work permit section P.O. Box 5252, Asmara.

No telephone call or appointment please. Candidates will be notified by March 14, 2016.

asmara international community school

Photographers Corner Photo:Mhreteab Gebremichael 2008 Asmara

Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 7Vol 22. No.100

Zahra Ahmed Baduri

Since the 1980s, fighting civilian illiteracy has been a continuous effort. Importantly, the Eritrean Teacher Training Institute (TTI) has long been offering matriculation exam opportunities to women seeking to improve their education. To be exact, efforts began during the Eritrean armed struggle in 1983; at that time, approximately 80% of the population was illiterate. However, through the commitment of the Ministry of Education (MoE), the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW), and other organizations, the rate of illiteracy rapidly decreased to 25% after independence. In 1993-94, the Northern Red Sea region enrolled about 1114 students in 10 districts for literacy programs. Remarkably, by 2014-15 the number increased to 44,714 students in 186 districts.

Crucially, much of the

improvement was through the efforts of and targeting of women. Notably, in 2005, NUEW organized class programs for former fighters, many of whom had left their education during elementary levels in order to join the struggle. The program, which signed up both women and men, played a positive role in improving their literacy.

With the program’s finance and teachers’ monthly pay covered by the MoE, in 2007-08 the program expanded to feature a

The Light at the End of a Dark Tunnel

junior schooling program. This was important towards offering expanded access to opportunities for more individuals. In Afabet, numerous civilians and a massive number of women were included in the evening class programs. Importantly, with nearly 90% of the region’s women being highly active in such initiatives, there was greater acceptance among communities and families toward the education of girls and women.

In AGEZO, a local magazine, an article on education and NUEW displayed impressive figures for the 2013-2015 period. The article noted that 81 elders, 74 of them women, participated in matriculation exams. Moreover, on September 8th 2015, a day that annually celebrates the nationwide fight against illiteracy, during festivities in Afabet, NUEW extended awards and cash prizes to students who scored highest on the middle school final evaluation tests (General exams) along with ESECE

participants whom succeeded in passing. During the occasion, the president of the NUEW, Tekhea Tesfamicheal, contributed by cheering and commending those women who continued to pursue their education.

Significantly, one reason many women lacked education was that many communities viewed the idea of educating women as a taboo or even as a push factor that diverts women from the legendary cultural views and norms. For example, many saw women as required to serve their father or husband. However, with women being a main strength of Eritrea’s struggle for independence, NUEW and the government organized various women’s empowerment programs both to fulfil women’s rights and allow them to contribute fully to society.

To take an example, a woman from the subzone of Afabet, Rayet Afa Mahmoud, completed a diploma program and is now working in the telecommunication department (Eri-Tel) of the subzone. Additionally, Ms. Asha Mohammed Nur Ali reached 11th grade, despite facing challenging age differences among classmates and other peer pressures, and for that she was awarded the MENDELAY prize. Just by being a part of the NUEW program, about 2,130 women of Afabet subzone enrolled in regular schools. The head of the educational department of Afabet, Abdullah Saleh, said that the progress in eliminating illiteracy doesn’t mean that it is fully conquered, but rather that it illustrates what is possible in moving forward.

Education offers many benefits, including building personality and character, allowing individuals to contribute to national development, and promoting employment opportunities. For example, 46 women out of the 81 matriculation participants of Afabet now work in diverse fields including health, telecommunications, banks, education, and administration, amongst others.

If you graduate today and stop learning the tomorrow, you are illiterate…

Many of the participants’ stories are inspirational. For example, consider Amna Mohamed Omer. After finishing her middle school studies, she chose to get married and left her studies for a period. However, the thought of continuing her education was never a distant sight. After some time, and through discussions with her husband, she enrolled in evening class programs available in her home town. Even pregnancy didn’t stop her from commitment to her studies, and she remained focused on preparing for the final exams of secondary school applicants (ESECE).

While the first exam was of little difficulty for her, problems began to arise once she got back home. It was the baby. Ultimately, she was taken to the nearest hospital, and gave birth to a happy, healthy daughter. Amna welcomed her daughter into the world along

with her teachers and family. However, the challenge would be in completing the remaining series of exams…how would she do it? The thought of waiting for another year was of great worry. Consequently, Amna bravely decided to continue her exams in the hospital. Local authorities and her instructors agreed to grant her the opportunity, and thus Amna wrote her exams while receiving treatment and care (along with her child)!

After scoring remarkably well and completing her ESECE exams, Amna began teaching at a local school in Afabet until the summer of 2015. Subsequently, she enrolled at the Eritrean TTI at Asmara, taking her unshakable confidence and her newly born daughter, Nejat (or as her roommates named her in Tigre “Welet matric’’, in reference to being born during the matriculation exams). Impressively, Amna advanced in the one year freshman course at TTI, presenting a wonderful example of excellence, perseverance, and courage.

Education and literacy represent fundamental rights, and they are critical tools for development and equality. It is important and positive that many women across Eritrea continue to take a strong stand against illiteracy, even in the face of pressures like marriage, pregnancy, and outdated cultural notions.

Amna taking.ESECE Exams in the hospital

Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 17 February, 2016 Vol 22. No.100 8

Dr. Theodore, tell us about yourself.

Call me Ted, please. I am a research scientist at the University of California, and I have worked there for over 35 years. My specialty is the study of amphibians and reptiles.

Our university has the biggest museum of its kind, the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology.

How did it start? I mean your entry into the profession.

My friend earlier on in grammar school, his father specialized in the same profession, and so I basically wanted to be like him. You know, the same man, much later on, was my advisor while I was doing research for my Ph.D. Subsequently, I’ve worked with him for so many years at the University of California.

And I have long been interested in Africa, probably back to when I was 19 years old.

Why Africa?

When I was an early college student, I lived in Ghana for six month. Then 10 years ago, I began to have a growing and immense interest in the species of East Africa, many who are related to those of the Arabian Peninsula.

You know, something like 40 million years ago, the land masses of Arabia and Africa were actually physically connected together. Later, when they got separated,

Dr. Theodore J. Papefuss has been a Research Scientist the University of California since 1980, specializing in the study of reptile and amphib-ians. He is particularly interested in the conservation of these animals and biodiversity. Dr. Papefuss recently visited Eritrea for three weeks, and right before he left I had the opportunity to interview him. We had a wonderful discussion and I went home with so much knowledge about several of Eritrea’s unique animals.

“You don’t know about the Asmara toad ?!”

some of the species were also segregated. I did some research in Arabia and felt the need to expand my inquiry to the Horn of Africa.

So, this is why I had to return

to Africa. And particularly your country, Eritrea.

In Eritrea?

Eritrea is rich in biodiversity of small animals. Many years ago, a biologist was here to conduct some research, mostly in Massawa and a bit in Asmara. Remarkably, they found some new species. This was one of the factors that pushed me to come and do research of my own.

When I asked for a permission to

come and work in your country, I was fortunate to find some amazing people, including Fitsum, the director of wildlife in your country. He arranged so many things with the Ministry of Agriculture…and here I am. I’ve been here for almost three weeks and everything has been beyond fantastic.

One of our goals was to study some of the unusual species. In 1827, a freshwater turtle and a very unusual type of lizard were discovered in the area towards Massawa. And there is something else which is unique to Eritrea…do you know of the ‘Asmara toad’?

No, I don’t.You don’t know about the

‘Asmara toad’?!This specific species name is

‘Asmari’ and it was found in 1982, 34 years ago. But nobody knows about it.

Do you know that the ‘Asmara toad’ is the only one animal named after a city?

It could be a national treasure...

In Green Island, Massawa, I met three young boys, all college students from Asmara. One was in the College of Business, and I don’t remember the others. But they were there just having a good time and enjoying themselves, and they were also really interested in what I was doing. So we talked a lot and they were immersed in what I was telling them. They told me that they would tell all of their friends about these tiny species which exist in abundance in Eritrea and have a vital role in biodiversity and the food chain.

You do the same now, you need tell your friends! Well, then again you will write about it, won’t you? I wish for people to hear and know about such things. It is really important.

Mostly people think of elephants and leopards, because Eritrea is in Africa. But you even have this small animal that is named after your city! They exist almost everywhere around you because they are well-suited for wet areas.

One of the many pleasures of being in your country was the fact

that I found so many species…we will conduct further DNA studies. And I have even found a toad that I don’t really know what it is.

Also, in Massawa I found gecko lizards that come out at night. They caught my interest because they were first found by the same person that described the sweet water turtle that I talked about earlier, found in 1827.

These small animals, like I said, are very important and they should be protected. But I also noticed that your country has taken, for now a long time, some serious steps in the conservation of nature. Wildlife, greenery, and forestry are well preserved…I now know that your forestry was devastated because of the war, but national enclosures and similar approaches will certainly bring you great outcomes. I have also seen that you don’t use plastic

bags! That is beautiful. Where I come from, they only just recently banned the use of plastic bags, but you have already done so for many years. And it is more of a tradition than a rule for you.

What else?

Aside from the toads and lizards, what I appreciated most was your culture and tradition. I was welcomed in ways that I will never forget. Everyone is friendly, kind, generous, and so eager to learn and know.

[Before coming to Eritrea] I was misinformed. I am glad I came to see for myself. Outside we hear that Eritrea is a closed country. But in reality it is a place of vibrant people. I also used to believe that you had no contact with the outside world, but I noticed that almost every house has a satellite dish panel and BBC is on almost everywhere.

Author’s note: after the formal interview, I had a pleasant chat with Ted. He told me that he enjoyed “mies,” a traditional Eritrean liquor. Ted also expressed astonishment and disbelief at seeing dancers doing the traditional Tigrinya dance routine – in which they move with elegant, rapid steps while balancing long-necked bottles of “areki” atop their heads. Our fella: the Asmara Toad! female & male. Ted’s ‘je ne sais quoi yet’

“People are always eager to know and learn”. Ted showing a young man a sweet turtle of 1827

Billion Temesghen