Individuals and institutions in the Central Region are taking voluntary blood donation initiative aimed at augmenting blood reserve of the National Blood Transfusion Center, report indicated. Asmara, 01 July 2020 – Individuals and institutions in the Central Region are taking voluntary blood donation initiative aimed at augmenting blood reserve of the National Blood Transfusion Center, report indicated. Accordingly, staff members of Geza Banda sub zone administration, Eritrean Airlines, as well as students of Nakfa School of Social Sciences donated 186 bags of blood. Speaking to Erina, Mr. Kibreab Gebru, head of Information and Promotion at the National Blood Transfusion Center pointing the significance of voluntary blood donation in saving lives called for increased participation of the public. Commending the initiative nationals are under taking to augment blood supply to health facilities during the time of corona virus pandemic, Ms. Alem Berhe, chairwoman of the National Voluntary Blood Donors Association called for integrated effort aimed at increasing the awareness of the public and the number of voluntary blood donors.

The Governor of Anseba Region, Mr. Abdella Musa conducted tour of inspection with a view to observe the progress of the implementation of development program and preparation of farmers to cultivate their lands before the coming of the rainfall season. Keren, 01 July 2020- The Governor of Anseba Region, Mr. Abdella Musa conducted tour of inspection with a view to observe the progress of the implementation of development program and preparation of farmers to cultivate their lands before the coming of the rainfall season. The tour of inspection that the Governor conducted from 5 to 27 June was also aimed at discussing with the concerned institutions on providing the public with efficient social services by identifying the strengths and shortcomings. In the course of his visit to educational and health facilities, nursery centers, dams, potable water distribution centers as well as agricultural projects, Mr. Musa was provided briefings by the heads of the institutions and coordinators of the projects. Commending for the effort being conducted to expand educational and health service provisions across the region, the residents called for speeding up the master plan semi-urban centers, provision of potable water supply, renovation of roads, as well as for addressing the shortcomings in the agricultural projects and introduction of solar system among others.

According to the report from the Ministry of Health, about half a million Nakfa and over 40 thousand Durham has been contributed by nationals inside the country and abroad to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 26 June 2020- According to the report from the Ministry of Health, about half a million Nakfa and over 40 thousand Durham has been contributed by nationals inside the country and abroad to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, employees of the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students contributed additional 124 thousand and 948 Nakfa, employees of the Central region administration additional 42 thousand 745 Nakfa, Victoria Bar 15 thousand Nakfa, Gurae Furniture 10 thousand Nakfa and small businesses and cooperative associations in the Central region contributed a total of 20 thousand and 500 Nakfa. Similarly, Eritrean nationals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, contributed 39 thousand and 350 and 1 thousand and 500 Durham respectively. In related news a number of nationals inside the country and abroad are continuing to allow the families renting their houses in various parts of the country to live free of rental payment ranging from one to three months.

President Isaias Afwerki in the morning hours of today, 26 June, held extensive discussion with Mr. Abdullah Hamdok, Prime Minister of the Republic of Sudan, on bilateral and regional issues. Asmara, 26 June 2020- President Isaias Afwerki in the morning hours of today, 26 June, held extensive discussion with Mr. Abdullah Hamdok, Prime Minister of the Republic of Sudan, on bilateral and regional issues. The two sides underlined that the Horn of Africa cooperation was not an option but a necessity.President Isaias and Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok stressed that the Horn of Africa would provide framework for resolution of all disputes and differences between the countries in the region.The meeting was attended by Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Presidential Adviser Mr. Yemane Gebreab and Mr. Ibrahim Idris, Charge d’Affairs at the Eritrean Embassy in Sudan on the Eritrean side and the Sudanese Ministers of Cabinet Affairs and Water and Irrigation.  

President Isaias Afwerki arrived in Khartoum for three-day working visit to the Sudan on invitation of Gen. Abdel Fatah al Burhan, President of the Sudanese Sovereign Council. Asmara, 25 June 2020- President Isaias Afwerki arrived in Khartoum for three-day working visit to the Sudan on invitation of Gen. Abdel Fatah al Burhan, President of the Sudanese Sovereign Council. Upon arrival at Khartoum International Airport, President Isaias was accorded warm welcome by Gen. Abdel Fatak al Burhan. In their first meeting today, President Isaias Afwerki and Gen, Abdel Fatah al Burhan reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and regional cooperation since the changes in the Sudan and the region. The two leaders also agreed to bolster joint efforts to advance the ambitious plans of the two countries for bilateral relationship as well as regional integration. The Presidential delegation includes Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Presidential Adviser Mr. Yemane Gebreab.        

On the invitation of Sudan's President of Sovereign Council, Gen. Abdel Fatah al Burhan, President Isaias Afwerki departed to Khartoum at 10:00 a.m. this morning for three-day working visit. Presidential delegation includes Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Pre. Adviser Yemane Gebreab. Asmara, 25 June 2020 -  On the invitation of Sudan's President of Sovereign Council, Gen. Abdel Fatah al Burhan, President Isaias Afwerki departed to Khartoum at 10:00 a.m. this morning for three-day working visit. Presidential delegation includes Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Pre. Adviser Yemane Gebreab.President Isaias Afwerki's current visit to the Sudan will focus on enhancement of bilateral ties as well as consolidation of ongoing endeavours for regional cooperation and integration.  

Owing to the expansion of health institutions and awareness raising campaigns, public knowledge on the importance of vaccination has increased resulting in the rise of vaccination coverage in the Southern Red Sea region. The comment was made by Mr. Humed idris, head of vaccination programs in the Ministry of Health branch in the region. Assab, 23 June 2020 – Owing to the expansion of health institutions and awareness raising campaigns, public knowledge on the importance of vaccination has increased resulting in the rise of vaccination coverage in the Southern Red Sea region. The comment was made by Mr. Humed idris, head of vaccination programs in the Ministry of Health branch in the region. Speaking to Erina, Mr. Humed said that vaccination programs conducted on regular basis in the health institutions of the Southern Red Sea region reached over 95% in the last five months and that the prevalence of communicable diseases has significantly declined. Pointing out that the sub zones only had vaccination storage capacity for one month and the region three months, Mr. Humed said that that all health facilities are equipped with additional refrigerators and that storage capacity of the sub zones and the region rose to three months and six months respectively. Finally, Mr. Humed commended parents for bringing their children to health stations for treatment on regular basis and that attests to the awareness created in the society.

Nationals in Ethiopia, Italy and Australia commemorated Martyrs Day with candle vigil and other programs respecting the guidelines issued to contain the spread of corona virus.   Asmara, 23 June 2020- Nationals in Ethiopia, Italy and Australia commemorated Martyrs Day with candle vigil and other programs respecting the guidelines issued to contain the spread of corona virus. At the event organized in connection with the Martyrs Day, nationals in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane, contributed a total of 16 thousand 855 Dollars to augment Martyrs Trust Fund while nationals in Brisbane pledged to assume responsibility of supporting 4 families of martyrs for two years. Similarly, members of the PFDJ organization in Sydney, Australia assumed the responsibility of supporting 2 families of martyrs for two years and nationals in New Zealand contributed 6 thousand Dollars to bolster the Martyrs Trust Fund. In related news, at a commemoration event organized, nationals in Addis Ababa contributed additional 267 thousand Birr to the effort to fight the spread of corona virus. Likewise, 51 nationals residing in the UK contributed 2 thousand and 720 Pounds to the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association. Nationals, small business and individuals in Gash Barka, Southern and Central regions extended financial and food items support to disadvantaged families with a view to ease the burden they might encounter due to the ‘Stay at Home’ guideline to combat the spread of corona virus.     

Eritrean nationals in Saudi Arabia, Republic of Sudan and Republic of South Sudan commemorated 20 June, Martyrs Day with patriotic zeal. Asmara, 21 June 2020- Eritrean nationals in Saudi Arabia, Republic of Sudan and Republic of South Sudan commemorated 20 June, Martyrs Day with patriotic zeal. According to reports, the nationals commemorated Martyrs Day with candle vigil in their homes respecting the guidelines of their respective countries of residence to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Nationals in Saudi Arabia as part of the support they were extending to families of martyrs, they contributed 46 thousand Riyals in support of 13 families of martyrs. Nationals in Bahrain also contributed 7 thousand Riyals to augment the Martyrs Trust Fund. In the same vein, at the commemoration they conducted in connection with 20 June, Martyrs Day, the Eritrean community in Kassalla, Republic of Sudan, took the responsibility of supporting two families of martyrs, while Eritrean community in the Sudanese Red Sea region, PFDJ organization and the Eritrean Embassy as well as St. Michael and Abune-Aregawi Churches contributed 10 thousand and 800 Sudanese Pound towards augmenting Martyrs Trust Fund and they pledged to take responsibility of supporting five families of martyrs. Similarly, nationals in the Republic of South Sudan also enthusiastically commemorated Martyrs Day. In related news, the social service provision institutions and Government employees in the Southern Red Sea region pledged to support 20 families of martyrs for one year. Indicating that supporting families of martyrs is the responsibility of every citizen, the administrator of Assab sub-zone, Mr. Tesfay Zere said that the nationals have pledged to provide each family of the martyrs 500 Nakfa each for one year. Members of the Youth Workers organization in the Southern Red Sea region have also took the responsibility of supporting 15 families of martyrs for one year.

June 20, Eritrea’s Martyrs Day was commemorated by nationals inside the country and abroad with patriotic zeal. Asmara, 20 June 2020- June 20, Eritrea’s Martyrs Day was commemorated by nationals inside the country and abroad with patriotic zeal. President Isaias Afwerki, in the morning hours of today, 20 June, laid wreath at the Asmara Patriots Cemetery in tribute to the Eritrea’s heroes and heroines that sacrificed their precious lives to the country’s independence and safeguarding the national sovereignty. Similarly, Martyrs Day was commemorated in all regions of the country with putting wreath at their respective Martyrs Cemeteries. Exactly at 1:00 o’clock, a minute of silence in memory of the fallen heroes and heroines was conducted by nationals inside the country and abroad in their homes respecting the guidelines issued to combat the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. On 19 June nationals inside the country and abroad also commemorated Martyrs Day with candle vigil inside their homes. In related news, as part of the Martyrs Day commemoration the remains of 14 heroes who sacrificed their dear lives at the Dekemhare front, Southern region, during the final offensive to liberate the country have been laid to rest in honor at the Dekemhare Patriots Cemetery.

The Edaga-Hamus sub-zone, Central region extended financial support to families of martyrs in connection with 20 June, Martyrs Day. Asmara, 19 June 2020- The Edaga-Hamus sub-zone, Central region extended financial support to families of martyrs in connection with 20 June, Martyrs Day. Expressing appreciation for the support they were provided, the beneficiary families said that the initiative the nationals took attests to the respect and honor the Eritrean people have towards their martyrs. In related news, staff members of the Ministry of Education in the Northern Red Sea region extended financial support to 5 families of martyrs. The martyrs’ families were provided with 6000 Nakfa each. Indicating that supporting the families of martyrs is the responsibility of every citizen, the staff members said that the initiative they took gives them spiritual satisfaction and called on others to follow their noble example.Commending the initiative the members of the Ministry of Education branch took to support the families of martyrs, Mr. Reshid Mohammed-Osman, head of the branch office in the region, called for transferring the noble value to posterity. The beneficiary families also expressed appreciation for the support they were provided. Similarly, residents of four administrative areas in Adi-Keih sub-zone, Southern region and government workers in Hagaz sub-zone, Anseba region, extended financial support to families of martyrs in connection with 20 June, Martyrs Day.

Message of the Ministry of Agriculture in connection with the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought Message of the Ministry of Agriculture in connection with The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought June 17, 2020   According to a statistical report of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD),•    Today, more than two billion hectares of previously productive land is degraded.•    Over 70 per cent of natural ecosystems are affected by human use. By 2050, this could reach 90 per cent, unless we change.•    By 2030, food production will require an additional 300 million hectares of land.•    By 2030, the fashion industry is predicted to use 35 per cent more land – which is over 115 million hectares.•    Clothing and footwear production causes 8 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure predicted to rise almost 50 per cent by 2030.•    Dietary change can free up between 80 and 240 million hectares of land. Eliminating waste can free up land used to produce 1.3 billion tons of food, which has a footprint of 1.4 billion hectares.Therefore, this year’s theme “Food, Feed, Fibre” draws attention to the link between production, consumption, and land.•    The focus is raising awareness and changing public attitudes that humanity’s relentless production and consumption is a leading driver of desertification and land degradation, meaning the decisions we make as individuals matter.•    There is far greater demand for land to provide food, animal feed and fibre for clothing to support growing populations, human’s changing lifestyles and consumer behaviour. Meanwhile, the health and productivity of existing arable land is declining, worsened by climate change.•    The consumption of food, feed, fibre is also contributing to climate change, with around a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions coming from agriculture, forestry and other land use. This rises to about a third of the emissions when you add the costs in the entire supply chain.•    Simple changes in diet and behaviours – such as cutting food waste, buying from local markets and swapping clothes instead of always buying new – can free up land for other uses, lower carbon emissions and improve our quality of life.•    In our globalized world, the food we eat, and the clothes we wear impact land thousands of miles away but every one of us can protect the land by making simple changes in our lives. We can support community resilience, maintain the sustainable delivery of ecosystem services and contribute to reducing the impact on global poverty and food insecurity, made worse by recurring disasters and diseases like the COVID-19.•    To build back better from COVID-19, we must create a new social contract for nature. If we chose to work in harmony with nature, we will avoid waste and future land degradation, we will reduce carbon emissions and reverse biodiversity loss.•    Land is part of the solution to deliver on targets set out in the Sustainable Development Goals; scaling land restoration and nature-based solutions bring multiple co-benefits.•    UNCCD parties have earmarked degrading areas for restoration by 2030 to ensure land conversion to meet the global demand for food needed by 2050 is necessary.Eritrea’s contextSince most of Eritrean people depend on Agriculture for livelihood, land is a centre of gravity for most of our policies. For this reason, the Government of Eritrea has been working prudently to improve land productivity and minimizing land degradation. On and off farm Soil and water conservation programs; construction of different kinds of water reservoirs as well as launching the Greening Campaign are among major initiatives of the government of Eritrea towards restoring degraded land and thereby improving land productivity. However, Eritrea’s natural location makes it prone to adverse effects of drought and desertification. This natural challenge is also aggravated by various man made interferences like tree cutting for fire wood and agricultural expansion; overgrazing and so on.In order to mitigate the effects of drought and desertification in Eritrea, the following focus areas are reinforced;-    Promoting community based activities to improve land productivity-    Harvesting water, from all kinds of sources, for its best use in improving agricultural productivity-    Introducing sustainable alternative energy sources to minimize tree cutting-    Raising awareness of the public on environment conservation in general and on soil fertility conservation in particular-    Fostering international and regional engagements through pragmatic initiativesCurrently, the world is suffering from the catastrophic effects of COVID-19. Food and Nutrition are also obviously affected by this pandemic. Hence, to mitigate effects of this pandemic in food supply, we need to reinforce the ongoing efforts of agricultural development programs, in coherence with COVID-19 control guidelines, through active participation of the general public and relevant sectors.The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought – is observed every year to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification.Ministry of AgricultureJune 17, 2020Asmara

According to report from the Ministry of Health, Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad contributed about 600 thousand Nakfa and over 16 thousand Dollars to the effort to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 06 June 2020- According to report from the Ministry of Health, Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad contributed about 600 thousand Nakfa and over 16 thousand Dollars to the effort to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, ‘Zaer’ Private Company contributed 364 thousand and 356 Nakfa, Colluli Mining Company 46 thousand and 570 Nakfa, ‘Alfa’ Mining Company 3 thousand Dollars, ‘Andiamo’ Mining Company 3 thousand Dollars, Eritrean Embassy in Washington 10 thousand Dollars, European Union office in Eritrea 29 thousand Nakfa and Gash Barka administration, vegetables and fruits farmers in Kerkebet and Forto-Sawa contributed a total of 158 thousand and 247 Nakfa. Small businesses in the Central region contributed a total of 54 thousand Nakfa while cooperative associations and small businesses in Gash Barka and Southern region contributed 594 thousand and471 Nakfa and other individual nationals 8 thousand and 200 Dollars.

The Governor of the Anseba region, Ambassador Abdella Musa conducted tour of inspection on 5 June to the development sites and social service provision institutions in the Elaberet sub-zone. Keren, 06 June 2020- The Governor of the Anseba region, Ambassador Abdella Musa conducted tour of inspection on 5 June to the development sites and social service provision institutions in the Elaberet sub-zone. The development sites and social service provision institutions that Ambassador Abdella visited included the dams, micro-dams educational and health facilities as well as Elaberet Agricultural project and others and he was provided briefings by concerned bodies. In Eleberet sub-zone there are seven dams and micro-dams with capacity of holding from 600 to 200 thousand meter cube of water and the study to construct one additional dam that could cultivate 160 hectares of land has been finalized. According to the document from the sub-zone, in Elaberet sub-zone there are one community hospital, 4 health stations as well as 12 community kindergartens, 24 elementary, 10 Junior and 4 high schools.

The Ministry of Land, Water and Environment called for reinforced water, soil and environmental conservation. The call was made in connection with 5 June World Environment Day. Asmara, 05 June 2020- The Ministry of Land, Water and Environment called for reinforced water, soil and environmental conservation. The call was made in connection with 5 June World Environment Day. The World Environment Day is being observed for the 47th time under the theme “Conservation and Development of Bio-Diversity” at a time of corona virus pandemic that is taking hundreds of thousands of lives throughout the world. Indicating that the food we drink, the air we breathe, the water we drink and the climate that makes our planet habitable comes from nature, the statement released by the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment pointed out that despite all the benefits that we receive from the planet humans are being observed to mistreat it and that is causing environmental imbalance and degradation of bio-diversity and as a result endangering the lives of humans. The Ministry further said that according to the study conducted, from the 8 million animal and plant species world wide and from the so far identified 3062 in Eritrea, 31% are on the verge of extinction and called for integrated effort for redressing the environment with a view to transfer it to posterity.

Contribution by nationals towards the fight to contain the spread of Covid-19 pandemic is stepping up. Asmara, 03 June 2020- Contribution by nationals towards the fight to contain the spread of Covid-19 pandemic is stepping up. According to report, staff members of the PFDJ Central Office and branches contributed a total of 795 thousand and 212 Nakfa, staff members of the PFDJ of Southern region 139 thousand and 791 Nakfa, staff members of PFDJ of Anseba region 121 thousand and 931 Nakfa, staff members of PFDJ of the Northern Red Sea region 121 thousand and 281 Nakfa, staff members of PFDJ of Gash Barka region 106 thousand 733 Nakfa, staff members of PFDJ of Southern Red Sea region 33 thousand and 261 Nakfa and staff members of PFDJ Foreign Affairs 23 thousand and 555 Nakfa. Similarly, staff members and teachers of Airiri School contributed 76 thousand and 953 Nakfa, and two administrative areas in Dekemhare sub-zone and a number of small businesses, cooperative associations and individuals in the Central region contributed a total of 54 thousand and 439 Nakfa. In related news,  a number of administrative areas in Dekemhare sub-zone and the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association extended food items and cleaning materials to disadvantaged citizens while national inside the country and abroad decided that the families renting their houses to live free of charge ranging from two to six months.

Nationals residing in Canada, Belgium and the Netherlands enthusiastically celebrated the 29th Independence Day anniversary under the theme “Resilience and Progress”. Asmara, 30 May 2020- Nationals residing in Canada, Belgium and the Netherlands enthusiastically celebrated the 29th Independence Day anniversary under the theme “Resilience and Progress”. According to report, Eritrean nationals in Toronto, Canada, celebrated the Independence Day anniversary by waving the Eritrean flag in the streets of the city respecting the guidelines of social distancing and gathering.Nationals in Brussels, Belgium also celebrated the 29th Independence Day with patriotic zeal. Congratulating the Eritrean people and its Defense Forces, Mr. Negassi Kassa, Eritrean Ambassador to the European Union, said that the celebrations the Eritrean people conducted across the world attests to the love they have to their country and people. Nationals in the Netherlands also celebrated the Independence Day anniversary through the social media outlets. Mr. Solomon Mehari, Eritrean Consul in the Netherlands commending the organizers of the program, called on nationals to strengthen contribution to the effort the people and Government of Eritrea are exerting to fight the spread of the corona virus pandemic.

According to report from the Ministry of Health, Eritrean nationals working at the Israel Embassy contributed 16 thousand Nakfa, BISELEX Eritrea P.L.C 10 thousand Nakfa, and other social service provision institutions contributed 16 thousand Nakfa. Asmara, 28 May 2020- According to report from the Ministry of Health, Eritrean nationals working at the Israel Embassy contributed 16 thousand Nakfa, BISELEX Eritrea P.L.C 10 thousand Nakfa, and other social service provision institutions contributed 16 thousand Nakfa. Similarly, a number of administrative areas and cooperative associations in the Central region contributed a total of 75 thousand and 151 Nakfa. Small business and individuals in Asmara also contributed a total of 108 thousand and 200 Nakfa. Likewise, residents of a number of administrative areas in the Southern region extended financial and material support to disadvantaged families in their respective areas. In related news a number of nationals inside the country and abroad decided that the families renting their houses to live free of charge ranging from two to four months.

Eritreans in the US and Australia have enthusiastically celebrated the 29th Independence Day anniversary respecting the guidelines of social distancing and gathering to fight the spread of corona virus pandemic. Asmara, 28 May 2020- Eritreans in the US and Australia have enthusiastically celebrated the 29th Independence Day anniversary respecting the guidelines of social distancing and gathering to fight the spread of corona virus pandemic. The celebrations in the United States that was conducted from 1 to 24 May through the social media outlets included interviews depicting the history of the struggle for independence, cultural programs, photo exhibition, memories of nationals about the Independence Day, messages of solidarity by various American officials as well as other activities portraying the day. In the message he delivered, Mr. Berhane Gebrehiwet, Charge d’Affairs at the Eritrean Embassy, commended the strong participation and contribution of nationals in the effort the people and Government of Eritrea are exerting to fight the spread of corona virus A virtual ceremony was also held to graduate about 200 students that completed their secondary school education. Similarly, Eritrean nationals residing in Australia and New Zealand celebrated the 29th Independence Day anniversary with patriotic zeal under the theme “Resilience and Progress”. At the occasion, Mr. Mehari Tekeste, Consul General at the Eritrean Embassy in Australia, congratulated the Eritrean people inside the country and abroad in connection with Independence Day anniversary and Eid Al Fetir Holiday.

Annex I (Excerpts from President Isaias Afwerki’s Keynote Addresses at Independence Anniversary in 2017 on short and medium term developmental programmes and priorities) Annex I (Excerpts from President Isaias Afwerki’s Keynote Addresses at Independence Anniversary in 2017 on short and medium term developmental programmes and priorities)o   The strategy of harnessing and harvesting rainfall.  This involves building the necessary water infrastructure through even spatial distribution and in a phased manner in order to ensure optimal utilization of our water, land and climatic resources and endowments with the ultimate aim of increasing agricultural production both in quantitative and qualitative terms through the introduction of modern technology. o   In marine resources, to pursue a similar strategy to build the requisite infrastructure in order to increase our domestic productive capacity;o   To funnel investment and more vigorous work to the energy sector so as to implement, in a modular manner, our planned schemes of revamping power generation and supply through the right mix of policy choices (thermal, solar, wind and other modalities of alternative energy).   This is critical and indispensable for strengthening our developmental programmes in several sectors and especially for embarking on manufacturing and industrialization, due to its obvious strategic importance, at a fast pace. o   To increase investment in order to upgrade our domestic resources and capacity for the effective implementation of our programmes of physical infrastructure; (roads, ports, harbours, airports as well as housing projects that are being implemented at a slow pace);o   To increase public transport both in quality and quantity;o   To pursue the ongoing fiscal and monetary restructuring through more robust and qualitative administrative and managerial inputs;o   To enhance effective and efficient administrative competences by further reviewing and strengthening efforts already underway to address weakness and corrupt practices at various levels of administration;o   To increase integrated investment in our educational system – in terms of curriculum and supportive instruments, teachers/experts, infrastructure and other vital facilities – so as to augment our human capital and its multiplier dimensions through special attention and highest priority;o   To review already charted-out programmes and plans of action to encourage and ensure the participation and contribution of all Eritreans who reside abroad in all our developmental programmes;These are the main priorities of the coming three to five years Annex 2 (Excerpts from President Isaias Afwerki’s Keynote Addresses at Independence Anniversary in 2018 on short and medium term developmental programmes and priorities) o   Water infrastructure and distribution: To further refine our programmes of water supply for household, agriculture, and industrial consumption with the utilization of modern technology and associated means.o   Road, rail, cableway and oil pipelines:  The three phases of i) renovation of existing systems; ii) expansion to ensure higher efficiency; and iii) implementation of new schemes that we have been pursuing in all these categories should be pursued with greater efficiency and expeditious scale of implementation.o   Ports and coastlines: To revive projects that were obstructed and interrupted, with upgraded plans and implement them within a wide framework of cooperation and partnership.o   Power generation and electricity supply:  To replace the old and unreliable power generation system with a functional grid in the interim period and focus on the design and implementation of an expansive system that will adequately meet all long-term needs and requirements.o   Efficient and effective modern domestic road; rail, sea and air transport:  To link these systems with regional networks within a revised plan.o   Housing:  To implement-with revised plans, better technology and efficiency -  various housing projects that have not been successful so far as provision of housing remains one of the fundamental yardsticks for measuring the quality of life.   o   Health and Education Services:  To modernize the health infrastructure to address wider category of health needs and services; to prioritize effective and all-rounded investment in education in order to improve access at all levels and thereby bolster our human capital which is critical for development and nation-building.o   Industrial sector: To undertake comprehensive review – of each programme and each enterprise -  in order to formulate and implement a refined investment road-map.o   Implementation: To polish existing implementation mechanism in all the Development Fronts for higher effectiveness and to especially expedite the review of programmes and modalities underway to match the decisive contributions of our citizens in the Diaspora.o   Ensuring efficiency and effectiveness: to strengthen the relentless fight against corruption and speculation.o   Regional partnership and stability: to actively create a conducive regional climate for mutual respect and genuine partnership that enhance domestic development programmes.

Keynote AddressbyPresident Isaias Afwerki29th Independence AnniversaryAsmara,24 May 2020 Ladies and Gentlemen, Allow me to extend my warmest congratulations to the entire people of Eritrea inside the country and abroad on this auspicious, 2020, National Independence Day.  Let me also express profound gratitude to the Commission of Culture and Sports, all other entities, and, individuals involved in the creative preparation of programmes and events so as to imbue due splendor to this momentous day despite the looming threat of the Coronavirus pandemic. Ladies and Gentlemen, Leaving aside the controversial issues on how and where from COVID-19 originated, the colossal threat of this sudden pandemic - unprecedented in the annals of the history of mankind – and that is claiming, sadly, a huge loss of life is indeed a wake-up call for all of us.  What is more perplexing is that the calamity is occurring in the 21st century; in an era of high scientific progress.  In the event, it is timely and incumbent on us to draw appropriate lessons from this disaster, deepen our knowledge and understanding, and adjust our overall approach and roadmap for the period ahead. In the early days when the threat of the pandemic was looming, there was virtually no information that was known or could be known about its nature.  This coupled with our limited capabilities gave us no alternative other than implementing preventive lock-down measures.  The efforts undertaken by the Task Force on Health that consisted of putting in quarantine all travelers who entered the country, tracing contacts of positively diagnosed patients, have produced positive preliminary results so far. But we must realize that we are grappling with a complex situation.  The mystery of this pandemic – which does not know borders or other limiting parameters - cannot be deciphered and conclusively inferred on the basis of brief observation.  Our approach and preliminary road-map must accordingly consist of: 1.    Our focus and efforts must be geared to consolidating and enhancing our long-term capabilities and strategies of prevention;2.    To develop a mechanism for testing that initially starts with a sample and base-line data but whose scope will ultimately be extended to cover all citizens inside the country as well as abroad and that will include periodic monitoring;  3.    Enforcing strict modalities of control for the movement of people  – normative or irregular - to and from the country;  4.    To upgrade qualitatively and expand spatially our research institutions and laboratories; 5.    To strengthen the Health Services in terms of their organizational structure, outreach and equipment;6.    To develop effective and professional human capital above and beyond other factors;7.    To upgrade our capabilities in the manufacturing of drugs. medical equipment and facilities; 8.    To foster and enhance technical cooperation with various foreign institutions and experts. This is easier said than done.  It will require time and resources.  Its implementation and further elaboration will constitute one of the primary challenges in the period ahead.  While expressing my gratitude to the Task Force for what has been accomplished to-date, I wish them success for heavier tasks that lay ahead. Ladies and Gentlemen, At this juncture where the mantra of “Resilience and Progress” embodies our overall approach, the threat of the pandemic, periodic and looming locust infestation and other obstacles cannot be seen in isolation from our basic developmental challenges.   I have attached as an annex below, for reference, the developmental programmes and priorities that were spelled out in my speeches at Independence Day in 2018 and 2019, respectively.   In view of the outbreak of COVID 19, it is evident that the implementation of our developmental programmes will not progress with the anticipated pace.  We will need to redouble our efforts in proportion to the magnitude of the challenges. In this respect, we are marshalling necessary resources to better utilize the Asmera short rains. The essence is: integrated, redoubled and sustainable efforts and measures to surmount all challenges. Ladies and Gentlemen, Domestic developments and capabilities are evidently the decisive parameters in any equation.  Still, the relevance and impact of global and regional developments and trends are palpable to which we attach great importance.  For obvious reasons, we have been pursuing policies of constructive engagement so as to nurture a conducive environment of regional cooperation and genuine partnership.  In this respect, we continue to be engaged in our neighborhood with greater vigour by assessing objectively the developments and trends that have transpired in the past two years and bearing in mind all possible scenarios. We must recognize that the global ramifications of the pandemic, that is becoming increasingly apparent, will have significant impact on our domestic as well as regional situation.  The fall out of the Cold War and the futile attempts carried out to establish a uni-polar global order have exacted precious sacrifices for three generations in our contemporary history.  This is the lesson of history and is engraved in our collective memory.  One of the unique features of the Coronavirus pandemic is, that it has entailed massive economic destruction and commotion in a relatively short time.  It has further exposed the vulnerability of the global economic order. The global financial crisis, which has not been rectified, and that stemmed from speculative practices and associated erratic stock exchange fluctuations, is a manifestation of the structural imbalance that has evolved incrementally in the past 100 years.  The outfits of usury and plunder had become more sophisticated particularly after the end of the Second World War. Investment policy of the developed countries – and particularly the US and Europe – was geared towards China in the past 70 years and more so in the last 30 years.  This was prompted by considerations of:  i) cheap and abundant labour; ii) availability of relatively cheap energy; iii) a culture of low consumerism; iv) political and social stability; v) erroneous assumption that the Chinese will not be innovative to go beyond imitation and that this can be controlled remotely by their banks and stock markets.  These presumptions drove them to transfer and install their manufacturing industries, gradually, to China.  China leveraged its advantages and the opportunities that were available to build its own, technology and knowledge-based industrial platform and superior economy within the last 70 years.  This fact is corroborated by China’s industrial output and other “paramount” economic indicators, aggregate US debt from China, trade imbalance between the US and China as well as objective projections of future economic trends. The unfolding friction triggered by the pandemic is the symptom of the accumulated conditions of the global economic order in the last two centuries. How will relations develop? What will be China’s stance and direction of policy? What will be the domestic and regional implications of the various scenarios that may be contemplated?  The consequences will not be simple and they cannot be glossed over.  Indeed, this will require serious evaluation and appraisal as well as avoidance of premature conclusions. Ladies and Gentlemen, Resilience and Progress are predicated on awareness and steadfastness.  The awareness and participation in developmental programmes exhibited by the Eritrean people in this short period in the fight against COVID-19 is commendable and guarantees our steady progress in overcoming all challenges in the period ahead.  The commitment and diligence of the Defense Forces, the Police and Security, in performing their duties to combat the threat of the pandemic, locust infestation as well as developmental tasks underscore their firm loyalty to the oath they have pledged.  This also amplifies their confidence.   The material contributions made and empathy demonstrated by our compatriots abroad is another inspiring gesture.  Nothing is impossible for a nation and people endowed with these unparalleled resources. May our independence and sovereignty be respected forever! Happy Eid El Fatir!Best wishes for a good rainy season!Glory to our MartyrsVictory to the Masses!

Eritrea's senior delegation met with First Vice President of the Sovereign Council, Mohammed Hamdan Deglo, and Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdock in Khartoum yesterday and today. The discussions focused on bilateral ties and regional cooperation.   Asmara, 18 May 2020 - Eritrea's senior delegation met with First Vice President of the Sovereign Council, Mohammed Hamdan Deglo, and Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdock in Khartoum yesterday and today. The discussions focused on bilateral ties and regional cooperation. At the meetings, the First Vice President Mohammed Hamdan Deglo expressed appreciation for President Isaias' initiative to spur the partnership with Sudan and his efforts to promote regional cooperation. Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdock for his part underlined the dividend of partnership and joint efforts of both countries for viable regional integration.

The first phase of the random and extensive testing to gauge the spread of COVID-19 in the country was carried out in several sections of Asmara today 17 May. Asmara, 17 May 2020 – The first phase of the random and extensive testing to gauge the spread of COVID-19 in the country was carried out in several sections of Asmara today 17 May. According to the statement the High Level Task Force released on 16 May, the objective of the random and extensive COVID-19 testing is to gauge the spread of COVID-19 in the country in a comprehensive and more reliable manner. The first phase testingwill include towns and villages in border areas, as well as front-line employees in the Ministry of Health and other relevant institutions.

The 29th Independence Day Anniversary will be celebrated under the theme “Resilience and Progress”, the chairman of the National Holidays Coordinating Committee, Ambassador Zemede Tekle stated.   Asmara, 17 May 2020 - The 29th Independence Day Anniversary will be celebrated under the theme “Resilience and Progress”, the chairman of the National Holidays Coordinating Committee, Ambassador Zemede Tekle stated. According to Ambassador Zemede, the 29th Independence Anniversary will be celebrated under prevailing global reality of the spread of corona virus and lockdown guidelines. The chairman also indicated that variety of programmes - documentaries; short films; dramas, and concerts prepared by the Ministry of Information and the National Committee for Public Holidays will be broadcast from 19-27 May on Eri-TV, Radio Dimtsi Hafash.

Eritrea’sdelegation composed of Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Presidential Adviser Yemane Gebreab met in Khartoum today President of Sovereign Council Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan and delivered letter from President Isaias Afwerki on bilateral and regional cooperation even as fight for COVID-19 continues. Asmara, 17 May 2020 - Eritrea’sdelegation composed of Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Presidential Adviser Yemane Gebreab met in Khartoum today President of Sovereign Council Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan and delivered letter from President Isaias Afwerki on bilateral and regional cooperation even as fight for COVID-19 continues. Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Military Council of Sudan, welcomed Eritrea's message which he described as one of the closest countries to Sudan. President Al Burhan concurred that it was indeed necessary to take concrete steps to advance bilateral and regional cooperation. Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan also briefed the delegation on developments in the Sudan.  

The residents of the sub-zones of Serejeka, Gejeret and Arbaete Asmar have extended financial and material support to disadvantaged families in their areas. Asmara, 16 May 2020- The residents of the sub-zones of Serejeka, Gejeret and Arbaete Asmar have extended financial and material support to disadvantaged families in their areas. According to report, the residents of Serejeka sub-zone extended financial and food items to families of martyrs and disadvantaged citizens. Edaga-Arbi cooperative association and five bakeries in Arbaete Asmara also extended food items worth 38 thousand Nakfa to disadvantaged families in their area. Likewise, the residents of Gejeret sub-zone extended financial support to 40 disadvantaged families in their area. A number of house owners in the sub-zones also decided that the families renting their houses to live free of charge ranging from two to six months. In related news, the residents of the sub-zones of Mai-Aini and Mai-Mine as well as members of the Eritrean Defense Forces extended material support to disadvantaged families in their areas.