Vol 28. No.15 Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

Anseba and NRS Regions share meeting Material support The Administrations of Anseba of , gave an extensive Massawa has helped them gain and Northern Regions briefing on the efforts made in the experience on the successful to disabled nationals organized experience sharing successful implementation of the implementation of community A group of Eritrean nationals in known as “Eri-Childhood” meeting on the implementation of environmental sanitation activities based environmental sanitation contributed 100 wheelchairs to disabled nationals. community based environmental as well as on the challenges programs. sanitation activities. encountered. According to Mr. Gebrehiwet Tekle, head of Physiotherapy Center The Governor of the Northern at the Orotta Referral Hospital, the wheelchairs will have significant At the meeting conducted on Indicating that the progress Red Sea Region, Ms. Asmeret contribution in alleviating the problem of the disabled citizens and their 5 June, the Governor of Anseba registered is the outcome of Abraha, on her part indicated that care takers and expressed appreciation for the initiative the members of region, Ambassador Abdela Mussa, effective awareness raising community led environmental the “Eri-Childhood” took. and his entourage accompanied by campaigns and integrated effort sanitation activities implemented Ms. Asmeret Abraha, Governor of of stakeholders, Mr. Haile in the region are part of the Mr. Meseret Fisehaye, representative of the group, on his part said the , visited said that intensive monitoring national program, and expressed that the “Eri-Childhood” group has so far contributed 250 wheelchairs various localities in Massawa, activities are being made to ensure readiness to share experience on to disabled nationals. where environmental sanitation sustainability. the program. activities have been implemented The wheelchairs have been distributed to all region including 50 to and was given briefings. Ambassador Abdela Musa on Ambassador Abdela Musa and , 20 to Southern region, 15 to Gash Barka, as well as 5 his part expressed conviction that his entourage also conducted a each to the Anseba, Northern and Southern Red Sea regions. At the event, Mr. Haile the visits conducted on various visit at the Poly Plastic Factory in Asfaha, Mayor of the port city localities of the Port city of Massawa.

Soil and water conservation activities Extensive water and soil in the construction and renovation farming and that so far date conservation activities aimed at of flood damaged water diversion seedlings are provided to 10 boosting agricultural productivity schemes, embankments, as well exemplary farmers and that are in and developing vegetables and as terraces. good condition. fruits farming activities is being exerted in Foro sub-zone. Further stating that if properly The head of Plant Protection watered the farmland can yield in Foro sub-zone, Mr. Asmerom Indicating that there is about 8 three times a year Mr. Asmerom Shimondi, finally, called for thousand and 200 hectares of rain said that expert advices for farmers sustainable solutions to the fed farm as well as 100 hectares of from professionals to introduce agricultural infrastructure that vegetables and fruits farmland that modern farming activities has is being frequently exposed to is being cultivated in Foro sub- registered encouraging result. flooding. zone, Mr. Asmerom Shimondi, head of plant protection at the sub- He went on to say that effort zone said that farmers are engaged is underway to introduce date Hagaz Agricultural and Technical school Announcement from the graduates 273 students Hagaz Agricultural and the school, said that the school Education is working to introduce Technical school has on 5 June since its establishment is making new curriculum in Technical, Ministry of Health graduated 273 students including significant contribution in the Business and Agricultural schools Ninety-eight patients have been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in 108 females in certificate. nation building process and called with a view to produce competent tests carried out yesterday at Quarantine Centers and OPD Services in the on the graduates to demonstrate students that could have significant Central, Northern Red Sea, Southern, and Anseba Regions. The graduates include 66 in excellence in the fields of their contribution in the nation building Agro-Mechanics, 76 in Plant assignment. process. Out of these, seventy-one patients are from Quarantine Centers and OPD Science, 63 in Water and Soil Services in , Central Region. Fifteen patients are from Quarantine Conservation and Irrigation as Mr. Measho Gebretensae, head The representative of the students Centers in Afabet (14), and Massawa (1); Northern Red Sea Region. Eight well as 68 in Animal Science. of Quality Control at the Technical on his part commending for the patients are from Quarantine Centers in Mendefera (4), Senafe (2), and and Vocational Training Office opportunity they were provided Areza (2); Southern Region. The last four patients are from Quarantine Speaking at the occasion, of the Ministry of Education on expressed conviction to live up to Centers in Keren, . Brother Isaias Tsegai, head of his part said that the Ministry of the expectations.

On the other hand, sixty-seven patients who have been receiving medical treatment in hospitals in the Central (63), and Southern (4), Regions have recovered fully and have been discharged from these facilities.

The total number of recovered patients to-date has accordingly risen to 4,054 while the number of deaths is 14.

The total number of confirmed cases in the country to-date has increased to 4,597.

Ministry of Health Asmara 8 June 2021 Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 2

Education: a commitment to rights, social justice, and development

Dr. Fikrejesus Amahazion

Two weeks ago, several new schools in the administrative areas of Agmait and Akaide, both located within Kerkebet sub-zone, were inaugurated. During the colorful opening ceremonies, which were conducted in the presence of various public officials, community and religious elders, and some members of the local public, brief tours of the newly-constructed buildings and campus grounds were provided, several speeches were delivered, and Before After prizes were awarded to outstanding students by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare branch in the of so many people who have worked learning, wrote, “If a man neglects Sustainable Development Goal 4 the Child (1989, Article 28). What is region. The schools were financed tirelessly to plan, organize, finance, education, he walks lame to the end [SDG 4] is the education goal and more, of course, is that in addition and built through a collaborative and construct the schools. However, of his life.” has a total of 10 individual targets.) to being a basic, stand-alone human effort, which included the Office of in addition to being a positive and right, education is also a powerful Construction Development in the encouraging feel good story, the As demonstrated by a large body Within this context, the recent mechanism in the realization and Gash Barka region, the Ministry of news of the recent school openings of empirical work from various school openings and expanded exercise of an array of other human Education, Border Patrol Units, and in Agmait and Akaide raises several settings around the world, education educational opportunities in Agmait rights. (For instance, education and various local communities. important points worthy of further and improved literacy are significant and Akaide are significant and literacy can help in the fulfillment of consideration. drivers of sustained economic noteworthy for the potentially the rights to employment, housing, Personally, as an Eritrean and growth and increased incomes. (For transformational impact and positive freedom from hunger, adequate an educator, the news of the recent One is the general importance instance, studies have shown how role that they can have on the local standard of living, among others.) school openings is extremely of education and the fact that another year of schooling raises youth and the general communities. exciting and a point of deep tremendous benefits stand to be earnings by 10 percent a year.) As As a final point, the recent school happiness. It is also a moment for gained by improving and expanding well, education and literacy are Another important dimension openings also serve as a clear genuine appreciation, gratitude, and educational opportunities. The late fundamental in helping to promote of the story of the recent school illustration and powerful embodiment pride, particularly in recognition of South African President Nelson sustainable development and reduce openings is how it serves as a strong of the concept of social justice. the tremendous efforts and sacrifices Mandela, undoubtedly one of the inequality, ultimately empowering and useful reminder that education According to the UN, “social justice greatest leaders of our time and people, enabling them to participate is a fundamental human right, may be broadly understood as the recognized by the United Nations fully in society, and contributing to recognized and affirmed as such fair and compassionate distribution (UN) as a global champion of peace, tangible improvements in livelihoods. within a large number of international of the fruits of economic growth.” reconciliation, and understanding, Notably, as a strong testament to and regional rights conventions The concept of social justice has is purported to have once said, their truly transformational impact, and documents. These include, for significantly grown and expanded “Education is the most powerful expanding educational opportunities instance, the Universal Declaration over the decades. It is now common weapon which you can use to change and raising literacy represent key of Human Rights (adopted 1948, to hear reference to it in discussions Published Every the world.” Many centuries prior to and integral parts of the African Article 26), the International about gender, race, education, health, Published Every the great African statesman, the Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Covenant on Economic, Social and the economy, and the environment. SaturdayPublished & Wednesday Every ancient philosopher Plato, expressing UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Cultural Rights (1966, Article 13), In Eritrea, social justice has long Wednesday & Saturday the importance of education and Development. (For example, UN and the Convention on the Rights of been one of the country’s main basic Saturday & Wednesday goals, and is outlined within the National Charter (February 1994), Acting Editor which declares the aim, “Equitable Acting Editor distribution of wealth, services and Amanuel Mesfun opportunities, and special attention [email protected] Mesfun to be paid to the most disadvantaged [email protected] sections of society.” P.O.Box: 247 P.O.Box: 247 In terms of the recent school Tel: 11-41-14 openings, one can quickly and Fax: 12-77-49 quite clearly recognize the concept Fax: 12-77-49 of social justice and the strong E-mail: commitment to the less advantaged [email protected]@[email protected] zena.gov.er or most marginalized. It is apparent, Advertisement: 12-50-13 for instance, in how the geographic Advertisement: 12-50-13 locations in which the schools are opening are rural, as well as the fact Layout that the majority of those who will Layout benefit from the educational services AAzmerazmera BerhaneBerhane include girls, nomadic populations, AidaSaraSara JoharAlem and hard-to-reach groups. Recall

continued on page 5 Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 3 Empowering the Youth: Generating and Disseminating Wealth

Editor’s Note: Understanding Eritrea is a series of articles that highlights the development path, anchored on the preservation and utilization of soil and water resources that Eritrea is following.

Billion Temesghen educated and skilled youth, who work in a variety of capacities as On the cover page of its 17th prime movers of change. During edition, the Defense Ministry’s our visit at the Logo and Misilam magazine quoted President Isaias development projects we saw Afwerki as saying: “There are two firsthand young college graduates things we need to achieve through and trainees on site engage in hard work … we need to create activities that contribute to the wealth and distribute wealth.” social transformation of Eritrea. The development pilot projects at Logo and Misilam dams, like other For example, the Logo Dam plant development projects nationwide, has five metal workshops that cater are good illustrations of how to the construction and assembly of intend to create and water tanks nationwide. Each unit, distribute wealth. Definitely composed of hundreds of welders, covers specific geographic areas, Many dams have been built over allowing the four units to deploy the years in the country to serve their workforce to different appreciation for their enthusiasm project and has 556 students and the awareness raising campaigns, and endurance working in an open college graduates, equipped with we have seen college graduates air under a scorching sun. the latest technologies. travel village to village to teach the communities public health and Mr. Semere is currently Logo and Misilam projects have modern farming. We have also supervising the training and become youth training centers and seen how the youth made solar performance of 180 students who hubs for social transformation. As farms and generate power to be joined his unit not long ago. So far his we’ve seen in previous editions supplied to villages. At Misilam unit has overseen the development of #Understanding Eritrea, dairy project we met veterinarians of 600 young Eritreans who engage we have witnessed the youth and animal science graduates in metal works. They all learned working hard everywhere we working hard to multiply imported while being extremely productive. went. At the community farms, cattle breed by thousands so that In fact, works related to water we met agronomists who assist they could be given to farmers all distribution operated by the youth farmers in making the transition over the country and boost milk production.

Overall, in the journey we made to “understand Eritrea,” we have as hubs of social transformation. locations simultaneously. come to realize that after building As we have seen in previous dams and collecting water, one editions of #UnderstandingEritrea, Mr. Semere Tareke, the of the grand goals of the Eritrean the construction of Logo and supervisor whom we met in Metal government is empowering the Misilam dams have resulted in Workshop 1, said the unit was youth by creating opportunities the empowerment of communities formed in March 2015 with 80 for learning and developing who live in villages around the students from theth 27 round in skills to assist the nation reach its dams. The communities now have Sawa, who were given intensive development goals that put the access to potable water and have vocational training in metal works. peoples’ interest first. Indeed, there made a transition from traditional Since then the unit has been is no question that by arming the to modern farming and animal recruiting every year graduates youth with the needed knowledge breeding, all of which have raised from the vocational school in and skills Eritrea is poised to their standards of living. Sawa. They leave their trademark from Metal Workshop 1 have been from traditional to small-scale multiply its potential to generate in the work they have done even deployed from Adi Halo to Adi commercial farming, and as part of and evenly disseminate wealth. “Creating and distributing far from Logo Dam area where Ke, Gherghera, Laguyen, Aitiabir wealth” is the mantra guiding the they began as amateurs before they and others. In Asmara, their water future development path of the became skilled professionals who tanks can be seen at the hills in nation. But who generates the contribute immensely to Eritrea’s Arbaete Asmara and Mai Chehot. wealth? The youth, of course! The national development. The youth from Metal Workshop 1 Government of Eritrea’s scheme have also worked at infrastructures of national development heavily Mr. Semere told us that some for water distribution systems in relies on its human resource, and members of the unit who had been the Northern and Southern Red the overwhelming majority of the his students at the project have Sea regions, including Gahtelay, Eritrean population is made up become trainers while others have Massawa, Assab, Wia and Laite. of the youth. With access to free become experts in making and education from primary school installing water tanks in other parts The workshop at Metal Workshop all the way to higher education, of the country. He says that he is 5 is slightly different from the other it is not difficult to imagine the gratified to see his former students four as it includes wood, plastic prospects of Eritrea as a nation leave the unit after having learned and designing works. It is the most that is endowed with a lot of important skills. He expressed his recent establishment in the Logo Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 4

Customary laws of Eritrea

Simon Weldemichael conflicts. The law is supposed to and enforcement of decisions is aim at bringing about “the greatest secured through social pressure. The The customary laws of Eritrea are happiness to the greatest number.” community courts emphasize on products of centuries-old customs, It should also conform to the local reconciliation and restoring social rituals, norms, religious beliefs needs and feelings of the society. The harmony. Arbitrators or judges are and cultural values. Successive customary laws of Eritrea deliver democratically elected from within colonizers sought to impose alien justice without delay. They bring the community by the community judicial institutions upon the Eritrean offenders to face the consequences of on the basis of equality. The goal of society to no avail. The traditional their actions quickly, using effective, community court is not just to punish society of Eritrea has historically local solutions. the perpetrator, but to compensate had its own legal institutions for the victim and to reintegrate both regulating behavior and resolving Access to justice is essential the victim and offender back into problems. for human development, poverty the community. The type of justice reduction and conflict prevention. promoted by community courts The customary laws of Eritrea Some of them were codified before wisdom considers the family as the The community courts of is by far the most appropriate are products of historical, socio- the 14th century. Carlo Conti Rossini, foundation for freedom, security, economic and cultural features of Pollera and other Italian field and unity within the society. Family the Eritrean society. They have researchers, who studied the Eritrean life is seen as an initiation into life society, were amazed by the results of in society. There is no development their studies. They came to know that without the security of the family and long before the coming of the Italians, no security without the development many customary laws of Eritrea of the family. Both development and had been codified. They include security also depend on respect for the customary laws of Adghina human rights and the rule of law. Tegeleba, Loggo Chiwa, Adkeme Milgae, Afar, Engn’a, Sirat Atsmi The customary laws of Eritrea Harmaz, Enda Figray, and Waela were amended at different times in a Seleste Tsimaro. Other codifications way that met the requirements of the of customary laws, which continued local people and conditions. They are Eritrea, operating according to option for people living in a close- after Italian colonization of Eritrea, the intellectual and moral property of the proclamation of 2003, have knit community whose members include the codes of Waela Shewate the Eritrean society. The Ministry of broadened access to the institutions must rely on continued social and Anseba, Habselus, Ghebrekristos, Justice of Eritrea has examined the of justice. Access to justice is economic cooperation with their contributed immensely toward Deqiteshim, Lamzan Sehartin, neighbors. strengthening the social bond within Weqertin Damban, Karneshim and the society and served as essential Dembezan, Sahil, Bilen, and Maria. The community courts operate tools in settling disputes and ensuring with limited infrastructure and peace and order. The traditional The customary laws of Eritrea, resources and provides a very cost legal institutions of Eritrea are which are basic to the life and custom effective means of justice by which democratic institutions. Muluberhan of the Eritrean society, regulate the people can voluntarily choose to Berhe, in his book, Customary welfare and other aspects of human settle their disputes, thereby reducing versus Modem Laws of Eritrea life, from the moment a child is court congestion. It reflects local and Intangible Cultural Heritage, conceived in her mother’s womb. social norms and is closely linked wrote “The contemporary Eritrean to the local community. Community people’s respect to the rule of law is There is a strong link between merits of the customary laws and defined as “The ability of people to members often have a sense of an attribute to the deeply cherished, the rule of law, peace and security, tried to incorporate their sprit in the seek and obtain a remedy through ownership towards their respective loved and adhered customary laws.” human rights and development. The civil and criminal codes published in formal or informal institutions of system. Eritrean society has its own tradition 2015. In the introduction of the legal The customary laws of Eritrea with administrative and judicial document, Minister of Justice Fawzia have been preserved and passed system that considers the family as Hashim states: “From the inception down from generation to generation the fundamental basis of the society. of the drafting process up to this final orally until they were documented. The traditional and indigenous form, relentless and continued efforts have been made to make it consistent with the values and principles of the Eritrean society.”

The Ministry of Justice of Eritrea announced its acknowledgement justice, and in conformity with In conclusion, customary laws of the merits of traditional means human rights standards.” Access are central to the very identity of of dispensing justice by issuing a to justice exists when people can the Eritrean people, defining rights, proclamation in 2003. As a result, in pursue their goals and address their obligations and responsibilities November 2003 community courts law-related problems in ways that are of members relating to important were set up and since then have been consistent with fair legal standards aspects of their lives. Maintaining operating throughout the country. and processes. customary laws is crucial for the Community courts are often more continuing vitality of the intellectual, accessible than the established courts In dealing with disputes the cultural and moral life of the Eritrean for the poor and disadvantaged community courts often look for society. The customary laws of people and have the potential to give mechanisms to solve the disputes Eritrea should continue to be the quick, and socially relevant remedies. through reconciliation. Decisions are fundamental legal basis or source of They play a vital role in settling based on a process of consultation law for modern Eritrea. Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 5 Education: a commitment to rights, social justice . . .

right above us. They searched and searched continued from page 8 “i can’t deny thef butact couldn’tt findhat them. iFinally’m they . let. .us off the hook in the evening hours. That mo- Asmara we heard a shooting and he drove ment, being surrounded by soldiers with me to the university where I used to stay. their guns aiming at you, was really terri- That night I had already arranged an extra fying. It was a bit dangerous for me and evening class for the students and not more I went to Sidamo, an Ethiopian province. than 15 students were waiting for me in the But I made my way back to Eritrea after university while some of them had already a couple of months. That’s what I learned left. They waited for me there till I arrived. from Eritreans--resilience. In 1976, we I couldn’t send them back to their homes started classes again. as the shooting was overwhelming the city. So, I took out a mat and we all stayed the What a story! Any final thoughts? night in one classroom sleeping on the mat, not knowing the worst was yet to come in To have lived my life in Eritrea is simply the morning. The next morning we woke up a gift that God himself gave to me. I can’t the country’s mother tongue policy, which ontinued from page 2 and the shooting had already ceased. How- deny the fact that I’m Scottish but I can’t c sees education made available in the various ever, it started again in a frightening way deny that I am Eritrean, too. I spent many that around the world, rural areas and remote, languages used across Eritrea. Accordingly, and we could feel that the shooting was years here. Spending my youth and my lat- hard-to-reach populations frequently have this will help to allow the local communities getting closer and closer. Suddenly, some er ages with warm people, Eritreans at that, worse social-, economic-, education-, and to preserve their rich heritage and culture, and soldiers from the enemy [Ethiopian army] is really a big deal for me. Looking at those health-related outcomes and are frequently also means more equitable access for all ethno- came to the classroom with their weapons who once were your students as successful underserved, overlooked, and undervalued. linguistic groups and improved enrolment, and all and ordered us to bring the shabia adults and many of them with families also Unfortunately, they remain almost forgotten retention, and comprehension. Ultimately, soldiers who were attacking from the roof brings me satisfaction. Finally, I am glad I and basically an afterthought. these schools and policies will help to ensure of the university with a sniper or we take brought joy by taking my life journey with that more children, irrespective of background, the fall. I then noticed that the university such kind and courteous people. It indeed Moreover, social justice is also reflected in distinction, or status, have the opportunity to was surrounded by soldiers. We didn’t even is making me sad to leave now after spend- the fact that the recently opened schools will enroll in education, become literate, maximize know that there were soldiers with snipers ing those beautiful years with the people. offer lessons to students in accordance with their potential, and transform their lives.

LOCAL NEWS Potable water project in Keren The first phase of the potable water project in of the Defense Forces and the public includes commitment and participation of the members supply problem of the residents. Keren city worth of over 14 million Nakfa has installation of 22 km water pipes, four reservoirs of the Eritrean Defense Forces. been finalized. that could hold 3 thousand barrels of water as Commending the contribution and well as water pumps. Mr. Abraha Girmatsion, head of Water Supply participation the residents demonstrated in the The project that is being conducted Indicating that the project that started in 2020 in Keren, said that with the growing population implementation of the project, Mr. Shishay in cooperation with the Anseba region is being conducted with internal capacity, Mr. of Keren city the project will have significant called for judicious use of the project for its administration, Project Adi-Halo, members Shishay Tesfay expressed appreciation for the contribution in alleviating the potable water sustainability.

Ambassador Funeral service of Ambassador Gebriel Fassil passes away Araya Desta conducted

Veteran fighter Ambassador Gebriel Fassil Funeral service of Ambassador Araya Desta, passed away on 4 June at the age of 82 due to Eritrea’s Permanent Representative at the African illness. Union, was conducted on May 6 at the Asmara Martyrs Cemetery in the presence of Government Veteran fighter Ambassador Gebriel who joined and PFDJ officials. the EPLF in 1975 served with dedication and commitment in various departments of the EPLF Ambassador Araya Desta who joined the EPLF during the armed struggle for Independence. in 1981 started his career from 1986 until 1991 as representative of the Eritrean Relief Association After Independence, Ambassador Gebriel (ERA) in Ottawa, Canada. served his country and people from 1991 to 2002 as head of various departments of the Ministry After Independence, Ambassador Araya served of Finance, from 2002 to 2005 as Eritrea’s his country and people with utmost dedication as an Ambassador to India and Thailand and later as Ambassador in various countries including Sweden, Manager of the National Bank. China, and the United Nations.

Ambassador Gebriel Fassil is survived by his wife and four children. The funeral service Ambassador Araya Desta is survived by his wife and five children. of Ambassador Gebriel was conducted on 5 June in , . Expressing deep sorrow on the passing of Ambassador Araya Desta, the Ministry of Expressing deep sorrow on the passing of Ambassador Gebriel Fassil, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses condolences to families and friends. Ambassador Araya Desta Foreign Affairs expresses condolences to families and friends. passed away on 27 May at the age of 76. Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 6

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Bisha Mining Share Company is inviting applicants for the following position for Bisha site HR Documentation project. • Responsible for all employee documentation record keeping including storage filing Position: Human Resources Officer and retrieving as required Department: Employee Services • Processing employees’ overtime, above roster, acting appointment, per diems etc in Section: Human Resources line with entitlement and relevant policies and procedures. Number Required: Two (02) • Ensure that all required engagement, promotions or termination documentation is Primary Purpose processed in time to be captured on payroll system before payrun periods. • Job responsibilities cover a wide range of areas including being actively involved in • Prepare and process employee medical expense claim petty cash payment paperwork employee recruitment, managing the hiring and onboarding process, assisting with and resolving inline with employee’s contract of employment and the relevant SOP. employee queries related to their employment, managing employee performance, terminations, Performance Management transfers and promotions and the enforcement of Human Resources policies and procedures. • Administers the employee appraisal and performance programs. Main Functions • Conduct analysis of employee performance including identification of problem areas • Administration and following up on actions taken by line managers to deal with poor performance. • Recruitment Terminations • HR Documentation • Provide guidance to line managers in terms of employment termination policies • Performance Management and procedures and ensure that notice periods and temrinations are is inline with employee’s • Terminations employment contracts and legislation. • Reporting • Ensure that termination forms are signed off by all respective signatories.and Preparing • Promotions/Transfers severance pay’s according Eritrean Labor law. • Others • Ensure Exit interviews are conducted and signed off by all respective signatories and TASK DESCRIPTION EXPANDED TO CORE PERFORMANCE AREAS ensure that exit clearance forms are completed and signed off. Administration • Ensure that exit medical checkups are done before an employee leaves company • Maintaining physical and digital personnel records like employment contracts, premises for the final time. emergency contacts. • Prepare certificate of service at BMSC after an employee has been terminated – review • Answering or solving HR-related questions or issues within the organization. employee personal file for the full employment history, prepare certificate and circulate for • Ensure that all HR processes are followed in line with Company policies and signoff and then issue to the individual. procedures. Reporting • Follows up on the daily attendance records for responsible departments and resolves • Preparing HR daily and weekly reports on head count, transfers, promotions, reason for absenteeism, late in, late out, etc. terminations and disciplinary actions. • Maintaining physical and digital personnel records like employment contracts, • Follow up the recruitment tracker and update line managers with recruitment progress emergency contacts. on a weekly basis. Recruitment • Preparing weekly catch up meetings with all departments according to the predetermined • Ensure that the recruitment procedure (HR-SOP-001) is followed. Review Job schedule and capture the outcomes/minutes of meeting report in the system. Descriptions received from departments for accuracy, consistency and correct spelling and • Updating and follow up of employees case tracker age limitation tracker and court case grammer. Review Labour Requisitions received for accuracy including position titles, department tracker. titles, and complete the actual and budget values. Initiate Labour Requisition requests from Promotions and Transfers departments for budgeted vacant positions. • Ensure that promotions and transfers are processed as per company procedure and • Preparing applicants matrix based on CV’s received and submit to the respective make sure approved positions are available for promotion and transfer. department HOD for review and shortlist. Assist departments with shortlisting of candidates in • Ensuring the required documents for promotions such as training records, disciplinary liaison with the respective HOD. records and due process of competency is in place as required for the higher level position. • Arrange and conduct interview sessions and the facilitate the final selection process. Others Arrange transportation, site entry and induction for applicants coming to site for interviews. • On an annual basis prepare the employee pay progression calculations including Follow up the recruitment process and update the recruitment tracker on a daily basis. Contact reviewing the calculation sheet for correctness, review outliers and sorting out any discrepencies, applicants via phone to inform them of the arrangements and requirements from their side. printing of letters, issuing of letters, briefings to workforce as required and assisting with Assist with queries, questions and issues related to applicant’s site visits. employee complaints, errors and process corrections. • Follow-up the pre-employment process including new employee medicals and police • Preparing supporting letters as requested by employees based on the type of their clearance and prepare necessary letters where required. request and process in line with the relevant company policy and procedure. • Responsible for preparing employment contracts and obtaining all required • Provide training/mentoring to new HR Officers (Assistant HR Officers) to become signatures. familiar with BMSC’s processes and procedures. • Prepare for new employee’s arrival on site including transportation, site entry, • Supervise and coordinate the activities of subordinates (Assistant HR Officers) (where induction, orientation. applicable). • Prepare for and arrange job grading committee meetings to grade positions in line with • Assist with HR projects including collecting of employee data and capturing of the Job Grading procedure. employee information required for projects. • Reviewing and summarizing amended job descriptions for regrading upon HODs • Manage time and tasks effectively to ensure all responsible activities continue accurately requests. and timely. • Review HR standard operating procedures on an annual basis and identify errors/ Unique requirements / other information omissions/improvements. Draft updates to SOPs for review by HR line management. • Ability to work in a high pressure, fast paced, multicultural environment which • Provides advice to senior management, managers and supervisors about appropriate demands various skills and experiences to provide effective human resources services to the recruitment processes, disciplinary or other corrective techniques when required in response to organization. conduct or performance problems. Qualifications: • Provide management advisory services in terms of coaching, counseling, recognizing • Essential - Diploma (Human Resources, Management, Pschycology, Personnel top performers, and taking appropriate action on poor performers. . management). • Conduct, coordinate and faciliate communications to all staff on HR or Company • Desireable - Degree (Human Resourecs, Management, Pschycology, Personnel matters, including the preparation of reports for Managers and giving presentations, management management). briefs, general briefings to the workforce as required from time to time. • Attend various meetings on different levels of management as required and related to HR issues or matters including meetings with Crews, Supervisors, Superintendents, Managers continued on page 7 and Senior Managers. Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 7

• ontinued from page 6 Place of Work: Bisha. c • Salary: As per Company salary scale. • Desireable – Driving License. • Type of Contract: Indefinite Knowledge and Experience: • Minimum Three year’s experience in employee administration including hiring, Additional requirement for Nationals: looking after and terminating employees. • Having fulfilled his/her National Service obligation and provide evidence of • Minimum two year’s experience in using Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook in a release paper from the Ministry of Defense. business environment. • Present clearance paper from current/last employer. Technical Skills • Testimonial documents to be attached (CV, work experience credentials, a copy • Fluent in both English and any other local language and computer Literacy (MS Office of your National Identity Card etc.). – Intermediate). • Only shortlisted applicants will be considered as potential candidates for an • Familiar with HR Systems or Processes, attention to detail and business Communication interview. skills. • Application documents will not be returned to sender. • Knowledge of current labour legislation, administrative skill, report writing and • All applications should be sent through the post office. analytical skills. • Deadline for application: 10 days from the day of publication in the Newspaper. Behavioural Skills Address: Please mail your applications to:- • Demonstrate excellent people management and interpersonal skills, as well asthe Bisha Mining Share Company, ability to deal with different types of people at various levels. P. O. Box 4276 Asmara, Eritrea • Friendly, empathetic and open-minded, with high standards of personal and Note to non -Eritrean applicants: professional integrity, fairness and an unbiased approach. Please send a copy of your application to Aliens Employment permits Affairs, General Information and other requirements: P. O. Box 7940 Asmara, Eritrea. Vacancy Announcement

Total Eritrea Sh.Co., invites qualified candidates to apply for the following job vacancy: Services or a Diploma on similar fields with at least 5 years experience. • Ensure full compliance with the group’s Health and Safety policies and standards as 1- Position: Accounting Manager related to his/her division. Education: Must have at least a first Degree in Accounting, Business, Commerce • Encourage a proactive safety culture within the organization or Economics from a recognized University. A member of a recognized Professional • Prepare fuel permit request to be approved by the concerned authorities Accountancy Body is an advantage. • Prepare fuel sales orders in line with the granted volume permit from the concerned Experience: Must have at least 5 years post qualification experience in Accountancy authorities and lubricant orders according to the customer need. practice • Ensure all orders for fuels and lubricants are properly processed and cleared for Major Duties loading in good time. • Ensure full compliance with the group’s HSEQ policies and standards as applied to • Ensure that Service Stations do not run out of stocks and that they maintain the his division recommended stocks in liaison with the sales reps. • Check and validate the efficient financial and accounting recording of the company’s • Advise the Commercial Manager on all pending orders due to Depot stock run outs or operations. any other short comings apart from logistical issues. • Perform and analyze booking of accounting transactions, master data maintenance, • Prepare sales order of Company Owned Company Operated stations for fuels and fixed assets and project accounting transactions, calculations, workings and account lubricants on daily basis. analysis. • Ensure that the Order procedures are adhered to. • Responsible for the accurate and timely preparation of the following monthly • Prepare price list for Fuels whenever changes are declared by the Government. management reports • Ensure that all the diversion of products are properly recaptured and processed. • Support the Budget, Reporting and Control Accountant in the preparation of the • Monitor Stations, Car washes, Bonjour Cafes and Shops rents on timely bases. following Reports • Timely prepare Debit and Credit Notes. 1. Management report for review and analysis of the management team. • Preparing Customer Performance report monthly for; management, concerned 2. Preparation for Working Capital Requirement authorities and the Industrial Coordinator reference. 3. Operating and Financial pre-budget and budget • Make sure that all Customers receive the quality service it deserves at front office • Responsible for the accurate and timely preparation of audit schedules, tax schedules • Attend to and address customer queries, complaints or dissatisfaction related to the (income tax declaration and payment) and Pre- Audited financial statements for both Local supply of products. and Paris Head office use. • Oversee internal and external communication activities. • To ensure and check that all priority accounting controls are carried out monthly as • Plan and manage the design, content, and production of all marketing materials per procedure according with the company standards. • Ensure all work documentation and work processes are updated and meet with Internal • Create communication and marketing strategies for new products, launches events, Control on timely basis. and promotions. • Responsible for the effective and efficient use of SAP in Financial Information. • Implement communication & digital plans. • Responsible for monthly and annual closing of the books of accounts. • Perform any other assignment as may be directed by the supervisor. • Will be trainer and coach of SAP to new and existing staff of the accounting section. Other Requirements • Ensure that Total Eritrea’s accounting policies are updated regularly • Release or exemption from National Service • Ensure that all reports of Financial Information and fixed asset are correct on a timely • Present Clearance Paper from current/last employer basis. • Good communication and interpersonal skills, good team work spirit • Other assignment given by the Supervisor. • Mastery of Microsoft Office applications 2- Position: Back Office Officer • Knowledge of SAP system Job Dimension: The position assists the Commercial Manager in providing office based • Healthy and physically fit (must be able to pass medical tests) services by implementing administrative systems, documents controls, and policies, and Salary and other Terms: As per the Company’s scale and employment policy monitoring sales reconciliation with Local and International customers. In addition, the Interested candidates who meet the above requirement are invited to submit their resumes position holder is responsible for collection, analyzing and manage stakeholders complaints and supporting documents to the following address in not later than 10 working days from related to the Company’s business and activities. the date of publication of this announcement on the Hadas Eritrea and/or Eritrean Profile The position also provides Admin support for daily sales entries on SAP, and involves newspapers, whichever is later. accounting and reconciliation with local and International customers as and when needed. The Human Resources and Admin Manager This will require daily tracking for invoices, payments, coordination with location managers Total Eritrea Sh.Co., and finance to resolve any reconciliation open/ overdue items. P.O. Box 871 Education: A university Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing or Martyr’s Avenue #213 related fields with at least two years experience in Sales, Communication and/or Customer Asmara, Eritrea Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, 9 June, 2021 Vol 28. No.15 8

Mikal Tesfay

“She gave me the strength and courage to get where I am now.” “She is not a teacher but more like a friend to all of us.” “She“i is a cstrongan’t woman but d yet sympathetic.”eny “Shethe has alwaysf beenact by our side,t especiallyhat during i the ’mhard times.” a “She lsois an eritrean” not only a teacher but a demonstrative mother”. “She jokes around but yet leaves you with essential tips for life.” These are some of the words of her former students and colleagues at the University of Asmara. I bet you may be wondering who this person is. Please read on.

I would like to thank you for a difficult duty for me. The- rea about the happy moments that port when the first agreeing to do this interview. son for that was I was a student you remember during your stay flight attendants Sister Thomas, please introduce myself when I was giving les- in Eritrea? started their job yourself? sons and teaching the students. in 1993. Another But I especially characterize my Inauguration of Asmara Uni- memorable mo- My name is Sister Thomas stay here by the resilience that I versity is one of the happiest mo- ment was my time Johnston. I was born in 1938 found in the people. They passed ments during my stay here. The with the people of from a working class family. I through difficult times to enjoy other was the first graduation cer- Afabet. You have have a lot of Irish blood in my their happy lives now. I emony, which was held in no idea how beau- veins as my mother’s father and was in Eritrea 1969. However, tiful my time with mother were of Irish origin. That when the nothing them was. way I am catholic. Being a nun peo- can was never on my mind as I had b e So tell us about the dream of becoming a musi- your stay in Afa- cian. But God has his own plans. bet? I became a nun after my experi- Early 1990s in Halimentel ence of being a music teacher at I stayed in Afabet from 1996 made; so, of course, there were the age of 20. Six years later I set till 2012. I really had a good time a lot of sad moments that broke my foot in Eritrea which current- in Afabet. The people have got a my heart and other moments that ly is the country I’m living in. lot of space in my heart indeed. I shocked me. To tell you some, was so happy among them feel- back then my students used to love How do you characterize your ing like I’m one of them. They school and studying. Their ambi- stay in Eritrea? p l e are simple people, in a good way. tion for education and knowledge were com- They are kind and lovable. The was really incredible, motivating I came when I was 26 years old suffering. pared to the unique thing that you can get in me to teach them more and more. in 1964. Now I’m leaving at the I’m a living proof. moments when Er- every Eritrean is there with them They attended classes regularly age of 82 in 2021. I have lived all I witnessed the good and bad itrean fighters made their way to too. I’m Christian while major- and were always busy studying this time, at the time of struggle times with the people. This is Asmara. On May 24, 1991 I was ity of the people there are Mus- despite the war and chaos that and hardships, along with the the special characteristic of the literally rejoicing and dancing lim. They warmly allowed me to was going around. There was this people. I literally tried to live the people and I got the opportunity with the people as if it was the in- blend just like any Eritrean and specific moment that really broke life of the Eritrean people. So I to grab that from them. dependence of my own country. made me part of their society. I my heart and that was when a stu- can’t deny the fact that I’m also That day I felt the freedom and consider this a national treasure dent showed up in my office after Eritrean. I started my career at We all go through good and was too happy to handle it. Then that you can never find in any class alone. They would come Asmara University which was bad times in our lives. Tell us I made my presence in the air- other country. That alone was and whisper, “Sister, I’m leaving good enough to make me fall for my bike here in the university” or their charms and warmth. Let me they would go like this, “Sister, tell you this. I once wore a scarf you might not see me tomorrow.” which they call “shash”. That Those moments were very hard to specific shash (white with black endure. You couldn’t hold back stripes) is only worn by men. your sadness to see such kids The women there saw me wear- leaving their studies and going to ing that specific shash and were the front for they were too des- surprised and told me that it is perate to bring freedom and live supposed to be for men. I liked a peaceful life. At moments like it and tried to explain my self by that you really can’t be neutral telling them that I’m also a man because you are already attached because I’m a nun. They simply to them. laughed and allowed me to have it my way because they noticed Those must be some of the that I loved that specific scarf. moments that made you sad. The more I started to spend time How about the shocking part? with the people the more I fell in love with them. It was on February 1, 1975. The previous day we went to Massa- You must have enjoyed your wa as we had some work to do time there. Any moments that there. It was a one-night trip. We saddened you? came back with one of the Las- salle brothers. As we entered I have been in Eritrea for the past 56 years. This means I was Sister Thomas with her former students and colleagues there when their history was continued on page 5