Vol. 23 No. 20 Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

Central Region: Independence Day Schools’ week

The Central Region schools’ will be celebrated under the theme week, marking the Silver Jubilee “Quarter Century of Resilience and Independence Day celebrations Development”. commenced, on 05 May at the Irafaile School here in . The Chairman of the Holidays Coordinating Committee, Mr. The Minister of Education, Mr. Asmerom Tsegabrhan indicated Semere Russom and the Governor that the preparations include of the Central region, Maj. carnivals showcasing the history Gen. Romodan Aweliai opened of perseverance, commitment and the pictorial exhibition which the culture of work of the Eritrean highlighted the event. Present at people. All the sub-zones as well the event, where 283 schools from as public and private institutions in the Central region are taking part, the region are also finalizing their were officials from the Ministry of preparation to celebrate the day. Education and the Central Region as well as parents and students. He also said that the passion to enthusiastically celebrate the In related news, the Central Silver Jubilee Independence Day UNDP Marks its 50th Anniversary in Habero region has finalized preparations to attests to the love and honor the The United Nations Development Ghebreselassie, Mr. Ali Mahmud, paid a visit to Hamelmalo and colorfully celebrate the Silver Jubilee Eritrean people have towards their Program (UNDP) has marked 50th Governor of the Anseba region, Habero district areas, Keren sub Independence Day anniversary that independence. anniversary of its establishment in Mrs. Christin Umutoni, Resident/ zone, to observe the concerted Habero sub zone, Anseba region. Humanitarian Coordinator and development programs that have UNDP Representative in as been undertaken in the vicinity. According to reports, the Minister well as a number of Ambassadors of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine and Diplomats were present during Likewise, the participants also Berhe, the Minister of Land Water the observance. observed and were briefed on the and Environment, Mr. Tesfai Participants of the event also Youth Vocational Training Center in Keren, the ‘Musha’ Dam in Hamelmalo sub zone, which was constructed in 2013 as well as The Fiza irrigation farm functioning N.R.S. REGION commendable with the help of solar panels. achievements IN THE health SECTOR Sudanese ‘Albeser’ Group of Ophthalmologists 60 health facilities ranging from a referral hospital to health centers Conduct Eye Surgery in Asmara and stations are actively rendering services in the The Sudanese ‘Albeser’ Group been working with the Sudanese physicians. It is to be recalled that region. of Ophthalmologists has conducted doctors pointed out that such the Sudanese ‘Albeser’ Group of eye surgery for 400 patients in cooperation plays a pivotal role Ophthalmologists have conducted Moreover, Dr. Yohannes Asmara for four consecutive days in creating a solid grounds for similar surgeries in said that the scope of May 3 to 6. Eritrean doctors to obtain and share Hospital from 9 to 19 May, this vaccination campaigns experiences from the Sudanese year. that were previously Head of the group, Dr. Isam limited to 10% are now Segid, told ERINA that in at 90%, meaning that addition to the eye surgeries they communicable diseases conducted at Berhan-Aini Referral Dr. Yohannes Tekeste, the head have dropped significantly in the Hospital, they have also conducted of the Ministry of Health branch region. The prevalence of malaria ophthalmologic diagnosis for over in the Northern Red Sea region has also decreased by 90% when 5000 shortsighted people and disclosed that commendable compared to the previous years, offered several medicines and achievements have been recorded the doctor added. eyeglasses for further treatments. in the overall health situation in the region thanks to the even There are 11 clinics, 26 health Dr. Abubeda Muktar expressed distribution of the health services stations, 11 community hospitals, satisfaction for the conducive and the investments made in one Referral Hospital and two atmosphere created for them at the developing human resource. maternity and child health care hospital to successfully accomplish units in the Northern Red Sea their tasks at a given time. The doctor indicated that about region. Dr. Eyob Frezghy, who has quarter century of ResiliEnce and Development Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 2

“Happy Birthday UNDP… Happy Birthday to Partnership” Mela Ghebremedhin nationwide including 167 in the Anseba region. Trainings as well Above are the words of Ms. as equipping the workshops and Christine N. Umutoni, Resident/ centers have revitalized these youth Humanitarian Coordinator and vocational training centers without UNDP Representative in Eritrea, failing to recall the upcoming surprising the crowd by singing project in micro-credit schemes as happy birthday to UNDP’s 50th a starting kit to young professionals Anniversary during her speech in to enable them to start their own Keren. Indeed, the UN agency’s business. anniversary was celebrated in Eritrea in a very unique way. As the anniversary of UNDP goes “Instead of celebrating it in two in line with the upcoming National hours confined at Asmara Palace Greening Day, this field visit surely with some wine, isn’t it better to comes at an important juncture. celebrate it for two days by going Thus, the field visit continued by on a field trip?” she expressed. With including a stopover to one of the this idea in mind, UNDP Eritrea project named ‘Climate Change organized a field trip to the Anseba Adaptation’. After a short drive Region on May 5 and 6, 2016. outside of Keren in Hamelmalo sub-zone, while visitors walked On this occasion, members of up a little hill, wondering what’s the diplomatic corps from China, hidden behind, a whole community Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, was waiting on them to greet them the United States, the European in partnership with the National I am working at various events provide training to youth in various and proudly show their newly built Union, Government officials and Union of Eritrean Youth and such as wedding ceremonies, I get sectors for a period of one year micro-dam. The Musha micro-dam, representatives, UN agencies Students (NUEYS). This project 6000 Nkf which allows me to rent a preparing them for a job and tackle built in 2013, has changed the lives as well as the European Union allows the youth, particularly the video camera for the price of 3000 unemployment, subsequently of its inhabitants. The community embarked on this two-day field disadvantaged, to get the chance Nkf and with the rest I cover my bringing down migration to the of farmers of the Musha village, expedition to the Anseba Region to to acquire skills and get employed family’s expenses… As a result, minimal. organized in a committee, are some witness some of UNDP’s ongoing through one of the 21 centers in the I have a sustainable income and I of the beneficiaries of this project projects in partnership with national region. From metal to woodwork, managed to get a bigger house for As guests walked around the site, piloted by UNDP in partnership civil society groups, as well as the passing by pottery, audiovisual and my wife and children…” a group of young students were with the Ministry of Agriculture. Ministry of National Development, electronics, youth from the age of actively working on finishing the Ministry of Agriculture without 16 are trained for a period of one- After a round of applause, a last details of their latest artwork. As part of the food security failing to recall the Ministry of school year. During the visit to group of youngsters exhibited their A young woman was standing by and sustainable livelihood Land Water and Environment. the NUEYS metal and woodwork work in pottery. One of them, an their side explaining to them the program implemented in 2015, training center located in Keren, ill-impaired young man explained techniques, Mrs. Haddas Rebibu, the construction of the micro-dam After two hours drive, guests presentations and a tour on site how it gave him a sense of life by from Keren. A mother and wife, in and the installation of a solar water arrived in Keren, just the time gave a glimpse to the successful getting such training and sustains her thirties, who also took part in pump allowed villagers to irrigate to grab a tea and quickly rushing implementation of the project. himself. Learning the skills allows the training program in 2008, was the land and subsequently grow to one of UNDP funded projects Young women and men timidly him to be part of the society as then recruited as an employee and foodstuff and have sustainable called “youth employment skills” addressed the crowd about their every other citizen without being trainer at the NUEYS vocational agricultural activities. As part work and gratitude to the support marginalized due to his hearing training site. As one of the few of the program, members of the given. One of them, Teklom disability. women involved in this sector of community are provided with Ghebrehiwet, a young man and activity, she proudly explained, a livelihood support systems father of three explained how, The visit continued in the metal “women, in our region especially, consisting of: household receiving through the program, he managed and woodwork workshops, where have to understand that we can work one dairy cow, 25 chicken and 2 to maintain his living conditions: impressive finished products were in any field of activities without beehives. Published Every showcased to visitors, passing any gender distinction. I would Saturday & Wednesday “Since my childhood, I was by the wardrobe, the table to like my other female counterparts This integrated project has passionate about visual arts and the school desk. In fact, the to understand the importance of already impacted the lives of the especially video camera shooting. vocational training does not solely work and of not being passive and residents to not only this village but Acting Editor I used to work for 100 or 200 Nkf, benefit those youth but the entire dependent financially. This is the to three others. In fact, Mr. Abrar Amanuel Mesfun even some people would just pay community. In other words, some reason why I chose to work; to Gidari, member of the farmers’ me by simply saying ‘yeqenyelna’ of the materials produced in the provide for my family.” community, explained that before – thank you. I always had the center will be used by the Ministry the construction of the micro-dam, P.O.Box: 247 ambition to be a professional of Education for its schools or the The pilot project started in 2007 they had to walk for more than Tel: 11-41-14 cameraman. When I heard about Ministry of Health for its health in Keren and quickly extended three hours without the guarantee Fax: 12-77-49 the course organized by the facilities as well as individuals to the Gash Barka region and of finding water upon destination. E-mail: NUEYS in camera shooting, I, who are able to buy it at low price. under the Strategic Partnership Abrar, a father of seven, stressed [email protected] without hesitating, decided to take Hence, this youth employment Cooperation Framework that not only has it eased their Advertisement: 12-50-13 part and, then from what I learned, skills program have a positive (SPCF) 2013-2016 between the burden, but now they can ensure I was able to become a qualified effect to the society as a whole. Government of Eritrea and UN in food throughout the year and can Layout professional in this field. Before I Terence Malamnlo, the youth Eritrea, the project expanded to all sell their products to the local Azmera Berhane started my own business, when I project coordinator for UNDP, regions of the country. Through its market in Keren. was working under someone else, explained that through the funding implementing partner, NUEYS, Sara Alem I was living in a little shelter and provided by the Governments of youth employment skills project now, that I rent a video camera and Japan and Norway, NUEYS can has already targeted 1046 youths Continued on page 6 EritreaEritrea Profile,Profile,Wednesday,Wednesday, MayMay 11,11, 20162016 VolVol 23. 23 No.. No. 20 20 3

Food Nutrition and Security in a span of 25 years The A to Z White Commodity…

Semir Seid 300 thousand camels out of which milk production is delivered to the No one ever denies sipping fresh Eritrean market. milk produced from a variety of domesticated mammals; cows, Dairy farming has over a century goats, sheep, camels and others length in Eritrea. It started with the when it is right away from the hot coming of the Italians. Italians had pot. Of course, milk traditionally, the culture and hobby of producing is treated as a medicine for many milk products such as cheese. It is ailments and, on other way widely known that Italian cheese round, doctors prescribe patients is the most expensive cheese all to be away from milk and dairy over the world. This dairy industry products for some time thinking began with two small companies in it can harm patients while taking Eritrea with the capacity to export their medication. But I believe the to the Middle East and East African outcome of this product outweigh nations. all the costs. I, myself, was not a The Ministry of Agriculture has big fan of milk in the first couple been the right hand of the sector of years after my birth, not soon up until the final delivery of the enough before I inquire why some production to the society through people, including myself, refuse to its centers. Communal institutions have such kind of blessing. It did were built in between 2002 not take me much time to realize and 2004 in the Anseba region, the benefits quicker than anybody specifically in places of Stur, Glass, else, but when I did, the refrigerator and Darotay, as well as Southern improve nutrition, accordingly a keeping, health and animal In the last 25 years, inconsistent started to remain milk free for some region in Korbaria, to backbone quality and quantity wise major husbandry process of animals. production of 96,043 liters liquid times. the early centers in Asmara, Keren, investigations has been taken off. In the last 25 years, 10,942 male nitrogen were recorded due to Dekemhare, Mendefera and Ghindae As a result, it is proven to have crops seeds have been distributed from machine breakdowns, 21,821 of It is commonly taken for granted with the intention to boost animal for modern animal fertilization and 20,150 imported in all regions and it was sold to various demanding that by far the vast majority of milk richness and milk productivity. to the development of grazing. institutions for animal husbandry organizations, hospitals, electricity used for commercial production and A minimum of 679 milk cows Another research was also made on process out of which 1,750 is the corporation, as well as animal and consumption is from cows. Let’s are held in these new centers the way these animals should be fed Jersey type and 19,276 (including crop laboratories. see how, in Eritrea, we perceive mentioned earlier. Entrepreneurs during dry seasons. 876 of 1991 and 1992) was the milk and milk-derivate products in and farmers in the dairy production Friesian type. Because seeds for All in all, this has to bring a our today’s development column. also describe anything done is with For a good milk production, it reproduction are not produced sense of fine outcome at the end the consultation of MOA, including needs a good provision of nutrition to locally, importing (started in of the day. The production of milk, Milk is a highly nutritious accessories needed to support animals. Up until the independence, 1993) the seeds of Holstein, Jersey according to the latest statistics of and versatile food. People enjoy their activities. Some private dairy there was not sufficient land to and Friesian kind of cows from the Ministry, from the wide range drinking milk in its natural form factories are able to be self-sufficient be cultivated for animal food. Denmark, Germany, the United of distributors shows that a total and also use it to make a wide range and started to supply local mining But ever since the independence, States and Sudan was imminent to figure of 97,851,723 liters of milk of food products, including cream, industries, hotels and export to the arrangements were made to import ensure that the production keeps were sold in the market from 1999 butter, yogurt, cheese, ice cream, Middle East and African Markets. seeds from abroad and introduce going, and is put directly into until the year 2014. And around and other byproducts. Eritrea is According to the entrepreneur’s it in the six zones by forming 13 negative 196 degree centigrade 15 milking machines along with found to be in a strategic location record around 12,000 Holstein and sample and nursery centers to of liquid nitrogen to continue the 12 milk inspecting machines were of 2,400 meters above sea level, Friesian cows are available in the familiarize to farmers and spread conception service. disseminated in the 6 regions to suitable climate for the breeding Southern region, which is a very the seeds throughout the country. make sure the efficiency and safety of cows and other mammals. The much organized and fruitful region Though not much satisfactory, the Initially there was a machine of the project before it gets into the number of productive mammals in dairy production. Since it is a land which is being cultivated by that can only produce 5 liters of market. reaches around 1.9 million of three give and take task, the nutrition of the green nutrition for animals is in liquid nitrogen per hour, but right Moreover, the Ministry had lend species cows, 6.9 million diverse these already held animals becomes a good stage. The centers are located now a more advanced and efficient and invested 12 million Nakfa to varieties of goats and sheep, and a concern: the authority needs to in Tesseney, Akordat, Darotay, river one is recently brought that has improve the capacity of farmers and Anseba, Nakfa, Ghindae, Himbrty, the capacity to produce 15 liters increase milk production by making Tseazegha, Asmara, Adi kuala, May of liquid nitrogen per hour and over the Asmara Diary factory, and Tsebri, and Gahro. will be assembled soon. Almost a business plan was drafted and around 760 thousand American given for the association’s activity. Back in 1991, only 13,000 cows dollars are made expenditure Supporting documents and manuals were available restricted in the cities to bring this machine and other were provided by the Ministry to of Asmara, Keren, Dekemhare, laboratory equipment. The use of experts and farmers to advance Mendefera and Ghindae, providing liquid nitrogen is simply to keep the their knowledge in milk and dairy not more than 8,489 liters per seeds stilled until the next step of productions and to increase overall annum. Whereas at present time, animal husbandry. Liquid nitrogen productivity and animal breeding. around 32,305 improved and native is produced by liquefying air and The main and familiar factories milk cows are retained whom the is widely used as an inexpensive which are engaged in the provision 7,333 are milked amounting for cryogenic refrigerant. It can be of safe milk and milk byproducts to 15,619 liters per annum and are stored for long periods in special the local and external markets are found in all regions. To make the containers called Dewar flasks, the Asmara, Barka, Dekemhare, current figure doubled, a lot of named after Sir James Dewar, the Mendefera, Dubarwa, Segeneiti, endeavors are being taken to solve British scientist who first liquefied Adi Quala and the Elabered diary the mismanagement in nutrition hydrogen in 1898. factories. Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 4

Adulation of rain & free Snacks for Everyone

Billion Temesghen and it is highly regarded, because priests and devoted faith spend ignoring it? Guilty as charged, but and also they have a very kind it is believed it brings good or bad the night for holy rites. When I had no idea of its significance. and polite tone, they call almost We have had drizzling rain in luck according to your actions, the morning approaches every When I finally figured out why everyone ‘sweet child’. For this the past weeks, so I keep telling moods and attitude of the day: say community selects a group of my mother handed me 10 Nakfa reason, it is quite hard to ignore myself, I have to watch out for you choose to be mad on that day, voluntary women accordingly for while urging me to pray, I did my their invitation, as such, people mud so as to avoid messing my then you’re doomed with moody the rituals that they carry out on short “I wish” version because I sit by even for a minute and converse shoes. On the morning of atmosphere for the rest of the the streets. was busy watching the most lovely enjoy warm snacks, love and the Monday, May 9, like every other month. But this ‘Bahti’ was not ritual I have ever seen in my life. sense of belongingness even in ordinary week days, I started my just any Bhati, it was the Bahti of The group should be of four neighbourhoods that one does not day early in the morning looking the Bahties. How so? Well, it is minimum, they all have a function. Then when people started come from. forward to a typical Asmarino the annual one, so something like One resembles an ox another one donating I too extended my 10 macchiato with ginger before the rounder-up of all the Bahties takes the character of the farmer, Nakfa to the woman carrying a The weather is beautiful around going to my classes. of the year. the third one collects donations basket for donations. However, this time of the year, it is warm while sawing seeds on the streets, when I did, the woman in her and less sunny, so it is fresh Few steps outside of my house, And the second event and seemingly portraying the action forties looked at me, smiled and outside. Neighbours stay out till a group of women dancing and bigger one, is Mariam Gumbot, of a farmer planting seeds, and told me that it was too much for a late in the evening and everybody chanting, which I did not clearly Mariam standing for Saint Mary the fourth one carries a baby on donation, and went on her way. brings out some ‘sewa’ the hear what they were singing traditional beverage and food for because I had my music on, everyone to eat together. Because captured the attention of almost we recently came from celebrating every one near the bus stop. two consecutive weekends of One of them approached me and Easter and Dagmai Tinasae, there swayed long grass near my feet, is plenty of left over to share with startled me… I jumped and ‘puff’! everyone. Though I was being extremely I was profoundly touched in very careful, there I go, I am my soul from the very beginning, stepping on mud! especially when the young woman refused to take my money and I returned home air headed and when I noticed that the woman at the door I noticed that members carrying the baby had the Eritrean of my family too were rushing to flag rolled around her waist for the parade of the group of women. support, it took me some time to And I joined. “Pray, pray” insisted notice it as it was spun around my mother. “Pray for what?”, her waist and she had ‘netsela’ then she handed me 10 Nakfa and the traditional wrap scarf on top. joined the crowed. I did not quite But when I did, I kept wondering understand what was going on at how much more incredible all, and far from understanding, remarkability would there be to the whole scenario looked to me any Eritrean mother. an act of a bunch of crazy women this is what we pray for targeting clean shoes. For the Eritrean people, ‘hope’, ‘good will’ and ‘hard work’ have Flash-forward to ten minutes always been the foundation of our later: things started making, little and Gumbot meaning May. Saint her back to portray a yearning of If 10 Nakfa is big then what is tradition, history and our existence by little, perfect sense and I was Mary is one of the most celebrated a bright future for the sake of the suitable for a donation of Mariam since the begging of time. Our part of a beautiful tradition that I saints in our country, so there are most innocent and fragile ones: Gumbot? Money does not matter prayers, no matter to which would have had missed if it hadn’t several junctures in which Saint the little children. on this day, perhaps one or two celestial entity, are always wishes been for the mud incident. Mary is acclaimed, on each with a Nakfa but not more. People donate of a buoyant peaceful tomorrow different name. They dash through the streets beans and seeds of all sorts and it is for every single one, which is why Monday the 9th of May, was an reciting prayers, good wishes all accumulated in one big sack. we pray in silence together. important day in the Geez calendar. Most probably, this is a tradition and hopes for an abundant rainy It is one of the biggest because it that has been here for centuries season. Upon their arrival, they are When they finally finish touring, The humble tradition makes combines two important events: and because the Orthodox religion greeted by the people with zeal, they go back to their neighbourhood Eritrean people so special. They Bahti and Mariam Gumbot. Bahti has been here as long, if not more, they do not stop in one specific and their neighbours, mostly value simple beans and shared refers to the first day of the month somehow over time it has become place and just march around, so women, await them gathered out food more than money, they part of traditional practises. On this the people rush towards them on the streets making coffee. Upon keep thinking that even in a semi special St. Mary’s Day, we rejoice and each do a silent prayer, give arrival, they make fire and boil the Saharan country like Eritrea, and rain. Supposedly rainy season in their donations and toss flowers gathered donation of beans in one nature won’t ever forsake it. The Eritrea begins late May or early and popcorns making the ritual big pot, enough for everyone who Eritrean people adulate rain and June and finishes late August or even more striking. These women passes. For the rest of the evening, help Mother Nature by making early September. pass this rite for half a day, going they sit and invite people who pass vast good use of what little they through the streets and inviting by for a snack of steamed beans, have. They pray together for the As we have rather scarce and people to join them in their prayers coffee, tea, and ‘himbasha’ the farmers to do well, for the land irregular rainfall, every rain drop for an ample rainy season and a traditional bread. to be green for the dams to be matters, which is why we venerate plentiful harvest. Hence, I came to filled and for the wellbeing of the rain. The ritual of Mariam Gumbot understand that when the woman Eritrean mothers and women in animals. and the annual Bahti, starts swept long grass on my feet, she general are so loving, their eyes That is how much Eritreans in churches, at approximately was inviting me to join the ritual is filled with love that penetrates value Mother Nature and they do Drizzling rain over Asmara midnight when ecclesiastic men, and avoid ignoring it. Was I your soul when they look at you, it all together. Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 5

Eritrea: Returning “The Gaze”

By: Dr. Samuel Mahaffy over. Surveillance, through the use delegitimize and is an attempt to of technologies such as drones, is shape outcomes. The gaze is an The world that long turned a blind a mechanism by which dominant attempt to construct an outsider eye to the ruthless and illegitimate Western powers perpetuate and narrative that is self-serving and violation of Eritrean sovereignty globalize the gaze. This hegemonic designed to maintain dominance- now focuses its gaze on this gaze, through the lens of the drone, over. country. The gaze is perhaps worse is both domineering and deadly. than the blind eye. The blind eye There are no national boundaries What is the self-interest of to the plight of Eritrea compelled respected in the hegemonic mainstream media outlets like The its people to find the deep strength alliance’s surveillance through Guardian and a handful of power and resiliency that would win satellites and drones, of identified brokers at the United Nations who Independence against all odds. so-called troubled regions of the turn their gaze to the Country of Decades after Independence, world. Eritrea to which they long turned inaccurate representations of a blind eye? There was no gaze discourse on Eritrea that grows Eritrea from a source other than the Eritrea in western mainstream The stakes are high for those who on Eritrea in the face of vicious from the gaze.It is incumbent on reports of those who gaze in from media and certain international are the objects of the hegemonic aggression against a people seeking a discerning public to question the the outside. Visit the capital city reports, serve to shape a distorted gaze. The outcomes today of the nothing more than the right to motives of those who ‘report’ about of Asmara. Walk her streets. Sit in narrative on this country. The gaze gaze are indeed deadly. Those who self-determination. The present- Eritrea. What is the self-interest and her tea shops. Visit with her peace- has been a fundamental aspect are victims of the hegemonic gaze day gaze on Eritrea serves to value system of someone like former loving people. Look into the eyes of of legitimizing illegal and unjust may be subject to deadly drone legitimize hegemonic power-over U.N. Ambassador Hermann Cohen an Eritrean people who have gazed sanctions that harm the people of attacks and systems of torture. and delegitimize the aspirations who comes forward to outline his into the face of death, overcome Eritrea and contribute to the East Children playing in the roadways and increasingly successful efforts ‘solution’ to the tension between adversity, and moved forward with African refugee crisis. of countries like Yemen can be of the Eritrean people toward self- Eritrea and ? What are the dignity and determination toward subject to immediate death and defining a sustainable future. insidious motives of the Special defining their own future. It is important to understand destruction if they happen to fall Rapporteur–Sheila Keetharuth– the gaze on Eritrea in a historical, within the gaze of a surveillance There are great risks in allowing who does “fact-finding” about We will learn more from and socio-political, and socio-linguistic drone. the gaze on Eritrea to shape Eritrea by interviewing those who about the Eritrean people by context. The gaze on Eritrea is international and regional policy. have a clearly anti-Eritrea agenda? walking with them for a kilometer, a worthy area of research as an What does the gaze on the The gaze of clearly biased parties This gaze on the Country of Eritrea than we will ever learn from illustration of how hegemony Country of Eritrea look like? The is not a good basis for a reasoned is often an act of manipulative and journalists, Special Rapporteurs, is perpetrated and power-over gaze on the Country of Eritrea takes analysis of events in the Horn of subtle aggression. or others who gaze at Eritrea from maintained in international shape in misrepresentative media Africa. The gaze distorts clear the outside without ever visiting relations. We look first at this reports in ‘respected’ western thinking and unified action on The way in which Eritrea responds the country or being in relationship larger context of the gaze before media constructed on clearly critical issues such as addressing a to the gaze is a component of what with her people. considering the case of Eritrea and biased reporting, such as that by refugee crisis of historic proportions makes this country the exception Stop staring. Start caring. The suggesting a different way for the the UN Special Rapporteur–Sheila or responding to regional challenges to the rule. Eritrea is returning cause of self-determination for the international community to be in B. Keetharuth. The outcome of such as food shortages in the Horn the gaze of a world that long held Eritrean people is a just cause. The relationship with African and other this deadly gaze is the perpetrating of Africa. Perpetuating the long- little care about what happened Eritrean people– like all countries countries that are charting their of illegitimate sanctions against discredited narrative that Eritrea in this region of the world. The and people–have the right to design own course in a post-colonial era. Eritrea, economic hardships for the once supported extremist groups in emerging narrative about Eritrea their own future. Eritrean people and aggravation of the region, preempts our ability to will be written by the Eritrean To gaze is to stare fixedly at the tragic flow of refugees from the respond humanely and intelligently people. It will be affirmed by the Sources: www.tesfanews.com countries that are increasingly something out of curiosity or self- Horn of Africa. If we were to accept to unfolding events in the region. About the author: Dr. Samuel interest. For decades, much of the easily refutable representation forging respectful diplomatic relationships, are visiting Eritrea to Mahaffy was born and raised in Africa was subject to the colonial that the people of Eritrea live in Accepting the distorted narrative Eritrea and resides in the Pacific gaze of a world that was ignorantly a ‘perpetual state of fear’ it is that grows from the gaze on Eritrea see for themselves, and countries and corporations that are forming Northwest of the United States. and predatorily curious about the arguably less associated with the and its neighbors, minimizes our He hopes to return to Eritrea peoples it was dominating and the actions of an allegedly repressive ability to understand regional strategic partnerships based on mutual respect and benefit. this summer to participate in continent it was exploiting. The government and more associated complexities and dynamics in the International Conference National Geographic Magazine and with the brazen distortions the region including in countries The next chapters for Eritrea, on Eritrean Scholarship. The other publications shared glimpses perpetuated by the gaze of those like Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, purpose will be not to ‘gaze’ at of African peoples that turned into bent on discrediting the successes Sudan, and South Sudan. The gaze as it celebrates Independence and a progressive course toward self- the Eritrean people, but to listen the gaze of westerners fascinated of the Eritrean people or subverting on Eritrea by outsiders, without and learn about the narrative by the ways and cultural traditions their path to self-reliance. accurate and first-hand information, determination, will not be written by those who gaze in critically from being shaped by the Eritrean of communities and nations they is a detriment to the cause of peace people themselves. knew nothing about. But, the gaze The notion of the post-colonial and stability in the Horn of Africa. the outside. The challenges that Eritrea faces are real, and they are is about more than idle curiosity. gaze is clearly articulated by Samuel Mahaffy is engaged For countries in Africa, the post- Edward Said and others. Outsiders The gaze of those who have Eritrea’s challenges. Engagement with the Eritrean people, must be in research based on A Meta- colonial gaze can be more insidious seek to define a country and an agenda against Eritrea results Analysis of the Discourse and deadly than the colonial gaze. people in terms of their observer’s in distorted media reporting and based on global relational presence that is shaped from journeying with Structure of Competing values, self-interests and the lens blatantly inaccurate ‘fact-finding’ Narratives about Eritrea. He The gaze is about dominance and of privilege and dominance. The by the UN Special Rapporteur. the Eritrean people and not gazing upon them from the outside. may be contacted about this control. It creates a subject-object gaze on Eritrea and other countries It results in intentionally research through his website relationship between the gazer in Africa serves to both affirm misrepresentative ‘Reports To those who gaze on Eritrea and then pontificate on their own www.samuelmahaffy.com. and the object of the gaze. Jean the ‘rightness’ of Western self- on Eritrea’ which have deadly Scholarship on Eritrea–by Paul Sartre introduces the notion identity and privilege and justify consequences. In the interest of interpretations and agenda, it is time to say: “Stop staring!” Eritreans–is one of the many of the gaze. Michael Foucault and maintain the subjugation of peace, justice and sustainable ways in which Eritrea is expands our understanding of the countries seeking to chart their development, we cannot afford to Celebrate with Eritrea her hard- won Independence. Learn about ‘returning the gaze’ that often gaze as a relationship of power- own course. The gaze serves to take at face value the dominant distorts the Eritrean narrative. Disclamer: articles published in this column do not reflect the stance or opinion of Eritrea Profile Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 6

Mr. Tesfai Gheberehiwot Project Manager and Director, Renewable Energy The State of Eritrea Centre European Union UNDP Ministry of Energy & Mines Ministry of Energy and Mines P.O. Box 5285. Asmara, Eritrea PROJECT: Solar PV Mini-Grid Areza-Maidma, Asmara, Eritrea Tel: +291 1 117579; Fax:+291 1 127652 E-mail: [email protected]

Contract Title: Supply of Electricity Distribution and will also be published on the EuropeAid and will also be published Materials/Equipment for the Areza Maidma Solar PV on the EuropeAid website:https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/europeaid/online- Mini-Grid Project services/index.cfm?do=publi.welcome. Location – Areza-Maidma/Southern Debub region, Eritrea The deadline for submission of tenders is June 30th, 2016; at 17:00 hrs Local time. Publication reference: EuropeAid/137890/IH/SUP/ER Possible additional information or clarifications/questions shall be The Government of the State of Eritrea represented by the Ministry of Energy published on the EuropeAid website: and Mines, as Contracting Authority intends to award a supply contract for supply of electricity distribution materials/equipment, delivery and unloading https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/europeaid/online-services/index. at the port of Massawa for Solar PV Mini-Grid system to supply power for cfm?do=publi.welcome and Local News Paper “Eritrean Profile and Haddas two rural towns of Areza, Maidma and surrounding villages. Eritrea”.

“Happy Birthday UNDP… Continued from page 2

As the sun started to go down, it was time impressive outcome of development project implemented focusing on community-based sub-zone, Mrs. Aisha Mohamed, Minister for visitors to rejoin in Keren and assist to the livelihood of Eritreans who are eager approach. Arefaine Berhe of Agriculture as well as in the official ceremony of UNDP’s 50th to improve their living conditions. “We give Minister Tesfai Ghebreselassie of Land, Water anniversary in the premises of Sarina Hotel. money for one micro-dam and they built The evening continued with a dinner and Environment expressed their gratitude Starting with a video show of UNDP’s three of them”, Ms. Umutoni continued. This followed by an instructive presentation on and the government’s willingness to continue history, Mr. Ali Mahmud, Governor of the is surely the motto of the people of Eritrea, Habero project on Climate Change adaptation working in partnership for better livelihood Anseba Region gave a welcome speech under which makes it some of the unique case and program followed by cultural show in which of the people of Eritrea. Certificates were the theme of cooperating for development. explained the great achievement of the 2015 guests took over the dance floor dancing to also handed over to members of the farmer Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the traditional Eritrean beats. communities, representatives of NUEYS as Ms. Umutoni took the attention of the the ongoing work in progress in achieving well as NUEW of the region before ending crowd through her speech and expressed the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals Next morning, on May 6th, the field trip the visit with a well-prepared and delicious her gratitude to all stakeholders and invited (SDGs). continued towards the town of Aretey in the traditional dish and coffee ceremony. guests. During her speech, Ms. Umutoni subzone of Habero, a more than two hours stressed the importance of working in The UK Ambassador to Eritrea, H.E. Mr. drive passing by the serpentine road, surprising Cooperation between Eritrea and its various partnership for sustainable development. David Ward highlighted the resilience of the villagers running towards the roadside to partners including diplomatic missions, Hence, the partnership between Eritrea and people of Eritrea and the importance of such greet the multiple cars passing by. Arriving organizations and companies surely continue the UNDP goes back to 1992 through post- projects in tackling economic challenges the at the Fiza project, as part of the integrated to grow with the sole aim of achieving conflict reconstruction program focusing youth in particular are facing through skills agricultural package, the rain welcomed sustainable development. Hence, partnering on demining and livelihood followed by development. The Chinese Ambassador to visitors. Wearing the UNDP caps, visitors did for development is the motto of the country development programs in areas of food Eritrea, H.E. Mr. Qiu Xuejun also expressed not hesitate to join the local community in the since independence until today. As part of its security, livelihood, environment, energy, his gratitude to UNDP and the Government farmland. The agricultural project through a national priorities; food security, this project, public sector development, governance, of Eritrea in its efforts for sustainable system of solar powered irrigation allowed not only ensure food but also nutrition as justice and human rights without failing to development. He also highlighted the fast communities to strengthen their agricultural Minister Arefaine stressed. Surely, the efforts recall its support to youth and women. approaching silver jubilee anniversary services as well as undertaking soil erosion towards sustainable development can only be of Eritrea’s independence and it is the control measures through forestation, hillside achieved by continued cooperation between Through this different format in celebrating, occasion to assess the progress achieved terracing while providing with the livelihood various institutions and the Government of the UN agency’s anniversary has allowed and the way forward in which China is support systems as in the village of Musha. Eritrea. Working in common with mutually donors, embassy representatives as well as committed to continue partnering with the As part of the National Greening Day, all agreed goals and plans of action are surely other UN agencies to come together and have government of Eritrea and UN partners. The guests actively participated in planting trees the ingredients of the well-implementation of knowledge of the country by interacting with EU representative, Mr. Nelson Jorge, also in the Fiza project site. UNDP and Eritrea joint programs. local communities. Ms. Umutoni also took gave a solidarity speech by enhancing the the opportunity to highlight the importance importance for regular policy dialogue and Later on, dwellers in the town of Aretey of collaboration “to reposition the eyes of the cooperation between the EU, the UNDP and rushed to arrange the latest settings and show Happy 50th Birthday UNDP and Happy international community on Eritrea and vice Eritrea. Representative of Japan shared his the Eritrean hospitality to their guests. After 25th Birthday Eritrea! versa”. What visitors also appreciated is the great impression and strategy of development solidarity speeches by the Governor of the Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 7 “Celebration glows brighter when shared”

Zahra Ahmed Baduri become a journey of tears and smiles, happy moments tear Here is something to talk jerkers of ups and downs of about besides the rainy weather life in a single film. and the cloudy skies of Asmara. I was walking downtown the Finally on Thursday the 5th of other day, I stopped by a place May, they finalized their show where I usually take quality with the fourth and last premier time with myself. As I entered, at cinema Roma. The movie I came to notice a poster of called “Uzak Ihtimal”, “Wrong the Turkish cultural days to be Rosary”, about a man named held here in the city of Asmara Musa, who was appointed to honouring the upcoming 25th Istanbul and settled in small independence anniversary and mosque there. He settled in the subsequent festivities held an apartment used as lodging for this important occasion. for the mosque’s prayer caller, who is unaware of what might The band, the Izmir change in his life as he meets Metropolitan Municipality, ‘Children and Nature’ were Ambassador Firat Sunel The band departed back to their a catholic nurse Clara who which came from Izmir, displayed in cinema Asmara along with the bands led the home, Izmir, the next day on happened to live across from Turkey, performed a pop jazz during the concert, thus, singer singing the Turkish Tuesday the 3rd of May, 2016. his apartment. band show at demonstrating the Eritrean independence song named Yet that was not all, I headed on 2nd May, 2016. Luckily, I culture through the eyes of its “EZMIRMARCH” / “The to the cinema Roma that very The Turkish cultural days happen to be a big fan of Jazz youth, 25 of the best artists had song”. Together they also evening to watch the Turkish had brought a great deal of music and became part of the been granted with awards and showed their cultural dance movie premier subtitled interest on Eritreans since a lot audience, and simultaneously certificates in encouragement. along with the music played in English called “Benim of us are spectators of the series I saw a few of their movies by the band. As glamorous as Dunyam”, “My World”. It of films about their culture, reflecting their culture and As I was waiting for the the night was, the band played was all about a little girl, tradition, artistic views, history tradition along with their sense show to start, the crowed didn’t a few Eritrean melodies like who became sightless and and nationalism. Indeed, of nationalism. Until May the take long to gather. Soon the once sang by Barnabas called ill-impaired due to an illness celebration glows brighter when 5th, these shows were taking cinema was full of artists of “Selam Selam Eritra”. she had at the age of two in shared. They opened a gate for place separately at Cinema all fields of art, government the 1950s, on an island at the others to come to Eritrea and Roma. The event was hosted by officials, and members of the After the show I had the province of Istanbul known as share their culture. They all the Commission of Culture and Turkish Embassy, admirers chance to meet the band and ‘Buyurkada. wished Eritrea a happy 25th Sport of Eritrea and sponsored and foreigners from countries listen to their impression on independence anniversary to by Turkish airlines and the such as China, Italy, the Sudan, Eritrea, then I met with Ozge On Tuesday May 3rd, 2016 be celebrated under the theme Embassy of the Republic of and Egypt. The show began Bilge the third secretary of the the second premier of the movie “Quarter Century of Resilience Turkey in Eritrea. with the Eritrean and Turkish Turkish Embassy, the person “Ask Tesadfufleri Sever”, and Development”. national anthems orchestrated who translated my dialog to “Love likes Coincidences”, Ambassador Zemede Tekle, by the Turkish band. The the band. As this trip to Africa which was about a love story Familiarizing with other Commissioner of Culture and Turkish ambassador to the and especially Eritrea was whose lovers’ path starting people’s culture and views Sport on his speech stressed state Eritrea his Excellency their first time ever, they were from their birth through their adds to the way we view ours that the arrival of this musical Firat Sunel gave an opening overwhelmed by the hospitality childhood and adolescence and create a respectful mutual group on this very special speech to the audience. In his and warm welcome. They came crossed the Turkish capital relationship among different occasion shows the growing speech, His Excellency said to encounter how friendly the ‘Ankara’. Subsequently, on societies, ensuring national relations between the two that Turkey was one of the first Eritreans were to them; they Wednesday the 4th of May, harmony and unshakeable countries. The event previously countries to recognize Eritrea described the ‘stranger feeling’ their third movie was called relationships with various included painting activates as a sovereign state. had faded away when they ‘Mommo’ “The Bogeyman”, countries whether they are for children of different age. arrived on Eritrean soil, at the a story of two children, neighbours or across the Around 558 children from Turkey had celebrated its Asmara international airport. describing a village, its people ocean. 32 different schools partook 100th anniversary last year. and the relationship between in that particular event and In honouring our quarter Time was not enough for siblings with a plain language. Victory to the mass!!!! their artwork under the theme of a century celebration, them due to the schedules they And with a surprise end to had at the cinema Roma for the movie premiere show. As musicians, they stressed that music to them is like their heart beat and as the air they breathe. So I asked them if they have any plans to collaborate with Eritrean singers in the future or come back again. They definitely agreed, if we are willing to invite them again. Vol. 23 No.19 Vol. 23 NVo.19 o Eritrea Profile,Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Vol 23. No. 20 8

Sports Interview with Pro Eritrean Cyclists Meron Teshome and Amanuel Mengis

BIKE AID: Amanuel, you are kind of modest. He certainly still a quite young man. At 21 does have a couple of real good years, it is your first time to be success already, but he is humble. far away from your home and I’d have to agree, we cannot family for so long. How does it just fill our heads with many feel? expectations now, and it is quite soon for the both of us: we’re Amanuel Mengis (21): I both on our first year and first am more than happy of the season in Europe. My personal opportunity of doing what I want goal is to develop and to adapt to and being here. Nevertheless, it highest of standards. is also not so easy for me being far away from home for a long Meron, you said that the level time, but you know, I keep telling here in Europe is so high and myself that this is the biggest different. What exactly is the chance of my life so far for me to difference in racing in Africa or excel in my profession, and I will Europe? keep challenging myself further because I am still this young. But Meron Teshome: I don’t want still, I miss my family and hope to be misunderstood. Races in I can stand the feeling of missing Africa are also very hard and my family…. I think I can pull it already at a good level, they off, I am strong (laughs). are definitely on their own way of development. The difference Meron, for you it is a bit would be on the tacticts of the different. You already gained race. two years of experience in South Amanuel Mengis and Meron Teshome, young Eritrean riders of Stradalli BIKE AID Africa when you were member of You two just started at the the MTN-Qhubeka feeder team. Mallorca Challenge in Spain What are your expectations now with a lot of the best riders in that I still find hard to believe it we joke around and simply have to train there. I also enjoyed the that you are in Europe? the world. How did you feel? was true. a good time. coffee-stops during our training rides in Mallorca, which was a Meron Teshome (23): Talking Meron Teshome: (with Amanuel Mengis: Yes, yes. Lot of the times other guys very nice feeling. about expectations is always not bright shining eyes): It was just That is exactly how I felt when look at us and wonder how we so easy. Yes, I did gain some an incredible moment. I was Sir Bradley Wiggins was riding manage to be so close to each Meron Teshome: (starts experience in South Africa when happy and proud when I rode next to me, almost trough out the other. laughing loud) yes, this is really I was trained in the UCI cycle next to my companion Daniel whole day! A lot of people know of Bike good. But me unlike Amanuel, I center added to experiences I Teklehaymanot (Eritrean Pro- Aid back at home, in Eritrea. was experiencing the other side gained when I teamed alongside Cyclist, Team Dimension Data What does BIKE AID mean They know of its concept and the of the coin when I arrived couple the national team. I also did the WorldTour), and even more to you? And how is it regarded project behind it, especially after of weeks ago and during a ride it Tour de l’Avenir (biggest stage thrilled when all of a sudden back in your country Eritrea? the success of Mekseb Debesay, started to snow! race for U23), but this is quite Fabian Cancellara turned up to when he moved from BIKE AID a very different challenge. Now ride next to me. He has been my Meron Teshome: To me, this to the WorldTour. So the positive excitement I have to compete with the best idol since I was a child and it team means much more than turned quickly into suffering riders in the world and that is felt like a dream. I immediately just a “normal” cycling team. It Coming to the end. What do when I realized how cold it is, something really great. So I hope told Daniel that I was riding is more like a family: you know you like of Europe, Germany I don’t have prior experience of I can gain even more and even next to my idol, I told him in our how when we travel for races, and what not? snow. Also, consecutive rainy more versatile experiences as I language tgringna, he was happy other teams sit together but they days… that is a first too! grow professionally. for me too. do not really talk or laugh, with Amanuel Mengis: The roads is it is a lot different. We enjoy are awesome here. Perfect spots Amanuel Mengis: (laughs That was one of the joyous being together, we have lot of for training. I stayed a bit longer Source: madote.com again) yeah, Meron is always moments related to my profession fun together and most of the time in Mallorca and it was just great quarter century of ResiliEnce and Development