Vol. 25 No. 78 Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

Training on Cartography Information Systems (CIS)

A five-week training program on Cartographic Information Systems was provided to 44 members of the Ministry of Agriculture branch in Serejaka sub-zone.

Eritrean nationals organize discussion forum At a graduation ceremony conducted on 22 November, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, Eritrean nationals residing in the attests to the unity and steadfastness Mohammed Mahmud, Chairman Minister of Agriculture, stated that the training program will help improve United Kingdom (UK) organized a of the people. of the National Committee, and data collection and enhance production and productivity. discussion forum on 24 November. Ambassador Peter Ford delivered The forum focused on the Indicating that the ongoing messages of congratulations. Calling on the trainees to upgrade the knowledge they acquired during the objective situation in , recent developments toward peace and program and transfer it to their colleagues, Minister Arefaine expressed the developments in the Horn of Africa, cooperation will support development Participants at the forum expressed Ministry’s readiness to provide further support to trainees. He also revealed and the responsibility of citizens. in Eritrea and the Horn of Africa, their readiness to contribute to that more training programs would be organized in the future. Ambassador Estifanos expressed his Eritrea’s national development Speaking at the event, Mr. expectation that the Eritrean people drives. The Managing Director in the Central region, Mr. Zerit Teweldeberhan, Estifanos Habtemariam, the will repeat the miracles demonstrated noted that the training program would help raise productivity and production. Eritrean Ambassador to the UK and during the armed struggle and in Ambassador Estifanos also handed He also encouraged the trainees to put what they learned during the training Northern Ireland, said that the fact safeguarding national sovereignty over certificates of recognition program into practice. that the Eritrean people emerged within the ongoing nation-building to national organizations and victorious against colonialists and process. associations for their outstanding The trainees called for the provision of computers and the inclusion of in safeguarding national sovereignty At the seminar, Mr. Ahmed contributions. members outside of the headquarters in future training programs.

Third Congress of the National Association Eritrea wins Africa Cup competition of Mentally and Physically Impaired In the “Criterium Stage” of Men’s Elite and Under-23 cycling which covered 80.5 km, Matthee The National Association of the citizens is a societal issue, Mr. the Africa Cup, taking place on team won the road race conducted Maroesjka, from South Africa, Ese Mentally and Physically Impaired Mehreteab Feshaye, Director General 24 November and covering 34.4 on 25 November in . Lovina, from , and Tsega conducted its Third Congress on 24 of Social Security at the Ministry of kilometers, South Africa and Gebre, of , won Gold, November in Asmara. Labor and Social Welfare, said that Ethiopia snatched Gold Medals In the men’s road race, which Silver, and Bronze, respectively. strong efforts are being conducted to for the elite and under-23 women’s covered 161 kilometers, Sirak In the women’s under-23 race, Ese Speaking at the meeting, ensure the welfare of mentally and category, respectively, while Eritrea Tesfom, Dawit Yemane, and Daniel Lovina from Nigeria took first place, the Honorary Chairman of the physically impaired children. won Gold in the elite and under-23 Habtemichael, all from Eritrea, while Berhan Fkadu and Tigisti Association, Mr. Kiflai Gebremicael, men’s category. won Gold, Silver, and Bronze, Gebrehiwet, both from Ethiopia, took said that since its establishment eight Lieutenant Colonel Berhane respectively. Sirak Tesfom also second and third place, respectively. years ago, the NAMPI has helped Bokretsion, Chairman of the In the women’s elite competition, became the overall winner of the improve the lives of its members. NAMPI, also presented a detailed Sanet Coetzee of South Africa won Africa Cup. The Africa Cup featured teams report of NAMPI’s activities during Gold while Tsega Gebru of Ethiopia from across Africa, including Eritrea, Mr. Kiflai went on to say that the the past four years. and Margesjka Matthee of South In the under-23 men’s category, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Egypt, Nigeria, NAMPI has helped increase public Africa settled for Silver and Bronze Dawit Yemane, Daniel Habtemicael, , Uganda, South Africa, and awareness of the challenges faced Participants at the meeting held medals, respectively. In the women’s and Robel Tewolde, all from Eritrea, the . Eritrea put in a by mentally and physically impaired extensive discussions on the report under-23 competition, Eden Bekele won Gold, Silver, and Bronze strong performance, winning 21 total individuals and made a positive and also adopted recommendations. from Ethiopia won Gold, while medals, respectively. medals, including 10 Gold, 6 Silver, impact in reducing stigma and Znab Ftsum and Diana Dawit, both In the women’s road race, and 5 Bronze. discrimination. The National Association of the of Eritrea, settled for Silver and Mentally and Physically Impaired Bronze, respectively. Indicating that the challenges faced was established in 2010 and has by mentally and physically impaired about 4,000 members. In the elite men’s competition, Sirak Tesfom of Eritrea won Gold, Henok Mulubrhan of Eritrea took Silver, and Samuel Mugisha from Rwanda Bronze. In the men’s under- 23 category, Henok Mulubrhan of Eritrea, Samuel Mugisha of Rwanda, and Redwan Salih from Ethiopia, won Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, respectively. Additionally, Eritrea’s National Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 2

Eritrea’s Perfect Race at the Africa Cup

Natnael Yebio W. enigmatic, Daniel, race a mind-blowing 4 minutes and third place in the women’s under-23 the team’s captain, 27 seconds ahead of the peloton. category. “We can learn a lot from The perfect race! If there ever was led admirably, Henok the Eritrean riders,” said winner of such a thing, this was it. The Eritrean shone, and Sirak had The first race of the day, held in the stage Mathee, while expressing men’s cycling team had six riders at just enough of each the early morning of Sunday, was her delight for claiming first place in the starting line. They finished the quality to beat his the women’s 80.5-km long road the inaugural Africa Cup. race, a 181-km long road race held in talented teammates to race. The race, which included four the world heritage site Asmara, taking the finish line. national teams and a total of 16 The first edition of the Africa Cup the top six places. The Africa Cup riders, saw South Africa’s Mathee 2018 officially came to a close with cycling competition, which ran from Of course, Sirak Maroejska win gold, followed by a dinner reception held in Asmara’s November 21st to 25th, concluded wasn’t the only story Nigeria’s Lovina Ese Ukbeseraye Municipality Hall. This was a time to this past Sunday in emphatic fashion of the Africa Cup. and Ethiopia’s Tsega Beyene in recap on the last five days of racing. as Eritrea’s Sirak Tesfom, who had His victory was second and third place, respectively. In a speech he gave during the event, dominated the competition, won the given extra luster by CAC president, Dr. Mohammad cup. the mature riding of Shortly after the race, the Eritrean Wagih Azam, expressed his gratitude Henok Mulubrhan and Ethiopian riders tried to make to Eritrea for hosting the competition The Africa Cup brought together throughout the an early break. However, the attacks and stated that the passion Eritrean’s all the elements needed for a perfect entirety of the race. were uncoordinated and the two have for cycling is extraordinary. bike race. The cycling culture, the The fight between teams were unable to as breakaway He also presented gifts to Eritrea’s passion, the city, and the passes – all him and Rwanda’s from the peloton. Commissioner of Culture and Sport, in a five-day race. Mussi Mugisha Ambassador Zemede Tekle, the turned this year’s The Eritrean team, featuring president of the Eritrean Cycling Sunday’s road race zigzagged race into an instant Zinab Fitsum, Adiam Tesfealem, Federation, Tewelde Yohannes, from Bahti Meskerem, to Menaharia, classic. However, it Tigsti Gebrehiwet, and Letemichael, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Eritrea, Mr. through Mizan and Bar Kit-Kat, to win. was Sirak’s ride that will live long in were kept quiet by the impressive Redwan Salih, UCI commissioner uphill to Forto, and downhill past the memory. South African team, led by Mathee Isabella Fernandes, as well as CAC Keih Bahri Secondary School, Believe it or not, cycling is a team Maroesjka, Liezel Jordan, and Sanet technical delegates, Mr. Mohamed before heading to Semaetat Avenue. sport, which is why you see groups The competition was also graced Coetzee. However, a crash during Bashir and Noha Solima. The race also saw the inclusion of riders wearing the same uniforms by the presence of talented Ethiopian the uphill section of the course, of the Uganda national team, who or kits. Sure, it requires individual riders. Temesghen Buru was one around Forto, involving Eritrea’s Mr. Tewelde extended his traveled over night to participate in talent and skill, acquired after logging of the competition’s most exciting Tigsti Gebrehiwet and South Africa’s appreciation to all those who helped the final competition. They joined many, many miles, racing numerous athletes and his spirited battle Liezel Jordan, resulted in the peloton organize and prepare the competition, Benin, Egypt, host nation Eritrea, times, and more than a little sweat! In with Henok and Samuel Migisha breaking away. Demonstrating great particularly Eritrea’s Commission of Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and the competitive cycling, practice makes on the final lap of the race was resilience, the two riders quickly Culture and Sports. Seychelles. However, it was Team close to perfect, since you also need unforgettable. The persistence and caught up with the group. Eritrea that demonstrated its prowess. teammates and a strategy. Cycling is fortitude he exhibited in keeping up The first edition of the Africa From start to finish, we couldn’t stop a highly strategic sport and winning with Henok and Samuel, ultimately In the end, in what was the best Cup was magical. Although many talking about Sirak, Dawit, Daniel, races doesn’t simply happen by seeing him finish in eighth place, sprint finish of the day, South Africa’s host countries look to international and Robel. From the start, the crowd accident. astonished the crowd. Mathee Maroejska won the race. experts to help with the hosting of realized that the were going Nigeria’s Lovina who quietly rode large sporting events, Africa Cup Eritrea’s win on Sunday was partly The captain of the national team, the entire race sandwiched between was entirely organized by Eritrean based on strategy. After the race, Aron Debrestion, who won silver the leader and the rest of the riders, institutions. The Cycling Federation coach Samsom Solomon revealed in the individual time trial, finished surprisingly won Nigeria’s first of Eritrea, the Commission of that the team had planned to break in fifth on the last day of the medal of the competition, followed Culture and Sport, and all sponsors away from the peloton on the third competition. Overall, the first four by Tsega of Ethiopia. Eritrea’s Tigsti and volunteers should be praised lap; however, the jumped the gun, so riders who broke away during the Gebrehiwet, despite suffering a crash for putting together an amazing and Published Every to speak, and instead broke away on beginning of the first lap finished the midway through the race, finished in successful competition. Published Every SaturdayPublished & Wednesday Every the first lap, which was highly risky Wednesday & Saturday but proved greatly rewarding. Saturday & Wednesday Acting Editor Sirak triumphed in the Africa Cup Acting Editor with a passive-aggressive masterpiece Amanuel Mesfun of doggedness, occasional boldness, [email protected] Mesfun [email protected] patience, timing, strength, and some luck (or at least the complete absence P.O.Box: 247 P.O.Box: 247 of bad luck). After the race, he stood Tel: 11-41-14 upon the podium in Bahti Meskerem, Fax: 12-77-49 with a mix of happiness and disbelief E-mail: etched onto his face. “I dedicate this [email protected]@[email protected] zena.gov.er win to all my teammates and our Advertisement: 12-50-13 supporters,” he said.

Layout The Eritreans won plaudits for AAzmerazmera BerhaneBerhane their domination and few could deny that they had just completed a near- AidaSaraSara JoharAlem perfect race. Dawit was aggressive, Daniel was brave, Robel more Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 3

Views and Musings

Dr. Fikrejesus Amahazion their country so admirably. It they also provided a warm, gracious is important to note that sport welcome to the visiting athletes and Cycling in Eritrea: beyond has huge potential to empower fans. As I observed the young local sport… women and girls. In many fans cheering and singing excitedly, countries, it has been recognized I could not help but think that some Several weeks ago, I mentioned that sport can improve girls’ and of them would go on to one day in passing that football (or what women’s self-esteem and be a represent their nation in major races. in some places is called soccer) is force to tear down gender barriers the most popular sport in Eritrea. and discrimination. Throughout I genuinely hope that the Africa In response, some have suggested the duration of the Africa Cup, Cup is just a harbinger of things that I was mistaken. Allow me our female athletes put in strong to come for Eritrean cycling. Our to clarify. In Eritrea, football is performances in challenging athletes, both male and female, are so the most popular sport because conditions, which should defy talented and we should all continue to cycling is beyond merely a sport any lingering misperceptions support and encourage them. While and instead assumes a societal that they are weak or incapable. the competition was a reminder of position that is more along the They demonstrated not only great just how deep our nation’s cycling lines of a religion. The great and smooth running of the the quality of competition and physical strength and stamina, but talent is, we must not be complacent. popularity of cycling in Eritrea competition. Hosting an event the large number of talented also leadership, strategic thinking, Eritrea has so much more to was again in evidence during the on the scale of the Africa Cup is young riders. Team Eritrea made courage, and tenacity. achieve. We still need to invest in past week as the country played a large undertaking and all those us all proud and we now have better facilities, sponsorships, and host to the inaugural Africa who were involved in putting on several more national sporting The fans also deserve great development programs in order to Cup cycling competition. The such an amazing show merit our heroes to feel good about. One credit. Large crowds, filled with ensure that we properly develop and Africa Cup was hosted through appreciation and applause. of the special highlights for me many youngsters, came out to nurture our vast array of talent. If the cooperation of the Eritrean was seeing our young female passionately support Eritrea’s next we do this, we can achieve much Cycling Federation and the I was also very impressed by athletes compete and represent generation of cycling stars and more in the future. African Cycling Confederation (CAC, which is also known as the Confédération Africaine de Cyclisme). It was also supported by the International Cycling Union (UCI, also known as Union Cycliste Internationale), the Switzerland-based world governing body which oversees international competitive cycling events.

The Africa Cup, featuring various races in several categories among both men and women, ran from November 21st to 25th, with races taking place in Asmara. A total of eight countries from across the continent took part in the competition: Eritrea, as host, as well as Benin, Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, the Seychelles, and South Africa. Eritrea put in a dominant display, dazzling many and winning a total of 21 medals – 10 Gold, 6 Silver, and 5 Bronze.

After the competition kicked off early last week, I caught several of the races and also closely followed along on Eri-TV, which featured live television coverage. Speaking as an Eritrean, it was a great honor that Eritrea, one of the youngest nations on the continent and in the world, was awarded the special privilege of hosting the first edition of such an important competition. Throughout the week, I was highly impressed by the organization, professionalism, Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 4

Putting Archaeology within the

Abraham Zerai understanding among people Undoubtedly, archaeology Realmin a nation. of The construction National of Developmentis tremendously important to the The ability to understand identities for people who share a growth of the tourism industry in multiple perspectives on the common past is a particular area Eritrea. It is expected that with the use of archaeology in the where archaeological research massive archaeological heritage contemporary world is critical and interpretation can play a resources in Eritrea, the economy to the practice of archaeology. significant role. This is especially will thrive as a result of the benefits The practice of archaeology has true in the context of countries that archaeological tourism broadened to include an array like Eritrea where much of the produces. The need to balance of approaches to ensure that it past has been misrepresented amid the preservation of our heritage serves the needs of all segments colonial legacies and distortions. resources and promote them for of society. As questions of “who tourism will be an increasingly owns the past” and “what service In Eritrea, the birth of important dilemma in the near does archaeology give the public” archaeology as a discipline future. Unique archaeological linger, it becomes necessary following independence aimed to sites can attract many tourists and to highlight why archaeology provide an authentic representation help increase foreign exchange. is important, particularly in of the country´s past within the The presentation and preservation the framework of sustainable confines of scientific practice. in a variety of meaningful ways. Archaeology has great of our heritage resources should development. Given the multitude The need to build a coherent and Through archaeology, national, educational potential for the be seen as a way to increase of benefits the discipline offers to authentic narrative of Eritrea´s cultural, and ethnic identity can general public. Archaeological tourism and promote national society, this article reflects on the past is outlined in the National be preserved and solidified. All information is brought to the public development. The conservation of role of archaeology in national Charter and archaeology is across the world, archaeology through museums, interpretive archaeological resources can be development within Eritrea. vital to addressing that need. has the ability to unite people of sites, and cultural institutions. properly conducted with foresight, A summarized perspective is Archaeology transcends the a common heritage in ways that Exhibit designers and museum guidance, and adequate planning. highlighted to emphasize the limitations of written records and nothing else can. The emphasis curators use archaeological important ways archaeological it can reveal detailed stories when on the technological, aesthetic, research for informative programs Importantly, archaeology knowledge contributes to enhance no documents exist. Conjectures, and spiritual appeal of various and interpretive displays. These can support rural development our lives, both at the individual myths, constructs, and distortions civilizations that flourished in platforms provide an opportunity in different ways. Surveys and community level, and the have infused the representations the northern Horn of Africa is to reflect on the diversity of the of the landscape can provide well-being of our nation. of our past. The need to provide significant in promoting cultural human experience in an engaging information about long-term land correct narratives is integral to understanding among different and informative way. They use, agricultural sustainability, The term sustainable building national identity and communities and is thus crucial bring light to the past, making indigenous knowledge systems, development, in addition to consciousness in Eritrea. for regional peace. The correct it accessible to everyone and human- or naturally-induced referring to the crusade to fight representation of the past through allowing visitors to connect the environmental change, and the endemics and reduce poverty, Having emphasized the national scientific archaeological studies past to their own lives. These human effect on biodiversity. As addresses the efforts made course, archaeology promotes is not only important for national forums also encourage general well, archaeological research can by humans and societies who cultural understanding among development. It can also play participation in interpreting offer insights into the problems possess an identity and a history. different people and communities a significant role in regional the past and safeguarding the we face today. For example, it can Development is not only about in the country through revealing the cooperation, which is important archaeological record. The help us better understand broad education or infrastructure, but past. Archaeology has the ability for peaceful co-existence among ability to translate the findings patterns of human adaptation to also the efforts to create a common to bring communities together societies and countries in the of archaeological studies into massive global climate change Horn. a format understood by the or community responses to general public is made possible local environmental shifts. An by the creation and flourishing archaeological perspective can of these institutions. Archaeology also provide us with a better promotes the development of understanding of how human institutions that preserve history, resource consumption affects our such as museums. The opening environment. of museums in Eritrea was partly guided by these motives. In conclusion, it is clear that archaeological research provides As an academic discipline, us with a number of important archaeology can also promote benefits. However, we still need national development. Education to comprehend its full value. fosters development in a number Archaeological research in Eritrea of ways. The integration of the aims to involve the society in representation of Eritrea´s past preserving and interpreting the in the curriculum of elementary, past. A harmonious relationship junior high, secondary, and and partnership is crucial for the tertiary level education plays an practice and will help ensure a important role in building national better understanding of not only identity and supporting national the Eritrean past, but also its development. present.

A column prepared in collaboration with the Eritrea’s culture and sports commission Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 5

Photo Natnael Yebio W. Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 6

• Competent with mining • Ability to conduct and scheduling software, i.e. Engineering matters to Surpac, Datamine, Deswik various levels; etc.; • Strategic planning; • Interpersonal skills; • Project planning; • Ability to work under pressure and achieve project milestones; VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT • Budgeting;

Bisha Mining Share Company is inviting applicants for the following position for Bisha • Plan, organise, and execution site project; • Risk management and 1. Job Title: Underground Project Engineer assessment; Department: Underground Feasibility Study • Analytical and Problem Number required: (01) solving; Contract Period: 02 Years • Technical Report writing; • PRIMARY PURPOSE • A good knowledge of the o Assist the Underground Feasibility Study Manager with planning, scheduling, mineral coordination, monitoring and management of the various tasks required to meet the • reporting codes, including Project schedule milestones and the execution plan with the Alliance Partner. Guide and mentor the Underground Project Technical Officers. the NI43-101 • Task Description Expanded to Core Performance Areas General Information and other requirements: • Project Planning and Management ..Place of Work: Bisha. o Planning and scheduling of the underground projects and update project ..Salary: As per Company salary scale. schedules as required Additional requirement for Nationals: o Monitoring of the progress on project milestones ..Having fulfilled his/her National Service obligation and provide evidence of release o Weekly and end of month reporting on projects and department activities, attend paper from the Ministry of Defense. meetings as required. ..Present clearance paper from current/last employer. o Understand the strategic, long term mine plans for the projects with the overall ..Testimonial documents to be attached (CV, work experience credentials, a copy of your strategic BMSC Life of Mine Plan National Identity Card etc.). o The development of short term plans that maintains the long term objectives ..Only shortlisted applicants would be considered as potential candidates for an • Administrations interview. o Project management documentation. ..Application documents will not be returned to sender. o Compilation of Project reports, attend meetings as required. ..All applications should be sent through the post office. o Provide other duties as requested. ..Deadline for application: 10 days from the day of publication in the Newspaper. o Ensure ethical behaviour at all times and maintain good communication within .. Address: Please mail your applications to; the department. Bisha Mining Share Company, o Maintain and enforce the BMSC Safety and Health policies at all times P. O. Box 4276 Asmara, Eritrea • Budgeting ..Note to Non - Eritrean applicants: o Financial tracking of the project budgets and capital expenditure of the Please send a copy of your application to department. Aliens Employment Permit Affairs, o Development of cost models in Excel and Financial Analysis. P. O. Box 7940 Asmara, Eritrea. • Mine Engineerng o Development, evaluation and reviewing of mine designs and production scheduling with Alliance Partner. o Development, review, monitoring and management of the execution plan with the Alliance Partner o Technical audits and evaluation, including mining methods, infrastructure, designs, schedules and financials o Provide mentoring to the mining engineers and graduate mining engineers. o Provide other duties as required o Assist with intergration of underground related safety protocols, mining standards and SoPs into the BMSC system • Report Writing o Generate weekly and monthly reports; o Compliation of technical reports, NI43-101 compliant

• UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS / OTHER INFORMATION o Attend training courses as required

• Knowledge, experience and skills Qualifications: • Degree in Mining Engineering • Further qualification in Finance/Business Management would be an advantage

Knowledge and Experience: • 10 to 15 years mining related experience. • 5 to 10 years working experience in hard rock underground mining • 5 years experience in project planning • 5 years experience in mine planning, scheduling and risk assessment • 3 years experience in budgeting Technical Skills Behavioural Skills • Computer Literacy • Communications • MS Office – Intermediate, • Ability to work in multi- Excel – Advanced; MS project disciplinary environment; – Advanced); Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 7

TOTAL

COUNTERFEIT PRODUCT NOTICE !!

Recently there has been an abundance of imitation of TOTAL lubricant on the market. TOTAL cannot and will not be liable of any damage caused by the use of said fake products.

TOTAL has confirmed utilization of such lubricants will definitely damage the vehicles.

To this effect TOTAL Eritrea has introduced anti-counterfeit label on all TOTAL lubricants in the market.

We strongly advice our customer to check the authenticity of the lubricants in the market.

ኩባንያ ቶታል ነቲ ንናቱ ምስሊ ዝመሳሰል ዘሎ ዝተተምየነ ዘይቲ ንምፍላይ እዚ ዝስዕብ

ጥንቃቐታት ክንገብር ነትሓሳስብ።  ክታም ሓቀኛን ዘይተተምየነን ዘይተሰንዐን መዐሸጊ ዘይቲ ኩባንያ ቶታል (ስእሊ ታሕቲ ርአ) ዘለዎ እዩ።

 ንብሉጽ ተጠቃምነትን ውሕስነትን ኣተዓሻሽጋ መኽደን ዘይቲ ኣስተብህልሉ።

 ሓቀኛ ዘይቲ ቶታል ትሕቲ መኽደን ዕሹግ ምዃኑ ኣረጋግጹ።

Eritrea Profile ,Wednesday, November 28, 2018 Vol. 25 No. 78 8

The Eritrean Patriotic Group: Supporting

Nemron YohannesEritrean Iyassu Development and Progress cancelled his appearance at the Association office to talk to the Eritrea in the future? Although separated from Eritrea by thousands of kilometers, conference without informing manager about our past and future the members of the Eritrean Patriotic Group (EPG), located in anyone. Secretly Solomon called donations and how we could help Of course! We have already Frankfurt, Germany, maintain a strong connection to their home his Eritrean friends in Stuttgart to improve the mobility of veterans. collected enough money for the country. From Germany, the group has extended considerable help him pick up the billiards table Some days, later Massawa trip in support and supported development in Eritrea and made. We had and deliver it to the War Veteran’s I visited 2019. We are the opportunity to do discuss the organization and its important Association in Stuttgart, because them at planning work with Desale Asfaha, of Frankfurt, one of the EPG’s founding they were sending a container to to buy members. Eritrea that day. He later surprised new us all with his unexpected story. So for us it is a big advantage to be active in not only one city. What was the motivation together” and help them to get behind establishing the Eritrean connected to the local society. You have now been here for Patriotic Group (EPG)? about 3 weeks. What have you We are also driven by the been up to, besides catching up When we decided to establish question of how we can support with family and friends? this organization, there was a lot the Eritrean people directly. We of bad news about Eritrea floating heard about a project for pupils Together with Martin in the media. As Eritreans living of the school for the visually- Zimmermann, I visited the in Germany, we wanted to show impaired in Godaif. It arranges school for the visually-impaired the people in Germany the truth. annual tours for students to and the orphanage in Godaif. We Sure, Eritrea has challenges, like Massawa. I directly contacted wanted to talk about the Massawa everywhere else. However, the the EHD (Eritrea Hilfswerk in project and have a closer look at Eritrean people are proud and Deutschland e.V.) and connected their actual needs. Development hard-working. And Eritrea has with Martin Zimmermann, the requires open communication many, many positive aspects, manager of this organization. I met and we want to ensure that we are which people hardly hear about. him in Eritrea a couple of years providing the requisite support. Denden to swimming ago and already knew that he was We are planning to build a new see how they vests for the 65 More importantly, however, we great work for Eritrea. I informed sports field there. live and better understand their pupils so that everyone can go on established the EPG in order to the EPG members about our challenges and needs. the trip, even the young ones. In support our brothers and sisters conversation and within a week We also went to the BIDHO fact, we are hoping to get more back home. Eritrea is young and we collected €3500, which we headquarters to see how we could I guess you could say that a lot and more members in the near still growing; thus, it can still handed over to Mr. Zimmermann. support them. BIDHO works of the trip has been doing research future. We welcome any and all use support to help it reach its 9 months later, we decided to to address challenges related in order to better understand how who want to support Eritrea. full potential. In 2017, we began create EHD-Frankfurt in order to to HIV/AIDS. They have done we can more effectively support working in Frankfurt. We had improve cooperation between the excellent work over the years and our nation. only 4 members. However, we EPG and the EHD. Now, we are we simply want to support that. Thank you for the interview have grown rapidly and we have running the two organizations so Do you guys already have Desale. Best wishes to you and 66 total members from all over that we can assume responsibility I went to the War Veteran’s plans how you want to support the EPG! Germany, including Stuttgart, for the yearly Massawa tour. Mannheim, Frankfurt, Essen, and Hannover. In fact, we are looking We also wanted to support the forward to grow even more! Eritrea’s war veterans and we have collected donations. In the How does the EPG work? end, we were able to donate two electric wheelchairs, one running In Germany, we were supporting wheelchair, and one billiards Eritrean organizations with our table for the veterans. various skills and “manpower.” For example, some members What benefits are there from of the group from Heilbronn, in being active in different cities? cooperation with the National Confederation of Eritrean Let me answer this question with Workers (NCEW), are helping an interesting story. We had our to build schools in Eritrea. When founding conference in Frankfurt, they want to ship things, like new as we received the news that we school materials to Eritrea, we could give the veterans a billiards help them load the containers. table as a gift. However, someone would have to go pick it up from We also organized a football Stuttgart. However, because of tournament in Gießen this year the conference, no member was and we invited recent Eritrean able to go there. So Solomon migrants as a way to “come Hagus, an EPG member, simply