Eritrea Newspapers & News Sites

Eritrea is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Ethiopia to the south, Sudan to the west, and Djibouti and the Red Sea to the east. The country has a long and complex history, with a mix of indigenous cultures, colonial rule, and independence struggles.

Pre-Colonial Era

Eritrea has been inhabited by various ethnic groups for thousands of years, including the Tigrinya, Tigre, and Saho peoples. These groups had their own distinct cultures and languages, and were organized into small, independent states.

Colonial Era

In the late 19th century, Eritrea was colonized by Italy, which established it as a colony and used it primarily as a military base. Under Italian rule, the country saw significant infrastructure development, including the construction of railways, roads, and buildings. However, the indigenous population was subjected to harsh treatment and exploitation.

During World War II, Eritrea was occupied by the British, who later transferred control to Ethiopia. Eritrea became a province of Ethiopia in 1962, but this move was highly contested by Eritrean nationalists, who launched a struggle for independence.

Independence and Post-Independence

Eritrea gained its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, following a long and bloody war. The country was led by President Isaias Afwerki, who was a prominent figure in the independence struggle. Initially, there was hope that Eritrea would emerge as a prosperous and democratic nation.

However, over time, the government became increasingly repressive, with the ruling party, the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), cracking down on opposition groups and imposing strict controls on the media and civil society. The country has been accused of a range of human rights abuses, including torture, arbitrary detention, and forced labor.

Eritrea is also known for its compulsory military service, which requires all citizens to serve in the military for an indefinite period of time. This policy has been criticized by human rights groups, who argue that it amounts to forced labor and is a violation of basic human rights.

Culture

Eritrea is home to a diverse array of cultures and languages. The Tigrinya language is the most widely spoken, but there are also a number of other languages spoken in the country, including Tigre, Saho, and Afar. The country is known for its traditional music, dance, and dress, which vary by region and ethnic group.

The country is also known for its coffee culture, with coffee being an important part of daily life and social gatherings. Eritrean cuisine is a mix of African, Middle Eastern, and Italian influences, with dishes like injera (a sourdough flatbread) and zigni (a spicy meat stew) being popular.

Conclusion

Eritrea is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a complex history. While it has made progress in areas like education and health care, it continues to face significant challenges, including political repression and human rights abuses. There is hope that with greater international engagement and support, Eritrea will be able to build a more democratic and prosperous future for its people.