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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contribution to augment the National Fund to combat COVID-19 continues with great zeal. Asmara, 16 May 2020- Contribution to augment the National Fund to combat COVID-19 continues with great zeal. According to the daily report coming from the Ministry of Health and Eritrean Diplomatic Missions, employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs contributed 540 thousand Nakfa, employees of Commercial Bank of Eritrea contributed additional 574 thousand and 284 Nakfa, employees of the Forestry and Wilde Life Authority 512 thousand and 414 Nakfa, employees of ‘Africa ASSAY Laboratories 8 thousand and 706 US Dollars and Denden Camp community 10 thousand Nakfa. Bisha Mining Company contributed 911 thousand and 210 Nakfa, Azel Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plant 164 thousand and 225 Nakfa, employees of the Ministry of Local Government central office 113 thousand and 155 Nakfa, China S.R.B.G 400 thousand Nakfa, employees of the Ministry of National Development central office and National Statistics 82 thousand and 303 Nakfa, Irab transport share company 20 thousand Nakfa, ‘Al Aisel’ Biscuit and Candy factory 5 thousand Nakfa and employees of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare branch in the Southern Red Sea region 4 thousand and 395 Nakfa. Similarly, a number of administrative areas in the Southern and Northern Red Sea and Southern regions as well as social service provision institutions and associations in Asmara contributed a total of 273 thousand and 109 Nakfa Three administrative areas of Ghinda town contributed 10 thousand Nakfa each, vegetable farmers in Ghinda sub-zone 30 thousand Nakfa, Islamic Awkaf in Ghinda sub-zone 5 thousand Nakfa, Abune Teklehaimanto Church 2 thousand and 500 Nakfa, eleven administrative areas in Ghinda sub-zone contributed a total of 77 thousand and 280 Nakfa, small businesses in Ghinda town 20 thousand Nakfa, dairy farmers in Ghinda sub-zone 10 thousand Nakfa and government employees 24 thousand and 280 Nakfa. Likewise six administrative areas and dairy farmers in Segneity sub-zone contributed a total of 37 thousand and 555 Nakfa. In related news, Photo Petroleum Production in the United Arab Emirates contributed 50 thousand Durham, three Eritrean nationals in Dubai 20 thousand Durham and Eritrean nationals in Riyadh 10 thousand Riyals. A number of nationals residing inside the country and abroad have also decided that the families renting their houses in various parts of the country to live free of rental payment ranging from two to three months.

COVID -19 continues to spread at an alarming rate globally since the first outbreak of the disease in December last year.  To-date, the pandemic has engulfed more than 200 counties and territories infecting more than 4.6 million people and claiming more than 300,000 lives. COVID -19 continues to spread at an alarming rate globally since the first outbreak of the disease in December last year.  To-date, the pandemic has engulfed more than 200 counties and territories infecting more than 4.6 million people and claiming more than 300,000 lives. In the majority of countries, controlling the contagion and leveling the curve still remain elusive objectives and aspirations.   Reversing the rate of transmission and eschewing the risk of resurgence have not, indeed, crystallized yet. At the same time, the multiple and intensive researches earnestly underway to find vaccines or therapeutic drugs for COVID-19 are still at an early, preliminary phase.  All these factors accentuate the magnitude and gravity of the global pandemic. Against this preoccupying backdrop, the GOE’s strategy of combating COVID-19 has been clear and unequivocal from the outset. The essence of this policy consists of taking, first and foremost, all requisite measures to prevent an outbreak of the disease and to curtail its transmission through robust Non-Pharmaceutical Measures in the event of its occurrence in the country.  This strategy of suppression is predicated on the overarching concept of  “”blocking the transmission chain of COVID-19” rather than merely focusing on mitigation measures of provision of medical treatment to infected patients. In this respect, the GOE has implemented, prior to and after the onset of the disease, a raft of preventive measures with increasing intensity in response to the situation on the ground.  These measures include the “stay at home” policy that is still in force.  The conscientious role of the Eritrean people has been and remains a critical element in the success of this endeavour. One of the central features of the strategy of prevention consists of putting in quarantine all persons who entered the country through air, sea and land routes.  This was implemented from the outset.  The strategy also incorporates active tracing and quarantining of immediate contacts of those diagnosed positive for COVID-19.  In this respect, 3,486 persons have been quarantined to-date in 70 centers established throughout the country.  Over 2,400 were released subsequently after due processes while over 1,000 individuals still remain in quarantine in 33 centers. In tandem with these measures, necessary medical treatment was given to those diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in appropriate facilities set up for the purpose.  The total number of infected individuals to-date is 39.   All of them have recovered fully and the last patient was released from hospital yesterday. Inspiring as it is, this milestone is not a cause for complacency.  Indeed, there are critical questions that must be addressed. We cannot state, at this stage, that the spread of COVID-19 has been curtailed fully in view of the nature and gravity of the disease, the prevailing global and regional realties and trends, as well as the substantial proportion of asymptomatic cases that may exist at any point in time. In the event, the GOE has decided for the launching of random and extensive testing to gauge the spread of COVID-19 in the country in a comprehensive and more reliable manner.  This endeavour is essential for the full appraisal that will be inferred from detailed and extensive data. In this respect, the first phase of tests will be carried out in several sections of Asmara from Sunday, 18th May onwards.  Towns and villages in border areas, as well as front-line employees in the Ministry of Health and other relevant institutions will also be part and parcel of this first phase testing.  Modalities for subsequent phases of testing will be determined by the outcome of the first phase as well as relevant global and regional realities and trends. In conclusion, the High Level Task Force urges all citizens to maintain the commendable role that they have played so far in the full implementation of the Guidelines, and, to rectify few breaches that have occurred intermittently until the completion of the tests for a solid appraisal of the situation with full certainty.High Level Task Force for COVID-19Asmara16 May 2020

As part of the contribution Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad, national associations, organizations as well as religious institutions and individuals are contributing to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church Holy Synod and employees of the Holy Synod contributed a total of 481thousand and 74 Nakfa. Asmara, 13 May 2020- As part of the contribution Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad, national associations, organizations as well as religious institutions and individuals are contributing to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church Holy Synod and employees of the Holy Synod contributed a total of 481thousand and 74 Nakfa. It is to be recalled that previously the Holy Synod contributed 1 million Nakfa. Similarly, six administrative areas in the Anseba region contributed a total of 56 thousand and 265 Nakfa while social service provisions institutions in the region contributed a total of 201 thousand and 250 Nakfa.Social service provision institution in Dubarwa sub-zone also contributed a total of 40 thousand Nakfa. In related news, Eritrean nationals residing in Khober and Dammam, Eastern Saudi Arabia, contributed additional 20 thousand and 150 Riyals. According to the Eritrean Embassy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, nationals residing in Riyadh and its environs have so far contributed 582 thousand and 950 Riyals to the effort the people and Government of Eritrea are conducting to contain the spread of the corona virus pandemic.

In continuation of the over six million Kroner they already contributed, Eritrean nationals residing in Scandinavian countries contributed additional over 300 thousand Kroner towards augmenting the National Fund to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 12 May 2020- In continuation of the over six million Kroner they already contributed, Eritrean nationals residing in Scandinavian countries contributed additional over 300 thousand Kroner towards augmenting the National Fund to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, YPFDJ organization in Sweden contributed 65 thousand Kroner, PFDJ organization in Jonkoping 15 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Orebro 25 thousand Kroner, Mulue-Wengel Church in Stockholm 12 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Harnosand 11 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Boras 10 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Motala  14 thousand and 600 Kroner, Sinit Sund-Biberi association 10 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Jonkoping 8 thousand and 430 Kroner, Eritrean community in Lulea 2 thousand Kroner, Abore sanitation and nursing home 12 thousand Kroner, association of Eritrean friends in Stockholm 10 thousand Kroner, Gothenburg group against COVID-19 15 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Yarfela-Upland 20 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Onebi 5 thousand Kroner, national committee in Denmark 10 thousand Kroner and 65 children and youth in Norway also contributed 22 thousand and 500 Kroner. Likewise, PFDJ organizations in the Italian cities of Brescia, Milano and Rome contributed 13 thousand Euros, National Union of Eritrean Women branches in Bologna, Brescia, Catania, Firenze, Genoa, Milano, Napoli, Parma, Pizza, Pistoia and Rome 8 thousand and 411 Euros, YPFDJ organizations in Milano, Bologna and Rome 6 thousand and 600 Euros, Eritrean communities in Parma, Rome, Milano, Verona, Bologna  and Genoa 12 thousand and 800 Euros, national committees in Rome and Milano 13 thousand Euros and Media committee in Italy 2 thousand Euros. In related news, the Eritrean community in Kuwait and staff members of the Eritrean Embassy contributed 1 thousand and 462 Dinar, nationals in Djibouti 100 thousand Franc. Eritrean nationals in Angola also contributed 16 thousand and 667 Dollars, cooperative association of Eritreans in Angola 16 thousand and 667 Dollars, Eritreans engaged in various businesses in Angola a total of 92 thousand and 500 Dollars and other nationals in Angola contributed 58 thousand and 660 Dollars. Likewise, 9 Eritreans in Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa contributed a total of 7 thousand and 588 Dollars and 55 thousand Rand while Eritreans in Israel contributed additional 390 thousand Shekels. In the same vein, a number of nationals residing inside the country and abroad have decided that the families renting their houses across the country to live free of rental payment ranging from two moths until the corona virus pandemic is contained.

Various administrative areas, associations and affluent individuals extended financial and material support to disadvantaged citizens in their areas. Asmara, 11 May 2020- Various administrative areas, associations and affluent individuals extended financial and material support to disadvantaged citizens in their areas. According to reports, cooperative association of Algen Camp community and a national who wants his name to stay anonymous as well as owner of Royal Bar contributed a total of 30 thousand Nakfa and sanitation materials to disadvantaged families in their areas while four house owners decided that the 17 families renting their houses to live free of charge ranging from one to three months. The Denden Camp community also distributed food items worth 42 thousand Nakfa to 42 families. Similarly, residents of Merhano and Adi-Qe administrative areas extended food items and sanitation materials to needy families and five house owners decided that 23 families renting their houses to live free of rental payment ranging from one to two months. The residents of Serejeka, Sembel, Mai-Temenai and Paradizo sub-zones, in the Central region also extended material and sanitation products to a number of disadvantaged citizens in their areas while house owners living inside the country and abroad decided that the families renting their houses to stay free of charge ranging from one month until the pandemic is fully controlled. In related news various administrative areas in Dekemhare sub-zone and members of the Eritrean Defense Forces have extended financial and material as well as sanitation materials support to disadvantaged families in their areas. House owners in the sub-zone have also decided a number of families renting their houses to live free of rental payment ranging from one to three months.

Contribution by nationals inside the country and abroad as well as various companies and institutions to fight the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Asmara, 09 May 2020- Contribution by nationals inside the country and abroad as well as various companies and institutions to fight the COVID-19 pandemic continues. According to daily report from the Ministry of Health, the Western Command of the Eritrean Defense Forces contributed 1 million and 250 thousand Nakfa, ‘Cichuan Road and Bridge Group’ Company 80 thousand Nakfa, Zonglu Eritrea Company 27 thousand Nakfa, Chinese Geological Mining Company 100 thousand Nakfa, ‘Chinese Harbor Company’ 72 thousand Nakfa, ZTE Corporation 27 thousand Nakfa, Zang Heng Company 27 thousand Nakfa, Laelai Gash sub-zone 235 thousand and 83 Nakfa, Bushuka water distribution 100 thousand Nakfa, Micro-Credit and Saving Program in the Southern region 56 thousand and 393 Nakfa, and Merhawi Tesfazghi Commercial enterprise 31 thousand Nakfa. Similarly, employees of the Northern Red Sea region central office and sub-zones contributed 371 thousand and 26 Nakfa, employees of Land Transport 8 thousand and 785 Nakfa, employees of Trade branch 5 thousand and 857 Nakfa, employees of Tourism Department 23 thousand and 414 Nakfa, employees of Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare branch 56 thousand 509 Nakfa, employees of Massawa Airport 129 thousand and 246 Nakfa, employees of Mining branch 808 thousand Nakfa, employees of the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment branch  18 thousand and 931 Nakfa and employees of Telecommunication 80 thousand and 840 Nakfa. Likewise, water committee in Shehate administrative area contributed 50 thousand Nakfa, Shambuko semi-urban center 35 thousand Nakfa, Bushuka administrative area 30 thousand Nakfa, vegetables farmers association in Shmbuka 20 thousand Nakfa, Rosa enterprise 15 thousand Nakfa, owners of water distribution trucks 15 thousand Nakfa, Awget community 10 thousand Nakfa, Yirgalem Total 12 thousand Nakfa, association of Eritreans returnees from the UK 10 thousand Nakfa, Emba-Derho Kidane Mihret association 10 thousand Nakfa, and other institutions and associations contributed a total of 41thousand and 642 Nakfa. Various social service institutions in Mendefera also contributed a total of 155 thousand Nakfa.

Nationals inside the country and in Diaspora contributed more than 2 million Nakfa to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 07 May 2020- Nationals inside the country and in Diaspora contributed more than 2 million Nakfa to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, employees of the Ministry of Finance contributed additional 1 million and 600 thousand Nakfa, Total Eritrea private company 150 thousand Nakfa, Staff Medical Unit of the Ministry of Defense 114 thousand and 674 Nakfa, employees of the Ministry of Energy and Mines 104 thousand and 149 Nakfa, employees of Warsa Enterprise 57 thousand and 352 Nakfa, employees of Eritrea-Ireland development cooperation 50 thousand Nakfa, and cooperative association of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 50 thousand Nakfa. Similarly, Onabu’ur administrative area contributed 70 thousand and 443 Nakfa, Demhina administrative area 11 thousand Nakfa, the administrative area and water development of Girme-Barentu 40 thousand  Nakfa,  Shehate administrative area 12 thousand and 897 Nakfa, Ambori administrative area 10 thousand Nakfa, Golagul and Dekemhare administrative areas in Adi-Tekelezan sub-zone 15 thousand Nakfa. Likewise, associations and service provision institutions in Asmara and Anseba region contributed a total of 204 thousand and 200 Nakfa. In related news, Eritrean nationals residing in South Africa contributed 250 thousand Rand, YPFDJ organization in South Africa 100 thousand Rand, staff members of the Eritrean Embassy in South Africa 12 thousand and 791 Dollars, nationals residing in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Swaziland, Namibia and Malawi also contributed 370 thousand Rand while the Eritrean community in Angola contributed 92 thousand and 500 US Dollars. Three Eritrean nationals in the United Arab Emirates who wanted to stay anonymous contributed 255 thousand Durham and Eritrean community members in Riyadh and its environs 200 thousand Riyals. A number of nationals residing in the US, the Netherlands,   in the UK, Canada, Italy, Norway and France have also decided that the families renting their houses in various areas in the country to live free of rental payment ranging from three until the corona virus is fully contained.

Nationals inside the country are extending material support to disadvantaged families with a view to ease their livelihoods with the ‘Stay at Home’ guideline to fight the spread of the corona virus. Asmara, 05 May 2020- Nationals inside the country are extending material support to disadvantaged families with a view to ease their livelihoods with the ‘Stay at Home’ guideline to fight the spread of the corona virus. Accordingly, the Revolution School and the Military hospital in Dekemhare as well as the cooperative association of Division 61 of the Defense Forces extended material and financial support to needy nationals. A number of house owners in Dekemhare also decided that the 31 families renting their hoses to stay free of rental payment ranging from one month until the corona virus epidemic is contained. Similarly, Mr. Mohammed-Saleh Siraj and Ms. Fatma Ismail residents of Mai-Edaga semi-urban center allowed 9 families to live free of rental payment for two months. A number of nationals in Adi-Keih have also taken similar initiatives.

Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad are extending more contribution to augment the National Fund to Fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 05 May 2020- Eritrean nationals inside the country and abroad are extending more contribution to augment the National Fund to Fight the COVID-19 pandemic. According to report from the Ministry of Health, employees of the Ministry of Health across the country contributed 3 million and 311 thousand Nakfa, Hidmona General Trading 1 million Nakfa, the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association (ENWDVA) contributed additional 118 thousand and 343 Nakfa, Dekemhare administration area 132 thousand and 237 Nakfa and Office of Hijah and Umra 100 thousand Nakfa. Similarly, Vision Enterprise contributed 50 thousand Nakfa, employees of Bio-Moleculer Medical Center 42 thousand and 10 Nakfa, Adi-Maelewya 39 thousand and 800 Nakfa, Sabarguma mineral water 30 thousand Nakfa, Hishemle administrative area 26 thousand and 800 Nakfa, residents of Serejeka 21 thousand and 450 Nakfa, Sabrina steel and wood work 20 thousand Nakfa, Heaven export 10 thousand Nakfa, Wara administrative area 10 thousand Nakfa, Mr. Gebreab Girmatsion 10 thousand Nakfa, Kidane Mihret association in Afdeyu, Tsehaflam and Serejeka 10 thousand Nakfa and Aderde water supply 10 thousand Nakfa. Likewise, Metsalu administrative area contributed 7 thousand Nakfa, Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Mendefera 5 thousand Nakfa, Dahlak construction material shop 5 thousand Nakfa, Semhar recreation center in Gahtelai 5 thousand Nakfa, Shebah gold smith 5 thousand Nakfa, Atakelti pepper and spices mill 5 thousand Nakfa, City Center snack bar 4 thousand Nakfa, Lewam restaurant 3 thousand Nakfa and a number individuals contributed 50 thousand Nakfa. In related news six women nationals residing in Nairobi contributed additional 1 thousand Dollars.

President Isaias Afwerki returned home in the morning hours of today, 5 May concluding two-day working visit to Ethiopia.   Asmara, 05 May 2020- President Isaias Afwerki returned home in the morning hours of today, 5 May concluding two-day working visit to Ethiopia. During his stay in Ethiopia President Isaias held extensive discussion with Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed on bilateral cooperation and regional developments of interest to the two countries. President Isaias and his delegation also visited a number of agricultural and water development projects in the Zuway area of the Oromia Regional State. President Isaias Afwerki was accompanied by Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Presidential Adviser Mr. Yemane Gebreab.

The administrative areas of Tselot, Lamza and Adi-Guadad, Central region, extended material support to disadvantaged citizens in their areas. Asmara, 04 May 2020- The administrative areas of Tselot, Lamza and Adi-Guadad, Central region, extended material support to disadvantaged citizens in their areas. The residents of Tselot administrative area extended stable food worth 123 thousand to 240 families while the Ministry of Defense Kehawta office extended support to 65 families. Likewise, 13 nationals residing inside the country and abroad have also decided that the 36 families that have rented their houses in Tselot to live free of rental payment ranging from 1 to 2 months. In related news, the residents of Lamza and Adi-Guaedad administrative areas extended food items and sanitation material to 97 and 75 families respectively and 10 house owners allowed 23 families renting their houses to live free of charge. Eight nationals inside the country and abroad also decided that the 27 families renting their houses in Sembel to live free of rental payment. A number of nationals in Edaga Hamus administrative areas have also taken similar initiative to families renting their houses.

Eritrean Nationals residing in the Scandinavian countries extended additional 1 million Kroner financial contribution totaling 6 million and three thousand Kroner. Asmara, 04 May 2020- Eritrean Nationals residing in the Scandinavian countries extended additional 1 million Kroner financial contribution totaling 6 million and three thousand Kroner. Accordingly, the Norway branch of the National Union of Eritrean Women contributed 100 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Kristiansand 57 thousand kroner, YPFDJ organization in Bergen 35 thousand and 100 Kroner, St. Michael Church in Stavanger 25 thousand Kroner, PFDJ organization in Denmark 29 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Hogdalen, Sweden 20 thousand Kroner, National Union of Eritrean Women in Denmark 15 thousand Kroner, national committee in Denmark 15 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Valden and its environment in Denmark 15 thousand Kroner, Eritrean community in Lund 20 thousand Kroner, PFDJ organization in Lund 10 thousand Kroner, YPFDJ organization in Malme 10 thousand Kroner and women nationals in Almhult in Sweden 5 thousand and 65 Kroner. In related news, Eritrean nationals in Australia and New Zealand contributed additional 30 thousand Dollars totaling 188 thousand and 600 Dollars. Likewise, four nationals residing in Melbourne decided that the six families renting their houses in Asmara and Keren to stay free of rental payment ranging from one to three months.

President Isaias Afwerki and his delegation accompanied by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed visited today, 4 May a number of agricultural and water development projects in the Zuway area of the Oromia Regional State. Asmara, 04 May 2020- President Isaias Afwerki and his delegation accompanied by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed visited today, 4 May a number of agricultural and water development projects in the Zuway area of the Oromia Regional State. The visit was also attended by Mr. Gedu Endargachew, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Eng. Silesh Bekele, Minister of Water, Irrigation and Energy and Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia. The two leaders also held further discussion on bilateral cooperation and regional issues of interest to the two countries.

President Isaias Afwerki departed to Ethiopia, in the early morning hours today, Sunday May 3rd, for a two-day Summit with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Asmara, 3 May 2020 - President Isaias Afwerki departed to Ethiopia, in the early morning hours today, Sunday May 3rd, for a two-day Summit with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.  The two leaders will discuss bilateral ties, the fight against COVID-19 and the threat of locust infestation, as well as regional developments of mutual importance.  President Isaias Afwerki is accompanied by Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Presidential Adviser Yemane Ghebreab.  

President Isaias Afwerki arrived in Addis Abeba for two day working visit to Ethiopia. Asmara, 03 May 2020-  President Isaias Afwerki arrived in Addis Abeba for two day working visit to Ethiopia. Upon arrival at Bole International Airport President Isaias and his delegation were received by Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The two leaders subsequently discussed on bilateral cooperation and regional developments of interest to the two countries. President Sahlework hosted luncheon for the President and his delegation. The former Ethiopian Prime Minister, Hailemariam Desalegn, and, President of the Oromia Region Shimeles Abdissa, attended the luncheon hosted by President Sahlework. President Isaias Afwerki and his delegation also visited some development sites in Addis Abeba. President Isaias Afwerki is accompanied by Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Presidential Adviser Yemane Ghebreab.  

Contribution by nationals inside the country and in Diaspora to augment the National Fund to combat the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Asmara, 02 May 2020- Contribution by nationals inside the country and in Diaspora to augment the National Fund to combat the COVID-19 pandemic continues. According to report, Employees of the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment contributed additional 100 thousand Nakfa, employees of Piccini in Eritrea 100 thousand Nakfa, employees of the National Insurance Corporation of Eritrea 50 thousand Nakfa, Public Tech Service Club 30 thousand Nakfa, Cinema Roma 20 thousand Nakfa, Mai-Wuy private enterprise 15 thousand Nakfa and owner of Electro Light 10 thousand Nakfa. Likewise residents of the 19 administrative areas in Senafe sub-zone contributed a total of 147 thousand and 975 Nakfa. Similarly 35 social service provision institutions and cooperative associations in Asmara contributed a total of 348 thousand Nakfa. According to report from the Eritrean Embassy in Kenya, Eritrean community in Kenya and Tanzania as well as staff members of the Eritrean Embassy in Kenya contributed a total of 100 US Dollars and a national residing in Rwanda who wants to stay anonymous contributed 10 thousand US Dollars.

Nationals inside the country and in the Diaspora are stepping up contribution to bolster the National Fund to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 01 May 2020- Nationals inside the country and in the Diaspora are stepping up contribution to bolster the National Fund to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the daily report from the Ministry of Health, employees of the Central region administration contributed 2 million and 821 thousand and 77 Nakfa, employees of the Gash Barka region, sub-zones and members of the Assembly 864 thousand and 89 Nakfa, Sawa Construction and Development Company 548 thousand Nakfa, affluent nationals in the Golij sub-zone 449 thousand and 427 Nakfa, Gedem Cement Factory 200 thousand Nakfa, fish farmers 200 thousand Nakfa, employees of Sabur Printing Press 140 thousand Nakfa, Asmara Meat and Milk  Products 50 thousand Nakfa, employees of Commercial Bank of Eritrea 50 thousand Nakfa, owner of Universal Dental Clinic 25 thousand Nakfa and Islamic Awkaf Committee in Asmara 10 thousand Nakfa. Similarly, Hadamu administrative area contributed 62 thousand and 570 Nakfa, Tekonda administrative area 30 thousand Nakfa, Gemel car rent 30 thousand Nakfa, Awhune administrative area 24 thousand and 900 Nakfa, Adi-Quala town 23 thousand Nakfa, Moneksaito administrative area 22 thousand and 150 Nakfa, Maitera-Kokebai administrative area 20 thousand Nakfa, Blekat cooperative association 20 thousand Nakfa, owners of mini-buses in Massawa 19 thousand Nakfa, Adi-Gawl administrative area 16 thousand and 890 Nakfa, Serha administrative area 15 thousand Nakfa and Ambeste-Gelaba administrative area 10 thousand and 205 Nakfa. Likewise, Teklu Girmatsion steel and wood work, Timberi Pisa House, Sam garment factory private enterprise, Hebron Restaurant, Hadera and Sons Shoes factory, cooperative association of residents in Adi-Tekelezan, Damera private limited enterprise, Beale Mariam cooperative association in Asmara, ST milk and milk product, Misgina Cosmetics factory and Sipa private enterprise contributed 10 thousand Nakfa each. Moreover, Taxi owners association in Barentu contributed 7 thousand Nakfa, and Amba-Galiano guest house, Solomon Eyasu eye glass shop, Negash sponge factory and Eritrean Chemical Society contributed 5 thousand each while Dan guest house and Al-Rajeh salt production 3 thousand each and Catholic Parish 2 thousand and 500 Nakfa. In related news, Eritrean nationals, staff members of the Eritrean Embassy and members of the National Union of Eritrean Women in Belgium and Luxemburg contributed 18 thousand and 229 Euros. Nationals in the United Arab Emirates, on top of the 1 million 241 thousand and 83 Durham and 3 thousand Dollars contribution they previously made contributed additional 37 thousand and 70 Durham. Other nationals inside the country have also contributed over 500 thousand Nakfa. 

International Workers’ Day, 1 May, was observed in Asmara with blood donation. Asmara, 01 May 2020- International Workers’ Day, 1 May, was observed in Asmara with blood donation. The event was organized in cooperation with 40 youth members of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers (NCEW) and the National Blood Transfusion Center. Indicating on the significance of blood donation in saving lives, the youth participants called on others to follow the noble example and contribute their part in enriching the National Blood Transfusion Center. In the same vein, in a statement issued in connection with the International Workers’ Day, Mr. Tekeste Baire, Secretary General of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers, indicating that the day is being observed at a time in which over 3 million people worldwide are infected and over 200 thousand lost their lives due to the COVID-19, said that over 2.7 billion workers are also compelled to stay at home. The statement released by the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers also stated that the Eritrean workers on top of practicing the guidelines issued by the Government to ‘Stay at Home’ they are also extending financial and material support to the effort by the people and Government of Eritrea to contain the spread of the corona virus. The statement also commended the support the Eritrean people are extending to the disadvantaged citizens. The International Workers Day is being observed for the 29th time at national level and for the 130th at international level.

German Parliamentary Committee: Indecent statement on Eritrea In its deliberations on «economic cooperation with Eritrea» on 22 April last week, the Development Committee of the German Bundestag went out of its way to heap insult on the Government of Eritrea. It went further to issue an offensive Press Release of its ill-informed and misguided proceedings. Why the Parliamentary Committee chose to dwell on this mundane issue at this point in time when the grave danger of COVID-19 is the overarching concern of paramount importance for all countries and peoples in our global community is difficult to understand or decipher. Optics and bad taste aside, what are the facts? 1. The Bundestag Development Committee states that the German Federal Government «does not foresee any chance of bilateral development cooperation» because «Eritrea's leadership rejects any cooperation». The Committee further laments Eritrea's lack of «interest in improving trade relations although it is entitled to duty-free and quota-free access to European markets». In the same breadth, though, the Committee asserts that Eritrea «does not meet the requirements for bilateral German cooperation due to its serious human rights violations». These statements are not only incoherent and contradictory, but they are also at variance with the facts. First off, Eritrea cannot be blamed since it is the German side which has put, in the first place, brakes and preconditions on development cooperation. This new position does not also reflect the agreement on bilateral economic cooperation reached between the two countries when a high level Eritrean Ministerial delegation visited Berlin in September 2016 for fruitful meetings with their counterparts. Secondly, Eritrea maintains both normative trade and development cooperation ties with several European countries. And this was also the case with Germany until the latter abruptly terminated a long-negotiated commercial agreement at the last minute in 2009 due to pressure from the US State Department. The Bundestag Development Committee may have short memories. But this is in the public domain. It was indeed published in the Wikleaks documents. To cut a long story short, Eritrea and Nevsun negotiated, in 2009, commercial loans with the German Development Bank and South Africa's IDC for the capital expenditure of the Bisha gold processing plant. The agreement included off-take provisions for Germany to import copper from the Mining Plant at market prices. When all the negotiations were finalized, the German side withdrew from the consortium because the US State Department leaned on the former as part and parcel of its adversarial position against Eritrea and prevalent policy of scuttling the mining project. In a nutshell, Germany forfeited its commercial interests and credibility at the last minute because it chose or was cajoled to kowtow to overriding US policy on Eritrea. 2.    We can also invoke other unfriendly acts. For now, let us recall Germany's substantial financial/budgetary support to the TPLF regime and its war machinery in all the years while the latter continued to occupy sovereign Eritrean territories in violation of international law and the EU brokered Algiers Peace Agreement. 3.    The Bundestag Development Committee alludes to Eritrean sizeable «asylum applications» in Germany. Here again, the Committee cannot gloss over the EU and Germany's standing policies of enticing the youth/National Service from Eritrea with preferential treatments and other inducements for ulterior political purposes. In the event, the Development Committee's assessment is ill-timed, lopsided and really shallow. A constructive approach would have been the convention of a proper and structured follow-up Ministerial meeting and dialogue between the two countries at the appropriate time. Embassy of the State of Eritrea to The Federal Republic of GermanyBerlin30 April 2020

Nationals across the country are continuing extending support to disadvantaged citizens with a view to ease the burden they could encounter in their daily lives with the “Stay at Home” guideline. Asmara, 29 April 2020- Nationals across the country are continuing extending support to disadvantaged citizens with a view to ease the burden they could encounter in their daily lives with the “Stay at Home” guideline. According to report, the residents of the administrative areas of Hadish-Adi and Adi-Gaba, Areza sub-zone, extended food items and sanitation materials to disadvantaged families in their areas.Mr. Jewani Berhe, a national in Mai-Dime semi-urban center donated his 10 room guest house to the Ministry of Health for use until the COVID-19 is contained. Likewise the residents of five administrative areas in Habero sub-zone and seven administrative areas in Asmat sub-zone in the Anseba region, extended food items and sanitation materials to 70 disadvantaged nationals. Similarly, affluent citizens in Sheib sub-zone also extended similar support to 244 needy nationals in their area. In related news, members of the ‘Duhtum’ Military Hospital in Assab extended food items to disadvantaged citizens in Menkakak and Airori. Several administrative areas and national associations in the Gash Barka region as well as members of the Eritrean Defense Forces in the region have also extended food items and sanitation materials to the needy citizens in their respective areas.

In addition to the 350 thousand Canada Dollars they previously contributed, Eritrean nationals in Canada contributed 125 thousand Dollars. Asmara, 28 April 2020- In addition to the 350 thousand Canada Dollars they previously contributed, Eritrean nationals in Canada contributed 125 thousand Dollars. According to report, the Saskatoon branch of the National Union of Eritrean Women contributed 5 thousand Dollars, Eritrean community in Saskatoon 5 thousand Dollars, Holidays Coordinating Committee in Saskatoon 7 thousand Dollars, National Union of Eritrean Women in Edmonton 5 thousand Dollars, National Union of Eritrean Women in London-Ontario 1 thousand and 500 Dollars, Debre Mihret Medihanie Alem in Toronto 5 thousand Dollars, and staff members of the Consular Affairs contributed their one moth salary. Likewise, family of Mr. Girmatsion Woldegiorgis from Saskatoon and Mr. Tesfagiorgis Kiflemariam from the US decided that the families that have rented their houses in Keren and Asmara respectively to stay free of rental payment until the corona virus pandemic is fully contained. Other nationals from inside the country and abroad have also taken similar initiatives for the families that have rented their houses in several cities in the country to live free of charge ranging from 2 to 6 months. In related news, ‘Mereb’ and Teklu Gebrehiwet mills have decided to provide free service to customers for one month and two weeks respectively while the  tourism service provision institutions and retailers in Adi-Quala extended material support to 120 disadvantaged citizens in their areas.

Several health and education services provision institutions are being put in place in Halhal, Asmat and Habero sub zones, Anseba region, report indicates. Keren, 27 April 2020 – Several health and education services provision institutions are being put in place in Halhal, Asmat and Habero sub zones, Anseba region, report indicates. According to Assistant Eng. Aron Mihreteab, head of projects at the department of Anseba region construction development, 24 million Nakfa investments has been made to construct additional class rooms in elementary schools in Halhal sub urban center, Era and Sheka-Wegret, Asmat Girgir administrative area, as well as in Mezret, Afayun, Habero Tsaeda, Kar’obel and Filfle administrative areas in Habero sub zone. Moreover, 10 new schools and additional class rooms including six class rooms and a dormitory in Keren School for the Deaf as well as a new elementary school for citizens with intellectual and development disabilities are being constructed, Eng. Aron added. Assistant Eng. Aron went on to say that several preschools are being constructed in Hawash administrative areas, Asmat sub zone, Kar’obel and Gerbet administrative areas in Habero sub zone and Kertset administrative areas, Halhal sub zone. He further indicated that 7.5 million Nakfa worth health station that includes maternity rooms, OPD, pharmacy, laboratory and dormitories has been constructed in Kertset administrative area, Halhal sub zone and is ready for service. Documents indicate that there are one health center and two health stations as well as a total of 34 educational institutions including two kindergartens, 8 community preschools, 10 elementary, 6 junior, and two high schools and 6 adult education centers in Halhal sub zone.

Eritrean nationals in various cities of Germany extended financial contribution to augment the National Fund to Fight COVID-19 pandemic. Asmara, 27 April 2020- Eritrean nationals in various cities of Germany extended financial contribution to augment the National Fund to Fight COVID-19 pandemic. According to reports, the Eritrean community in Munich contributed 15 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Tubingen 15 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Stuttgart 16 thousand and 690 Euros, Eritreans in Filderstadt, Leinfelden-Echterdingen 5 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Goppningen 5 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Reutlingen 5 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Falingen 4 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Chris-Esslingen 3 thousand and 500 Euros, Eritrean community in Wipkingen 3 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Ulm 3 thousand Euros, ‘Simur’ association in Stuttgart 2 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Zuffenhausen  2 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Cologne 2 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Chris-Ludwigsburg 1 thousand and 500 Euros, friends in sport in Stuttgart 2 thousand Euros, Eritrean community in Baden-Baden 2 thousand Euros, “Merhaba” women’s cultural troupe in Stuttgart 1 thousand and 10 Euros, members of National Union of Eritrean Women in Dusseldorf 1 thousand and 100 Euros and Eritrean community in Giessen 500 Euros. Likewise, PFDJ groups in Frankfurt contributed 10 thousand Euros, in Kaiser-Slautern 5 thousand and 500 Euros, in Nuremberg 3 thousand Euros, in Stuttgart 3 thousand Euros, in Manheim 2 thousand Euros, in Hamburg 1 thousand Euros and YPFDJ organization in Kaiser-Slautern 300 Euros. The national committees in Manheim also contributed 3 thousand Euros, in Frankfurt 1 thousand Euros, and in Munich 500 Euros. In related news, various groups in several cities in Germany contributed a total of 13 thousand and 490 Euros towards bolstering the National Fund to fight COVID-19 pandemic.