Desert locust swarm originating from neighboring countries of Ethiopia and Yemen has been detected in small scale in some areas of the Northern Red Sea Region. Asmara, 27 August 2020- Desert locust swarm originating from neighboring countries of Ethiopia and Yemen has been detected in small scale in some areas of the Northern Red Sea Region. Indicating that the prevalence of the desert locust swarm in the sub-zones of Gelalo, Foro, Ghinda, Sheib, Afabet and Karora was not beyond expectation, the Ministry of Agriculture branch in the Northern Red Sea Region said that the Ministry has already mobilized the necessary man power and spraying equipment and that integrated effort with the residents and members of the Defense Forces is being exerted to put under control the infestation. Pointing out that the desert locust swarm has been stretched from 70 to 80 hectares of land, Mr. Tesfit Gerezghiher from the Ministry of Agriculture branch in the region said that the swarm is spreading to other areas and that strong effort is underway to put in control the infestation. Ms. Asmeret Abraha, Governor of the Northern Red Sea Region, on her part called on the administrations and the public to conducted coordinated endeavor with the agricultural experts and members of the Defense Forces to put under control the infestation. It is to be recalled that the Ministry of Agriculture had organized training programs for staff members of the Ministry of Agriculture and Defense Forces on controlling desert locust swarm invasion.

Residents of Senafe sub-zone have extended financial and food items to disadvantaged families in the sub-zone. Mendefera, 26 August 2020- Residents of Senafe sub-zone have extended financial and food items to disadvantaged families in the sub-zone. Accordingly, the residents Kisad-Emba administrative area contributed 200 thousand Nakfa as well as food items and was distributed to 50 disadvantaged families. Similarly, the residents of Golo administrative area distributed 10 quintals of grains to 20 disadvantaged families in their area. The Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association branch in Senafe sub-zone also extended food items to 11 of its members. Likewise, government employees in Mai-Mine sub-zone contributed their one moth salary to bolster the National Fund to combat COVID-19 pandemic and 9 thousand and 475 Nakfa in support of disadvantaged families. In related news, members of the Bisha branch of Segen Construction Company contributed 20 thousand Nakfa and affluent individuals in Akordet 50 quintals of grain in support of disadvantaged families.

Owing to the early preparation the farmers conducted coupled with ample rainfall, crops in Logo-Anseba, Gash Barka Region reported that are in good condition. Barentu, 24 August 2020- Owing to the early preparation the farmers conducted coupled with ample rainfall, crops in Logo-Anseba, Gash Barka Region reported that are in good condition. Indicating that the late start of the rainfall had created some concern on farmers, Mr. Ghide Zeragabir, seeds development expert, said that starting from mid July the rainfall season started with vast coverage across the sub-zone and that 90% of crops are in good condition. Pointing out that in the administrative areas of Mekerka and Debri select wheat seeds and about 500 quintals of fertilizers has been distributed to 110 farmers and that has significantly contributed to development of the agricultural output in the areas. Mr. Abraham Hagos, administrator of the sub-zone, on his part said that the farmers have been engaged in soil and water conservation activities as part of the preparation prior to the start of the rainy season. Mr. Abraham also called on the farmers to conduct routine follow up on the situation of their crops until harvest and report to near by concerned institutions in case of observance of pests. In the Logo-Anseba sub-zone about 5880 hectares of land has been cultivated with variety of crops and oil seeds.

In 16 sub-zones in the Central region extensive community based forestation program is being held in cooperation of the residents, members of the Defense Forces and institutions. Asmara, 21 August 2020- In 16 sub-zones in the Central region extensive community based forestation program is being held in cooperation of the residents, members of the Defense Forces and institutions. Indicating that over one million tree seedlings are prepared by the nine nurseries in the region, Mr. Abraham Teklu, representative of the Forestry and Wild Life Authority, said that already 500 thousand tree seedlings have been planted. According to Mr. Abraham, over 200 thousand tree seedlings have been planted in Serejeka sub-zone over 150 thousand in Berik sub-zone, over 100 thousand in Gala-Nefhi sub-zone and 60 thousand in Asmara sub-zone. Mr. Abraham went on to say that the due to the late start of the rainy season the planting program has been delayed and that the program will continue until the end of the month.

Encouraging palm dates cultivation is being conducted in the sub-zones of Sheib, Ghinda and Massawa sub-zones through integrated effort of stakeholders. Massawa, 19 August 2020- Encouraging palm dates cultivation is being conducted in the sub-zones of Sheib, Ghinda and Massawa sub-zones through integrated effort of stakeholders. The report was made by Mr. Daniel Kesete, head of vegetables and fruits farming development at the Ministry of Agriculture branch in the Northern Red Sea region. Mr. Daniel indicated that the palm dates cultivated in the areas of Gurgusum, Dogali and other areas in the vicinity are in good condition and have started production to supply the local markets. Indicating that palm date is a drought resistant and the Northern and Southern Red Sea regions are suitable for the cultivation of the plant, Mr. Daniel said that Eritrea has suitable land and climate to cultivate palm date and commercialize it locally and regionally. With the experience gathered over the years, Mr. Daniel said that Eritrea has a huge potential for date farming and date palm cultivation and is expected to be among the biggest agro-industrial sectors of the country in the future. Mr. Daniel went on to say that as part of expansion of the project, about three thousand seedlings have been distributed to four institutions in the sub-zones of Afabet, Foro, Sheib, Ghinda and Foro and that the Gahtelay nursery center that was established in 2017 is playing significant role in serving as bank of different types of seeds and called on farmers to take advantage of the opportunity in planting the tree in their areas. According to Mr. Daniel, training on pollinating and treatment of palm date trees has been provided to farmers and as a result encouraging result is being registered.

Two newly constructed micro-dams in Adi-Keshi and Adi-Gebru, Central region, were inaugurated on 15 and 16 August. Asmara, 17 August 2020- Two newly constructed micro-dams in Adi-Keshi and Adi-Gebru, Central region, were inaugurated on 15 and 16 August. The dams that have the capacity of holding from 35 to 50 thousand meter cube of water will have significant contribution in ensuring water supply both to the residents and livestock as well as in the development of irrigation farming in the areas. The project coordinators Eng. Abel Woldegabir and Eng. Abraham Daniel commended the strong participation the residents remonstrated during the construction. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Zerit Tewoldebrhan, managing director in the Central region, indicating the significance of the dams in the development effort in general and agricultural development in particular, said that the 124 dams and micro-dams in the Central region have the capacity of holding 74 million cubic meters of water. The residents on their part expressed readiness to expand vegetables and fruits farming and play due part in stabilizing the markets beyond their areas.

Gerset Agriculture Project has created significant opportunity in translating into practice the theoretical knowledge they have acquired in colleges, newly college and other vocational centers graduates indicated. Barentu, 17 August 2020 –Gerset Agriculture Project has created significant opportunity in translating into practice the theoretical knowledge they have acquired in colleges, newly college and other vocational centers graduates indicated. The graduates noted that Gerset Agriculture Project encompasses crop, vegetables and fruits farming activities, livestock development as well as agricultural and animal laboratories and that has helped them gain practical experiences through directly engaging in the activities. According to Ms. ZebibTesfamariam, Plant Science graduate from Hamelmalo College of Agriculture and Mr. Yunus Mahmud, Water and Soil Conservation graduate from Adi-Halo Vocational Training Center as well as their colleagues Ms. Tekleweyni Habte and Ms. Aster Okbu stated that the Gerset project has created opportunity to practically develop the theoretical knowledge they gained in their respective college and vocational training center. Over 400 youth graduates from Hamelmalo College of Agriculture as well as Sawa, Adi-Halo and Hagaz vocational training centers are working in the Gerset Agriculture Project, report indicates.

Exhibition depicting the all processes, modalities and equipment deployed in the comprehensive effort being exerted by the Government of Eritrea to combat the COVID-19 pandemic was organized by the Ministry Health in connection with the graduation of the members of the 33rd round of the National Service and 11th commencement of the Sawa Vocational Training Center. Sawa, 15 August 2020- Exhibition depicting the all processes, modalities and equipment deployed in the comprehensive effort being exerted by the Government of Eritrea to combat the COVID-19 pandemic was organized by the Ministry Health in connection with the graduation of the members of the 33rd round of the National Service and 11th commencement of the Sawa Vocational Training Center. The exhibition was officially opened by President Isaias Afwerki. The event was attended by Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health and other senior government officials and Army Commanders. President Isaias Afwerki also accompanied by Ministers and Army Commanders observed the exhibition organized by the graduates of the 11th round of the Sawa Vocational Training Center. The exhibition depicting the theoretical and practical training the graduates were provided during their two years stay at the Vocational Training Center included showcasing the projects they designed and implemented for their graduation.

The graduation of the 33rd round of the national service and 11th round of Vocational Training Center was held today, 15 August in Sawa in the presence of President Isaias Afwerki, Ministers, senior Government and Army Commanders as well as invited guests and community of Sawa. Sawa, 15 August 2020- The graduation of the 33rd round of the national service and 11th round of Vocational Training Center was held today, 15 August in Sawa in the presence of President Isaias Afwerki, Ministers, senior Government and Army Commanders as well as invited guests and community of Sawa. The ceremony was broadcast live by Eri-TV and the National Radio, Dimtsi Hafash. In his keynote address, President Isaias Afwerki commended the excellence of the graduates in this exceptional time eclipsed by the global threat of COVID-19 pandemic. President Isaias further underlined the primary priority objective of the Government of Eritrea in these trying times remained to upgrade and bolster its all-rounded capacity and effectiveness of the requisite level so as to fully contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as all other communicable diseases. President Isaias further noted that the lesson gained, the expertise nurtured and the equipments procured still remain inadequate in relation to the magnitude of the threat of the vicious global pandemic. Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health, on her part gave elaboration on the strategy of the Government of Eritrea to contain the spread of the corona virus. Col. Debesai Ghide, Commander of the National Service Training Center, also delivered comprehensive report on the activities conducted in the educational and military training process. The event featured artistic performance and military parade by the graduates of the members of the 33rd round of the national service.

The residents of Arbaete Asmara, Central region, have conducted community based popular campaign with a view to redress the environment. Asmara, 13 August 2020- The residents of Arbaete Asmara, Central region, have conducted community based popular campaign with a view to redress the environment. At the popular campaign in which over one thousand people took part five thousand tree seedlings were planted and six thousand hectares of terraces was constructed. According to village administrators and development committees, the residents have demonstrated commendable participation in the popular campaign and called for reinforced participation in the future similar programs. The administrator of the sub-zone, Ms. Alganesh Tiku also commended the participation of the residents.

Financial and material support was extended to war disabled veterans as well as disadvantaged families in Anseba and Southern Regions. Keren/Mendefera, 12 August 2020 – Financial and material support was extended to war disabled veterans as well as disadvantaged families in Anseba and Southern Regions. Accordingly, the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association branch in Anseba Region extended financial support to 364 members in the nine sub zones of the region. The report further indicated that 322 thousand 800 Nakfa was extended to disadvantaged families in Dekemhare-Dembezan, Adi-Tekelezan sub zone and another 5 thousand in Adi-Golagul. Similarly, the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association branch in the Southern Region extended financial support to 11 families of its members and food item support was extended to 77 families in Safira administrative area. Likewise, the National Association of Citizens with Intellectual and Developmental Disability on its part extended material support to 32 members in Mendefera sub zone and 146 thousand Nakfa was distributed to families of the martyrs in Adi-Gawul. In related news, a number of nationals in Adi-Tekelezan, Adi-Keih and Mendefera sub zones have decided that the families renting their houses to live free of rental payments.

Residents of Edaga-Hamus, Serejaka, Berik and Gala Nefhi sub zones, Central Region, extended financial support to disadvantaged families in their areas. Asmara, 11 August 2020 – Residents of Edaga-Hamus, Serejaka, Berik and Gala Nefhi sub zones, Central Region, extended financial support to disadvantaged families in their areas. Accordingly, small scale business owners in Enda-Fras administrative area, Edaga-Hamus sub zone and affluent individuals in Defere, Serejaka sub zone extended over 3 thousand and 52 thousand Nakfa respectively to disadvantaged families in their area. Likewise, over 73 thousand Nakfa contributed by affluent individuals in Adi-Daero, Berik sub zone as well as 65 thousand Nakfa by residents of Zigib, Gala-Nefhi sub zone was extended to disadvantaged families in their area. In related news, as part of the effort nationals inside and outside the country are conducting to augment the National Fund to combat COVID-19 pandemic, Eritrean community in France contributed 48 thousand Euro, Hamdan spare parts 5 thousand Nakfa, and various cooperative associations in Asmara contributed a total of 10 thousand Nakfa.

The Halhal sub-zone reported that effort is being exerted to expand health service provision to the public. As part of the effort the Melebso health station has been equipped with new medical facilities. Keren, 11 August 2020- The Halhal sub-zone reported that effort is being exerted to expand health service provision to the public. As part of the effort the Melebso health station has been equipped with new medical facilities. The health station which provides health service to residents of the administrative areas of Kertset, Rehey, Melebso and Enrekubet is providing regular vaccination programs and laboratory service and is expected to ease the burden of the Keren and Halhal hospitals. Indicating that the health station is equipped with professionals in pharmacy, laboratory and post and pre natal treatment as well as in other medical professions, Nurse Kokeb Abraham said that the number of pregnant women delivering at the health station has increased by 15%, children’s vaccination coverage by 38% and post and pre natal treatment by 27%. Nurese Kokeb went on to say that the residents are also regularly engaged in environmental sanitation activities with a view to control the prevalence of communicable diseases. According to document there are one health center and two health stations in Melebso and Gebeialebu and in Kertset administrative area one health station is under construction at a cost of 7.5 million Nakfa.

Members of the Eritrean Defense Forces, government employees and associations in Gash Barka region are extending financial support to disadvantaged families in the region. Barentu, 09 August 2020- Members of the Eritrean Defense Forces, government employees and associations in Gash Barka region are extending financial support to disadvantaged families in the region. Accordingly, members of the Defense Forces in Haikota sub-zone contributed 27 thousand and 150 Nakfa, vegetable farmers association in Haikota 50 thousand and 600 Nakfa, Government employees in the sub-zone 14 thousand and 663 Nakfa and members of Gash-Setit Agro-Industry 15 thousand Nakfa. Similarly affluent individuals extended food items worth 119 thousand and 216 Nakfa to disadvantaged families while members of the Public Service in Alebu contributed 17 quintals of grain and members of Crops and Livestock Corporation in Fesko and Alebu 14 quintals of grain. Members of the Eritrean Defense Forces in Omahajer and its environs also extended material support to disadvantaged families in the area. In related news, house owners in Haikota, Tokombia and Barentu decided that the families renting their houses to live free of rental payment until the COVI-19 pandemic is fully contained.

Effort is underway to control malaria prevalence in Golij sub-zone. Barentu, 08 August 2020- Effort is underway to control malaria prevalence in Golij sub-zone. Indicating that Golij sub-zone is one of the vulnerable areas for malaria occurrence in the Gash Barka region, Mr. Michael Gebrehiwet, head of Environmental Sanitation in the sub-zone, said that preparation has been put in place to take timely measure in case of the occurrence of the disease. Mr. Michael also called for proper use of impregnated bed nets, conducting sustainable environmental sanitation activities, clearing mosquito breeding areas as well as follow-up the advice given by health experts with a view to control the prevalence of the disease. He also called for immediate report to nearby health facilities upon observing the prevalence of the disease Mr. Michael also said that as pert of the effort to control the prevalence of malaria, awareness raising activities have been conducted and malaria pesticide has been sprayed in 10 administrative areas in the sub-zone. Pointing out that malaria is a killer disease unless precautionary measures are taken, Mr. Ghilai Mosazghi, head of Health Service in the sub-zone, called for reinforced participation of the public and stakeholders.

A training workshop on Brucellosis; and Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) laboratory diagnostic techniques which was held for twelve days concluded on 3rd of July 2020. The core purpose of the training was to edify the trainees on disease outbreak investigation, proper field sample collection, transportation, preservation and laboratory disease diagnosis techniques, confirm suspicions, transportation and packing of biological materials as per their regulation of International Air Transport Association (IATA). During   the   closing   ceremony, Mr. Amanuel Negassi, Advisor to the Minister and board chairman of NAPHL thanked the Food and Agriculture Organization for its timely support and highlighted the importance of the training, for the courses will help trainees in designing and implementing better disease control strategies on Brucellosis and FMD. Dr. Saeed A. Bancie, FAO country representative to Eritrea, expressed his appreciation as the training was conducted with in full compliance with all safety measures of COVID 19. Dr. Bancie also applauded the trainers and trainees for their achievements. The course included, 10 female participants out of 25 experts. The trainees were represented from the National Animal and Plant health laboratory, Regulatory Services Department and Agricultural Extension Department.

As part of the agricultural activities being conducted at the Gerset Agricultural Project, encouraging vegetables and fruits farming is being conducted. The report was made by the coordinators and staff members of the agricultural project. Barentu, 06 August 2020- As part of the agricultural activities being conducted at the Gerset Agricultural Project, encouraging vegetables and fruits farming is being conducted. The report was made by the coordinators and staff members of the agricultural project. According to Mr. Yosief Haile, head of Fruits and Crops Development, the agricultural project is engaged in cultivation of variety of crops, vegetables and fruits farming as well as livestock breeding and so far encouraging outcome is being registered. The head of the Agricultural Project, Mr. Amine Tesfamicael on his part said that the project since its initiation is expanding from time to time both in scope and types of crops and fruits cultivation and commended the active participation of the youth assigned to the project. Mr. Amine went on to say that the Gerest agricultural project will have significant contribution in stabilizing the market across the country with its vegetables and fruits production.

The head of Malaria control at the Ministry of Health, Mr. Selam Mihreteab reported that praiseworthy effort has been conducted to control and eradicate the prevalence of malaria. Asmara, 06 August 2020- The head of Malaria control at the Ministry of Health, Mr. Selam Mihreteab reported that praiseworthy effort has been conducted to control and eradicate the prevalence of malaria. Indicating that as a result of the comprehensive strategy and programs designed to control malaria it was possible to significantly reduce the prevalence of the disease, Mr. Selam said that the infection that was 53 out of 1000 in 1998 has been reduced to 5 out of 1000 in 2004. Mr. Selam went on to say that the infection rate from 2004 on wards has been reduced annually by 9.4% and the death rate from 20% in 1998 to 0.002%. Pointing out that commendable progress has been registered in controlling the disease; Mr. Selam said that the Ministry of Health in cooperation with stakeholders is working to reduce the death rate due to malaria by more than 90% in accordance with the WHO Framework to eradicate the diseases by 2030. Mr. Selam also said that the Ministry of Health is also exerting effort to meet the objective by putting in place the required medical supply and man power. Mr. Selam, in his remark, called on the public to strictly follow up the guidelines being issued by the Ministry of Health as well as to conduct sustainable environmental sanitation activities and proper use of impregnated bed nets.

Expressing profound sadness at loss of lives and injures sustained in tragic explosion in Beirut, President Isaias Afwerki has sent message of solidarity to the people and Government of Lebanon in this difficult times. Asmara, 05 August 2020- Expressing profound sadness at loss of lives and injures sustained in tragic explosion in Beirut, President Isaias Afwerki has sent message of solidarity to the people and Government of Lebanon in this difficult times. President Isaias Afwerki extended Eritrea’s condolences to the families of the victims.

The Ministry of Health branch in the Northern Red Sea region reported that the number of pregnant women delivering in health facilities in the past six months has increased by 10% compared to that of 2019.   Massawa, 04 August 2020- The Ministry of Health branch in the Northern Red Sea region reported that the number of pregnant women delivering in health facilities in the past six months has increased by 10% compared to that of 2019. Mr. Zedingil Gorgorios, from the branch office of the Ministry, said that the Ministry of Health is exerting commendable effort to ensure maternity and child health as well as regular children’s vaccination programs. Mr. Zedingle went on to say that the putting in place a number of waiting rooms in the various health facilities and sustainable awareness raising activities has encouraged pregnant women to deliver at health facilities. Mr. Zedingil further noted that the vaccination coverage has increased in the region by providing due attention to remote areas of the region. According to document from the branch office of the Ministry, out of the 40 health facilities in the Northern Red Sea Region 14 of them have waiting rooms for pregnant women.

The effort to expand eye treatment service in the Southern Red Sea region is registering encouraging result. Asmara, 01 August 2020- The effort to expand eye treatment service in the Southern Red Sea region is registering encouraging result. According to Nurse Gebre Hailemicael, cataract surgery expert at the Assab Hospital, the hospital is performing cataract and other minor surgeries and so far a number of patients have become beneficiaries. Nurse Gebre went on to say that the number of patients that received eye treatment has increased by 100% compared to that of previous year and cataract surgery has been conducted on 60% on them. Nurse Gebre stated that the public awareness regarding health service has reached satisfactory stage and reminded the public to avoid harmful practices that could lead to eye blindness. According to Nurse Gebre, awareness raising program has been organized in which over 11 thousand students took part and eye glasses was provided to 89 students that were found with eye problem.

The Ministry of Health announced that from this year onwards Meningitis vaccination will be included in the category of the 12 antigens. Asmara, 01 August 2020-  The Ministry of Health announced that from this year onwards Meningitis vaccination will be included in the category of the 12 antigens. Indicating that previously 12 types of vaccinations have been provided regularly to children including TB, polio, tetanus, measles, hepatitis, influenza and others, Mr. Tedros Yihdego, Head of National Vaccination Program, said that starting from July this year Meningitis vaccination will be provided regularly and that will increase the variety vaccinations to 13.Mr. Tedros noted that children at the age of 1 and six months should take the meningitis vaccination and urged parents to take their children to nearby health facilities vaccination. According to the document from the Ministry of Health, in 2019 over 2.8 million citizens aged from one to thirty years have taken meningitis vaccination across the country.

The renovation of the Afabet-Keren road by the Northern Red Sea region in cooperation with national construction companies will have significant contribution in improving the livelihoods of the residents. Asmara, 01 August 2020 - The renovation of the Afabet-Keren road by the Northern Red Sea region in cooperation with national construction companies will have significant contribution in improving the livelihoods of the residents. The comment was made by the people residing along the route linking Afabet with Keren city. Indicating that road has been damage due to various reasons including flooding and that has been creating transportation problem to the residents as well as in the unacceptable price increase of consumer goods, the residents said that the renovation of the road will have significant contribution in facilitating their daily lives. The residents also called for the resumption of the transportation buses that were previously providing transportation service.

Eid Al Adha, 1441 Hijiri year, was celebrated yesterday, 31 July. Asmara, 1 August 2020 - Eid Al Adha, 1441 Hijiri year, was celebrated yesterday, 31 July. Sheik Salem Ibrahim Almukhtar, Acting Mufti Eritrea and Secretary General of Higher Assembly of Eritrean Iftae and Islamic Affairs, had called on the faithful to follow the guidelines issued by the office regarding the celebration of the Holiday event. According to Sheik Salem’s statement due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in force on public gatherings, the prayers did not take place, as usual, at public squares, but instead took place in privacy of individual homes of the faithful.Sheik Salem also gave extensive briefing on the background and objective of the Eid Al Adha Holiday celebration. Sheik Salem finally wished Happy Eid Al Adha to the Eritrean people inside the country and abroad in general and to the faithful in particular as well as peace and prosperity to the Eritrean people.

The investment made on education in Foro sub-zone, Northern Red Sea region, is registering commendable result in the development of teaching-learning process. Massawa, 31 July 2020- The investment made on education in Foro sub-zone, Northern Red Sea region, is registering commendable result in the development of teaching-learning process. Indicating that the number of education facilities has risen from 3 to 40 and students’ school enrolment in the past five years rose by 8.5%, the head of education office in the sub-zone, Mr. Ismail Ali said that women’s school enrolment has also registered encouraging result. Mr. Ismail went on to say that new elementary schools have been built in the administrative areas of Umle, Denenlo and Omar-Kabre and one kindergarten in Irafaile. According to Mr. Ismail there are schools in 14 administrative areas in the sub-zone and praiseworthy effort is being exerted to eradicate illiteracy. Document of the Ministry of Education branch in the Northern Red Sea region indicate that out of the 426 schools in the region 80% of them are in remote areas of the region.

Extensive soil and water conservation as well as planting tree seedlings popular campaign is being conducted in Halhal sub-zone. Keren, 26 July 2020- Extensive soil and water conservation as well as planting tree seedlings popular campaign is being conducted in Halhal sub-zone. According to report from the Ministry of Agriculture branch in the sub-zone, the popular campaign includes construction of terraces and water diversion schemes as well as planting tree seedlings. Similarly, renovation of 4 km dirt road linking Halhal with Mai-Awalid is also being conducted. The administrator of the sub-zone, Mr. Girmatsion Abraha said that the popular campaign is in continuation of the various community based activities the residents are conducting and commended the strong participation of the residents. According to Mr. Girmatsion the construction of 17 km dirt road linking Halhal with Melebso, 16 km linking Melabso with Kertset, 15 km linking Kertset with Taba-Aserte and 24 km linking Wesenas with Halhal is underway with full participation of the residents of the various administrative areas.

More financial and material support is being extended to disadvantaged families in the Southern Region with a view to ease the burden they might encounter due to the ‘Stay at Home’ guideline to combat the spread of corona virus. Asmara, 26 July 2020- More financial and material support is being extended to disadvantaged families in the Southern Region with a view to ease the burden they might encounter due to the ‘Stay at Home’ guideline to combat the spread of corona virus. Accordingly, 227 thousand and 640 Nakfa contributed by affluent individuals in Adi-Kenzinab, Adi-Kuala Sub Zone, was extended to 91 disadvantaged families. Likewise, in Dubarwa sub zone, 156 thousand and 517 Nakfa contributed by residents of Tala administrative area was extended to disadvantaged families in their area, another 136 thousand 500 Nakfa was distributed to disadvantaged families in Adi-Ahfera administrative area. Moreover, 102 thousand Nakfa contributed by residents of Adi- Sherefeto, 70 thousand Nakfa by residents of Adi-Tse’nay, 30 thousand Nakfa by residents of Adi-Bezihans and 10 thousand Nakfa contributed by some individuals in Dubarwa town was extended to disadvantaged families in their areas. In related news, a number of nationals inside and outside the country have decided that the families renting their houses to live free of rental payment ranging from one month until the spread of corona virus is contained in the county.

The Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association branch in Orebro, Sweden, conducted congress in the presence of members of the Central Committee. Asmara, 24 July 2020- The Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association branch in Orebro, Sweden, conducted congress in the presence of members of the Central Committee. At the meeting various recommendations were adopted including strengthening organizational capacity, reinforcing participation in the implementation of national development programs and programs of the association as well as recruiting new members. The congress also elected new executive committee members. In related news, the branch association contributed 90 thousand Kroner in support of the Eritrean National War-Disabled Veterans’ Association and 10 thousand Kroner to augment the Martyrs Trust Fund.

According to Mr. Micael Tekie, Director General of Agriculture and Land in the Northern Red Sea region the construction of micro-dams in the sub-zones of Afabet and Ghinda, Northern Red Sea region, is in good progress. Massawa, 22 July 2020- According to Mr. Micael Tekie, Director General of Agriculture and Land in the Northern Red Sea region the construction of micro-dams in the sub-zones of Afabet and Ghinda, Northern Red Sea region, is in good progress. Indicating that the construction of the micro-dams in the administrative areas of Tseret, Mai-Habar, Ad-Shum, Dengolo-Laelai and Hutsit in Ghinda sub-zone has been finalized, Mr. Micael said that the 50% of the construction of micro-dams in Beyen, Mariet and Agrae, Nakfa sub-zone has been accomplished. The micro-dams with the capacity of holding from 30 to 200 thousand meter cube of water will have significant contribution in ensuring water supply both for the residents and livestock as well as for vegetables and fruits farming in the areas. Similarly the residents of the administrative areas are engaged in construction and renovation of terraces and water catchment schemes for the sustainability of the micro-dams. In the same vein, the Ministry of Agriculture is conducting sustainable awareness raising campaigns with a view to increase the understanding of farmers on land management as well as issues related to agricultural development. According to document from the Northern Red Sea region there is over 92 thousand hectares of arable land.

High level Eritrean military delegation headed by Gen. Filipos Woldeyohannes, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Defense Forces, delivered message of President Isaias Afwerki to Gen. Abdul Fattah Al Burhan, President of the Sudan’s Sovereign Council  on 20 July. Asmara, 21 July 2020- High level Eritrean military delegation headed by Gen. Filipos Woldeyohannes, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Defense Forces, delivered message of President Isaias Afwerki to Gen. Abdul Fattah Al Burhan, President of the Sudan’s Sovereign Council  on 20 July. At the meeting, Gen. Abdul Fattah Al Burhan expressed appreciation for the close and all-rounded relation that exists between Eritrea and Sudan. Gen. Abdul Fattah said that the visit of the high level delegation of the Eritrean Defense Forces attests to the strong relations between the two countries and thanked Eritrea for its support during Sudan’s challenging transition period. Gen. Flipos on his part expressed appreciation for the hospitality accorded to him and his delegation. The Eritrean military delegation today, 21 July, met and held talks with First Deputy Chairman of the Sovereign Council of Sudan, Let/ Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo on enhancement of bilateral cooperation in defense and security  issues. The high level delegation of the Eritrean Defense Forces includes Commander of the Central Command, Maj. Gen, Romodan Osman Awliya; Commander of Navy, Maj. Gen. Humed Karikare, and Head of the National Security Agency, Brig. Gen Abraha Kassa. The Eritrean Defense delegation also held extensive discussion with Maj. Gen. Mohamed-Osman Al Hussein, Chief of Staff of the Sudan Armed Forces and included the Commanders of Sudan’s Ground and Naval Forces as well as Army Intelligence. The Eritrean delegation accompanied by the Chief of Staff of the Sudan’s Armed Forces also visited economic institutions, military colleges and military training centers.

Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed and his delegation today, 19 July toured agricultural development projects in the environs of Kerkebet Dam in Gash Barka Region. Asmara, 19 July 2020 – Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed and his delegation today, 19 July toured agricultural development projects in the environs of Kerkebet Dam in Gash Barka Region. The Prime Minister and his delegation were accompanied by President Isaias Afwerki and senior Government officials during the visit. The delegation also inspected, during their stop-over at Sawa Airport, graduation-parade rehearsals of the 33rd Round of the National Service. Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed and his delegation departed home in the later afternoon hours today after a two-day fruitful working visit During the two days working visit, President Isaias and Prime Minister Abiy held extensive discussion focusing on bilateral relations and regional developments and agreed to further bolster the prevailing, all-rounded, cooperation between the two countries. They also agreed to work together to enhance regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa.

President Isaias Afwerki and Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed held extensive discussion today focusing on bilateral relations and regional developments. Asmara, 18 July 2020- President Isaias Afwerki and Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed held extensive discussion today focusing on bilateral relations and regional developments. In their extensive discussion, President Isaias Afwerki and Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed reviewed the progress achieved and obstacles encountered in the past two years in the implementation of the historic Declaration of Peace and Friendship agreement signed between the two countries in July 2018.The two sides agreed to further bolster the prevailing, all-rounded, cooperation between the two countries. They also agreed to work together to enhance regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa firmly aware that this is pivotal for nurturing robust ties anchored on mutual complementarity.Dr. Abiy Ahmed and his delegation accompanied by President Isaias Afwerki in the afternoon hours visited various agricultural projects and infrastructural developments in the Southern region. 

Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed, arrived in Asmara in mid-morning hours today for a working visit to the country. Asmara, 18 July 2020 - Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed, arrived in Asmara in mid-morning hours today for a working visit to the country. President Isaias Afwerki accorded warm welcome to the Prime Minister and his delegation on arrival at Asmara International Airport.The two leaders will discuss further consolidation of the warm bilateral ties between the two countries as well as enhancement of regional cooperation. The Prime Minister is accompanied by State Minister Ambassador Redwan Hussein and Speaker of Parliament Mr. Tagesse Chaffo.        

Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health, accompanied by the Governor of the Northern Red Sea region, Ms. Asmeret Abraha conducted tour of inspection on 15 and 16 July to health facilities in Kelhamet and Afabet town, Afabet sub-zone. Asmara, 17 July 2020- Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health, accompanied by the Governor of the Northern Red Sea region, Ms. Asmeret Abraha conducted tour of inspection on 15 and 16 July to health facilities in Kelhamet and Afabet town, Afabet sub-zone. In the course of her tour, Minister Amina held discussion with heads of the health facilities as well as area administrators. In the discussion Minister Amina expressed readiness of the Ministry in cooperation with the administrations to equip the health facilities with necessary equipment and manpower with a view to enable them provide improved health care service to the public. Indicating that villages regrouping is the foundation of development, Ms. Asmaret on her part called on the residents to strengthen participation in the program so that they become beneficiaries of social service provision institutions. The two officials also visited the progress of the construction of the dams at the administrative areas of Gebgeb and Mihdaf.