ERITREA
Date of establishment: May 24, 1993
Brief history:
Ancient History: The territory of modern-day Eritrea has been settled for thousands of years. It was part of the Kingdom of Aksum from around the 1st century CE, a powerful trading empire that included parts of present-day Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Sudan.
16th-19th centuries: Eritrea becomes part of the Red Sea trade network, influenced by the Ottoman Empire and Egypt. The Ottomans controlled the coastal regions intermittently from the 16th century.
1885: Italy occupies Eritrea, establishing it as a colony known as Italian Eritrea by 1890. Eritrea became a significant part of Italy’s colonial empire in Africa.
1941: During World War II, British forces, along with Ethiopian allies, defeat Italian troops, and Eritrea comes under British administration.
1952: Following a UN resolution, Eritrea is federated with Ethiopia as an autonomous region, with its own parliament and administration.
1962: Ethiopia unilaterally dissolves Eritrea’s autonomy and annexes it, making Eritrea a province of Ethiopia. This leads to the beginning of the Eritrean War of Independence.
1991: The Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF) defeats Ethiopian forces, effectively gaining control over Eritrea. This coincides with the fall of the Derg regime in Ethiopia.
1993: Eritrea formally declares independence after a UN-supervised referendum, in which the Eritrean people overwhelmingly vote for independence.
1998-2000: Eritrea and Ethiopia engage in a devastating border war, primarily over the town of Badme. The conflict results in tens of thousands of deaths and significant displacement.
2000: The Algiers Agreement is signed, establishing a ceasefire and creating a boundary commission to demarcate the border. However, tensions remain high, and the border dispute continues to affect relations.
2018: Eritrea and Ethiopia sign a peace accord, formally ending decades of hostility. The agreement leads to the restoration of diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
International abbreviation: ER
Currency: Nakfa (ERN)
The currency of Eritrea is the Eritrean nakfa (ERN), which is divided into 100 cents. The nakfa was introduced in 1997, replacing the Ethiopian birr, which had been used in Eritrea since the country gained independence in 1993.
The nakfa is named after the town of Nakfa, a significant site during the Eritrean War of Independence, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the Eritrean liberation movement.
The denominations of the nakfa include both coins and banknotes. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, and 1 nakfa. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 nakfa.
Internet domain: .er
Dialing code: +291
Time zone: +3 GMT
Geography:
Eritrea is a country located in the Horn of Africa, on the coast of the Red Sea. It borders Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, and Djibouti to the southeast.
The country has a varied topography characterized by mountains, plateaus, deserts, and coastal plains. The central highlands, which include the capital city Asmara, are a major geographical feature and can reach elevations of up to 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). The western lowlands are predominantly arid and semi-arid, while the eastern coastal plains stretch along the Red Sea, featuring a long, rugged coastline.
Eritrea’s coastline extends for approximately 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and includes the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of more than 100 islands known for their rich marine biodiversity. The country’s diverse landscapes support various climates, ranging from temperate in the highlands to arid in the lowlands and coastal areas.
Highest peak: Soira 3 018 m a.s.l. (9 902 feet above sea level)
Mount Soira is the highest mountain in Eritrea, located in the Central Highlands in the southeastern part of the country.
The mountain is covered with grassland and shrublan and rare species of trees grow there. From the top of the mountain there is a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside.
Climate:
Eritrea has a variety of climates due to its diverse topography and varying altitudes. The coastal region along the Red Sea has a hot and arid climate with minimal rainfall and high humidity. Average temperatures in this region range from 25-35°C (77-95°F) in the cooler months of November to February, and can reach 30-45°C (86-113°F) during the hotter months of June to September.
The central highland region, which includes the capital city, Asmara, experiences a milder and more temperate climate compared to the coastal areas. Winters, from December to February, are cooler with average temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F), while summers, from June to September, are warm with temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). This region receives more significant rainfall, especially during the summer months, which constitute the main rainy season.
The western lowland regions, bordering Sudan, have a hot and semi-arid climate. Temperatures are high year-round, typically ranging from 25-40°C (77-104°F), with the hottest months being April to June. This region experiences some rainfall during the summer months, but it is generally sparse.
The high mountain areas, including peaks such as Mount Soira, experience a cooler climate. Temperatures in these regions can vary significantly with altitude. While daytime temperatures in the summer months can reach 20-25°C (68-77°F), nights can be much cooler. Winters can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 0°C (32°F) at higher elevations, though snowfall is rare.
Fauna and flora:
Eritrea is home to a diverse range of fauna and flora due to its varied ecosystems. African elephants are primarily found in the Gash-Barka region. The Nubian ibex, a species of mountain goat, is common in the mountainous areas, particularly in the Debub and Gash-Barka regions. Baboons, including the hamadryas species, inhabit rocky areas and cliffs, such as those in the Dahlak Archipelago. Leopards are present in some remote areas, such as the Anseba region.
Eritrea’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of bird species, including raptors, flamingos, and waterfowl. The Red Sea coast is rich in marine life, featuring coral reefs and populations of dolphins and sharks.
In terms of flora, acacia species are well adapted to the local conditions and are commonly found in savannas and deserts. Date palms grow in oases, providing a valuable source of food for the local population. Trees that produce frankincense, such as the Boswellia and Commiphora species, grow in the southern parts of the country. Coastal areas are home to mangrove forests, which offer crucial erosion protection and serve as habitats for various aquatic species. Cacti are well adapted to the arid conditions and grow in some desert areas.
Agriculture:
Agriculture is a crucial sector in Eritrea, with the main crops including cereals such as sorghum, millet, barley, and maize. Wheat is also cultivated, along with various legumes like beans and peas.
Cotton cultivation is important, particularly in the lowland areas and near the Gash River.
In the highland regions, fruits such as figs, pears, and apples are grown, although the variety and volume are limited due to the climatic and soil conditions. Grapevines are also present but not as extensively cultivated as in major wine-producing regions.
Livestock breeding is widespread across the country, with cattle, sheep, goats, and camels being the primary animals raised. This practice is especially significant in rural areas, providing a vital source of livelihood for many communities.
Extraction of natural resources:
Eritrea has significant mineral resources, with gold being one of the most important. The Bisha Mining Project, which includes gold mining, is one of the largest and most notable mining operations in the country. Gold mining, along with other mineral resources, is a significant source of income for the Eritrean government. Besides gold, the Bisha mine also produces copper and zinc, and silver is extracted as a byproduct.
While there are some reports of precious stones, such as emeralds, these are not widely documented as major resources in Eritrea. The country’s mining sector focuses more on metals than on precious stones.
Eritrea has abundant salt reserves, which are extracted from surface salt lakes and pans, particularly along the coastal areas. These salt extraction activities are crucial for both domestic use and export.
Additionally, Eritrea has reserves of limestone and dolomite, which are used in construction and cement production. These materials are essential for the local construction industry, contributing to the development of infrastructure within the country.
Industry:
Eritrea’s industrial sector is relatively underdeveloped, but there are some key areas of activity that contribute to the economy. The food industry in Eritrea processes a variety of food and beverages, producing items such as flour, pasta, local cheeses, and other traditional food products.
Textile manufacturing is present in the country, with several factories and workshops producing local textile products, including garments and fabrics. This sector, however, is not as extensive as in some other African countries with larger textile industries.
The construction industry is crucial for Eritrea’s development, playing a significant role in the building of infrastructure and housing. This sector includes the production of construction materials such as cement and concrete blocks, which are essential for the ongoing development projects in the country.
In addition to these sectors, Eritrea has a small but growing mining industry, focusing on the extraction of minerals like gold, copper, and zinc. This industry is becoming increasingly important for the country’s economic growth and revenue generation.
Services and other areas of the economy: –
Natural and historical attractions: Danakil depression, the cities of Asmara and Massawa, the Dahlack Islands, and Qoahito ruins.
Eritrea boasts a rich array of natural and historical attractions that reflect its diverse cultural heritage and unique landscapes. Among its notable tourist attractions are historical monuments, particularly Christian monasteries and churches, which have been integral to Eritrea’s religious and cultural heritage for many centuries. Key historical sites include the Debre Bizen Monastery, located on a mountain near Nefasit, which dates back to the 14th century and is known for its significant collection of ancient manuscripts and religious texts. Another important site is the Debre Sina Monastery in the highlands, renowned for its historical and spiritual significance. Additionally, the Saint Mary of Debre Sina Church is an important religious and cultural site for Eritrean Christians. It is worth noting that while the original Saint Mary of Zion Church is located in Axum, Ethiopia, Eritrea has several important churches dedicated to Saint Mary that reflect the country’s Christian heritage.
Eritrea’s historical and religious monuments are complemented by its natural attractions. The country has a variety of landscapes, including the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of islands in the Red Sea known for their marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The cities of Massawa and Asmara offer a mix of historical architecture and cultural experiences. Asmara, the capital, is particularly noted for its well-preserved Italian colonial buildings and Art Deco architecture, including the iconic Fiat Tagliero Building, an example of Futurist architecture. Additionally, the archaeological sites of Qohaito and Adulis provide insights into Eritrea’s ancient civilizations and trade networks.
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Form of government: presidential republic
Eritrea is a presidential republic with a unicameral parliament. The head of state is the president, who has considerable authority over foreign policy and security and is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Since independence in 1993, Isaias Afwerki has served as the president, and no national elections have been held since then, resulting in no term limits being practically applied.
Legislative power is vested in a unicameral parliament called the National Assembly, which consists of 150 members. However, this body has not been elected since independence and functions largely as an extension of the ruling party, the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ).
Eritrea’s judicial system includes the Supreme Court, regional courts, and community courts. However, the judiciary is not independent and is heavily influenced by the executive branch. Judges are appointed by the president, which undermines the impartiality and independence of the judiciary.
There is limited freedom of speech and the press in Eritrea, and political opposition is not allowed. The government also exercises considerable control over the economy, which negatively impacts the business environment and economic development. This control, coupled with a lack of transparency and accountability, hinders economic progress and deters foreign investment.
Capital city: Asmara
Asmara is the capital of Eritrea and is renowned for its unique architecture that combines various styles such as Art Deco, Modernism, and Colonial. The city is situated at an altitude of 2,325 meters (7,628 feet) above sea level, resulting in a pleasant and mild climate year-round.
Asmara was established as a small settlement and grew significantly during Italian colonial rule, starting from 1889. The Italians extensively developed the city, constructing many notable buildings and monuments that have become landmarks. These include the Asmara Theater, the Cathedral of St. Joseph, the Asmara Palace Hotel, and many others. The city became a showcase of Italian architectural ambition in Africa, earning it the nickname “La Piccola Roma” or “Little Rome.”
After World War II, Asmara came under British administration before becoming part of the Eritrean Federation with Ethiopia in 1952. However, this federation was dissolved in 1962 when Ethiopia annexed Eritrea as a province. Following Eritrea’s long struggle for independence, which culminated in 1991, Asmara became the capital of the newly independent state in 1993.
Asmara’s architectural heritage, especially its well-preserved Italian colonial buildings, has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating its unique blend of architectural styles and its significance in urban planning.
The city has a population of about 1 112 000.
Area: 117 600 km2 (45 400 square miles)
Population: 3 684 000 (2022 estimate)
The main ethnic groups in Eritrea are Tigrinya, Tigre, Saho, Afar, and Bilen. Tigrinya is the most widely spoken and one of the official languages, along with Arabic and English. Several other ethnic languages, such as Afar, Saho, and Bilen, are also spoken in the country.
Islam and Christianity are the two main religions in Eritrea. Christianity is predominantly represented by the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church, with smaller communities of Roman Catholics and Protestants. Islam is widespread, particularly among the Afar and Saho ethnic groups.
The education system in Eritrea includes compulsory schooling for children between the ages of 7 and 13. There are primary and secondary schools available throughout the country, but higher education opportunities are more limited. Eritrea has institutions such as the Eritrea Institute of Technology and the College of Health Sciences, but access to tertiary education is still restricted.
The state health system provides only basic healthcare services. The health infrastructure is limited, particularly in rural areas, and many Eritreans have limited access to advanced medical care. Efforts are ongoing to improve healthcare services and infrastructure, but significant challenges remain.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 1
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- Asmara (2017) – This city is an exceptional example of Italian colonial architecture from 1935 to 1941. Asmara was considered the most modern city in Africa during its time, thanks to its urban planning, which utilized modern urban and architectural techniques.
National parks: 2
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- Semenawi Bahri National Park
- Dahlak Marine National Park
