Vol. 23 No. 100 Wednesday, February 15, 2017 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

A solar energy operated potable water supply project in Ona-Nalai, Central region, worth 5.5 million Nakfa was recently inaugurated. The project includes 7.2 kilowatt solar energy and reservoir holding 50 cubic meters of water besides 3 water distribution centers.

Mr. Zerit Tewoldebrhan, Managing Director in the Central region’s office, said that water shortage was an acute problem for the village inhabitants and called on the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the facility.

The Director General of Land and Agriculture in the region, Mr. Yemane Abai, pointed out that the project is a continuation of the efforts exerted to ensure social justice in remote areas and commended the stakeholders for their cooperation.

Potable Water SuPPly Project

Eritrean Community schools in Kassala region, Sudan, that are providing educational service to Eritrean nationals have made major contribution to the nurturing of national identity besides enabling

The commemoration of the 27th

anniversary of Operation Fenkil from February 10 to 12 under the theme, “Fenkil: Precursor of the Final Phase” was conducted with deep enthusiasm.

In the morning hours of February 11, President Isaias Afwerki laid wreath at Tiwalet Monument in connection with the historic event, while Mr. Al-Amin Mohammed Seid, PFDJ Secretary, Gen. Flipos Woldeyohannes, Chief of Staff of the Eritrean Armed Forces, Ms. Tekea Tesfamichael, Chairperson of the National Union of Eritrean Women, Ms. Tsigereda Woldegiorgis, Governor of the Northern Red Sea region, and Mr. Kidane Woldesilassie Mayor of Massawa city respectively also laid wreath at the Patriots Monument.

The official commemorative

Five villages from Areza semi-urban centre, have donated 83 thousand Nakfa in support of 178 families of martyrs.

Ms. Miliete Tsegai, Administrator of Areza semi-urban centre, said that the support includes cultivating land and building as well as maintaining residential houses.

The Managing Director in the sub-zone, Mr. Tekie Aimut, noted on his part that assisting families of martyrs is the responsibility of every citizen.

Last year the residents of the Administrative areas of Hadish-Adi and Gaba raised more than 230 thousand Nakfa in support of martyrs families.

The 180th anniversary of poet and writer Alexander Pushkin was observed on February 10 here in the capital.

Present on the observance at the Alexander Pushkin Monument were senior Government and PFDJ officials, members of the Russian Embassy and Eritreans who pursued studies in Russia.

The Governor of the Central region, Maj. General Romodan Aweliai, and Mr. Azim Yarkhmedov,

180th anniverSary of alexander PuShkin obServed in aSmara

the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Eritrea, laid wreath at the Monument.

The Russian Ambassador said that poet and writer, Alexander Pushkin has made major contribution in the history of Russian and world literature.

Poems by Pushkin in the Russian language as well as translated versions in Tigrigna, French, German, English and Korean were also presented.

oPeration fenkil commemoration conducted With Patriotic Zeal

eritrean community SchoolS in kaSSala the students maintain attachment with the homeland.

Mr. Nafi’e Osman, Head of Educational services in Kassala region, explained that apart

from academic activities, the community schools have been playing significant role in enabling the students possess clear understanding of Eritrean history and national values.

The schools were established in 2013 with the active involvement of the Eritrean communities in Sudan besides the support of the Eritrean Embassy in the country.

The schools have been offering educational service to a total of 1,500 students in Kassala, Halfa, Shegerab, Wodelhilewn and Girba.

event was also attended by senior government and PFDJ officials, army commanders and numerous citizens in addition to Massawa residents. Speaking on the occasion, the Mayor of Massawa, Mr. Kidane Woldesilasie, underlined that Operation Fenkil is one of the most important historical achievements of the liberation struggle that witnessed the liberation of Massaw. He further noted that the Operation played a decisive role in paving the way for the total liberation of Eritrea.

The General Director of Culture and Heritages in the Northern Red Sea region and Chairman of the Holidays Coordinating Committee, Mr. Siraj Haj, explained the historical significance of Operation Fenkil in the Eritrean peoples’ struggle for independence and called on all citizens to renew their pledge and readiness to boost their contribution

in the nation-building drive.

The event also witnessed the staging of exhibitions, cultural shows and other performances highlighting the historic Operation Fenkil.

donation to martyrS truSt fund

2Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

local media intervieW With PreSident iSaiaS afWerki: excerPtS

Part iv

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Sara Alem Aida Johar continued on page 5

Mr. President, let’s talk about political issues. One of the biggest plans for 2017 has been strengthening the PFDJ. What about plans to strengthen the capacity of the youth? Last year you stated that the constitution was under revision. So which ones are set for short term action?

How we handle these things should be very clear. As regards to the constitution, I’d rather call it a system of governance. It is simply a means for a government to achieve its objectives. It is fundamental to have a structure to achieve it. There must be a very detailed study to evaluate where we started, where we are now and where we are heading to within those 25 years.

It cannot be concluded that all the political processes and developments were disrupted in those years. We have passed through countless obstacles and relentless antagonisms that have threatened the country’s progress and existence. Thus, when one asks the question, “How did we get here?” we should carry out a detailed evaluation. As part of this evaluation we have compiled a detailed record that examines what we have attempted, what we have achieved and what obstacles we have faced for the past 25 years. Next, we must ask, “Where we are now?” in order to evaluate those obstacles that have challenged us and those that we were able to tackle—knowing where we are going is imperative. In this regard, we have prepared a national road map that gives us the broad contours of where we plan to go

“We Will alWayS remain vigilant to Protect our national Security and intereSt againSt any actS of Provocation”

from 2017 and onwards.

Detailing the system of governance, including its form, content, chapters and themes, is not an easy task. The bottom line is that PFDJ is responsible for leading and directing the political process. Throughout the 25 years, it was the Front which was the target of antagonism. Since the ownership of the road map belongs to the masses, political questions of where we direct it for the future or how it should be organized should be discussed and evaluated. Programs covering development, security, safety and other fields have been sufficiently outlined in the road map. The road map also outlines an overall evaluation of the past 25 years, the present moment and the future. It assesses not only our domestic affairs but also those developments that can materialize around our region and worldwide and how we engage ourselves with them and how we make use of the major issues that we experienced in the past.

In order to ensure the exchange of ideas and significant public participation, the road map has been drafted to answer the question of how we work in more organized and concerted fashion. It has been structured into geographic zones, which include our economic, safety and security dimensions and other dimensions. Taking into consideration matters of our border issue and other persistent antagonisms, this kind of arrangement has been prepared in a way that allows us to do our homework for future development as we tackle our challenges.

The road map puts into

consideration four Development Zones. Three are inside Eritrea and the last is international. First, we have the Eastern Development Zone. This area includes the Central, Northern Red Sea and Southern Red Sea Regions. Involved institutions include all ministries, police, security, civic associations and the PFDJ. Second, there is the Central Development Zone, which includes the Central and Southern Regions as well as part of the Anseba Region. It brings together various bodies under its umbrella, including all the ministries, defense forces, police, security, civic associations and administrations. Third, there is the Western Development Zone, which encompasses the Gash Barka Region and some of the Anseba Region. Like in the other zones, this also includes the aforementioned bodies. This kind of organization allows a platform for common points of discussion that isn’t merely concerned with the system of governance and political activities but other national affairs; for more robust national discussion.

Fourth and last, there is the International Development Zone, which covers diaspora affairs for Eritreans abroad. Based on our history—as well as future expectations—this zone, in concert with the ones inside the country, needs a new, way of organizing to play its part in invigorating and revamping the people’s broad participation in the national political process. A higher coordinating body, which oversees this broad effort has been formed under the Central Office of PFDJ. Each development zone

will have coordinators from the bodies it comprises. This kind of organization is needed because without such a measure you cannot undertake political activities and campaigns that are fruitful. At the same time, we also need to have it as a document that checks where we started, where we are now and where we are heading.

Therefore, in order to have a popular discussion over all the matters raised—including the mode of governance—and reach the next national stage of our political system, the PFDJ will be responsible for directing this political process. So when we close a chapter of 25 years and open a new one in the year 2017, the 25 years could be said to have been time for lessons in all kinds of measurement. The lessons we’ve encountered have made us strong and resilient and taught us many things. Therefore this strategy has been set in order for us and our political process to march forward more vigorously.

There is no doubt that its momentum will be quickened beginning from the year 2017. It has been taken as a better option. There is, however, a room for discussion and improvement with popular participation. The details on the implementation of these efforts will be seen in the coming months. In order to ensure the practicality of the programs—given that they are huge—organization is necessary. Being able to assess the past, the present and the future is by itself a sign of consciousness. Since organization and being armed are fundamental in the basic principles of the PFDJ and in the popular fight, they would be part and parcel of the political process. They will be assessed in light of their progress.

The year 2016 saw the foiling of efforts to diplomatically isolate Eritrea from the international community. What opportunities might this positive development create for investment and economic relations?

The question we need to ask is, “Why have we been confronted with diplomatic hostility for 25 years?” The fundamental issue we should always remember is that we have not been chosen to serve the interests of the powerful. It so happened that we earned our liberation at a time when the cold war ended, making way for a new

world order. Attempts to make this new world order and bring all countries into one camp were made by the forces that came out winners in the cold war just one camp, as opposed to the two camps that had existed during the cold war era.

The victors, like Washington, claimed the world as exclusively theirs predicting that they would control its resources for some fifty years undeterred by any rival powers. To this end, they divided the globe into regions, or “spheres of influence”, and elected a government in every region that could advance their interests. The Ethiopian regime has been selected for the job in our region.

Following Eritrea’s independence, there was a feeling that our liberation coupled with the end of the cold war era would provide us with a new opportunity to collaborate with peoples of our region including Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Kenya and Uganda to create conditions for bilateral and multilateral cooperation. But that was not to be since the big powers had their own designs. Our region’s proximity to the Middle East and its natural endowments subjected it to fall within a ‘sphere of influence’ and, therefore, the need for the recruitment of a regime that would implement the agenda of the powers that be. The problem begins right there.

Ethiopia was selected to be the agent in our region and we were condemned to be cornered. This is the current world order—one regime assigned by the big powers leads the region and other countries are supposed to fall in line. Any attempt to disobey or challenge the new order is viewed as a behavior that should be “neutralized.” Eritrea was accused of not complying with the order, and a policy was designed that has aimed at destabilizing our country through diplomatic, political, economic and military machinations for the last 25 years.

Soon after Eritrea’s independence, border issues with Yemen regarding the Hanish Islands, which had never been raised with Ethiopia when Eritrea was under its rule, began to surface. Why was the border issue with Yemen raised? This was done to bring about instability in Eritrea and put its people and its government in an ongoing quagmire.

3Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Semhar Mebrahtu

If law is going to have a real power to govern, it should never be static. It has to be updated in a timely fashion, commensurate with the developmental stages of society. Until recently, Eritrea has been using the Ethiopian codes that were codified in the 1960s, which collectively comprised the “transitional code”. But today’s Eritrea is not the same as the 1960s’ Eritrea. Therefore, Eritrea has proclaimed new codes which reflect its way of life and norms. The new codes give the Eritrean people a sense of ownership of their legal system. They have also taken stock of the customary laws, which were equitable and comprehensive but prevented from evolving and modernizing due to colonial rule. The drafting process of these laws took several years, and required by profound research and examination of relevant customary laws and universally recognized legal principles and norms. The exercise only involved professional legal experts and extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders in the country.

This article will focus on the penal code to demonstrate some of the reforms introduced, the penal code deals with issues of crime and detention and governs actions that influence the interest of the state. Under the previous transitional penal code, there were some positive stipulations

Public Awareness for a Refined Legal System

but the sentencing procedures were uncertain. This is because of a huge sentencing gap. For example, according to Article 630, whenever someone commits the crime of theft, the punishment does not exceed five years. So someone who is accused of theft could be sentenced for one year and someone else who has committed the same kind of crime might be sentenced to up 5 years.

Another example comes from Article 27/522 of the transitional penal code regarding homicide. The transitional penal code states that punishment ranges from five years to life imprisonment. So if there are two criminals accused of attempted homicide, one of them could be sentenced to 15 years and another one could be sentenced to 6 years. Their year of imprisonment is at the mercy of the judge who decides their case. Though the word of law is supposed to have the greatest power in deciding cases, the inconsistencies and large sentencing gap in the transitional code resulted in injustices. The new code addresses these issues and has come up with clear sentencing procedures, narrowing the gap of punishment to 3 years.

According to Article 328(1) (g) of the new penal code, theft of property of an amount exceeding 5 million Nakfa is punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than 13 years of imprisoment. In this case, the judge start by stating that the

maximum years of punishment and then consider mitigating circumstances that allow for his punishment to be reduced to 10 years. Conversely, if he has an aggravating circumstance, his punishment can be raised by 3 years only. Regardless of how many aggravating circumstances he has, the maximum punishment the judge can impose 13 years. Therefore, a narrow sentencing gap doesn’t put the criminal under the mercy of the judge , promotes greater rule of law, and plays a critical role in fostering human rights and development in the country.

It is important to note that in this process, customary law provided a useful reference point. There was a long debate among the legal

professionals who were working on the reform to identify the laws of other countries which most resemble Eritrea’s way of life. But it was such a surprise to find a detailed list of crimes with their specific and detailed punishment in Eritrea’s own customary law. For example, as per article 538(2) of the transitional penal code of Eritrea, cases of maiming the body or loss of one of the essential limbs or organs are punishable according to the circumstances and gravity of the case, with rigorous imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or simple imprisonment of not less than one year. So the difference between the loss of one tooth versus 3 teeth is not clearly stipulated.

However, according to the customary law of Dembezan, the loss of each tooth incurs 30 fergi (Nakfa) fine, which means that the loss of three teeth incurs 90 fergi. There are also different punishments depending on the kind of weapon used in the offence, type of injury sustained, and circumstances under which the offence was committed.

It is easy to assume that customary law is backward and underdeveloped. But the examples cited demonstrate how farsighted our ancestors were, despite their lack of formal, modern education. It also demonstrates that the customary law was superior to

some parts of the transitional penal code of Eritrea and provided critical guidance on reform.

It must also be understood that highly developed laws are useless if those laws are not respected by people.as the people are the main stake holders served by the law they should know what the law says about each aspect of their life. Thus, it is critical for the Eritrean people to feel a sense of ownership of these laws such that they are obedient to the law.

Therefore, the Ministry of Justice is investing great effort in public participation and awareness campaigns to introduce the new codes before they come into effect. Regular discussions have already begun in this newspaper and there are also plans for the new laws to be broadcasted through radio and TV. All in all, a lot of effort has been made by the Ministry of Justice for the general awareness of the people about the laws.

Eritrea is working to bring the people and the law together.The hope is that the aforementioned measures will not only help guarantee peace and security but also improve the lives of all the people. In the near future, we expect to see a more prosperous Eritrea by advancing the people’s struggle for justice and human rights through efforts to update the legal code of the nation.

Eritrea`s priceless shades of pastTsegai Medin

Cultural Heritage is an expression of the ways of living developed by a community and passed on from generation to generation, including customs, practices, places, objects, artistic expressions and values. Cultural Heritage is often expressed as either Intangible or Tangible Cultural Heritage (ICOMOS, 2002).

Eritrea`s ancient history is markedly very complex and this could be due to geo-strategic location a wide variety of landscape and favorable habitat within the Horn of Africa. Having more than 1200 kilometers long coastal territory in the Red Sea, the country topography is represented by the low-lands arid and semi-arid areas, highlands escarpments with a fertile land and favorable environment. This part of the Horn of Africa has been a magnet to life millions of years ago. For example, the land of the present day Eritrea attracted large mammals from the Arabian land about 27 million years ago. This time-frame represents a portion of African mammal evolutionary history, which is substantially unknown to science.

Twenty million years later, the Eritrean Danakil (as part of the extended African Rift valley), became home to our human-related ancestors. This geological time-frame is indispensable to our understanding of human evolution in Africa. The Land of Eritrea has a striking importance in understanding the evolution of African ecosystems during the Pliocene and Pleistocene, that is, 6-7 million years ago. The evidence of this is known from the Engel Ela - Ramud Basin in the Danakil Depression of Eritrea, a place which is less than 500 km far from where Lucy, an almost complete fossil evidence of Australopithecus afarensis, was found 40 years ago.

In Eritrea, the first ever evidence

related to our direct ancestors is coming from the sites of Buia in the Northern Red Sea Zone, 31 km far from the Gulf of Zula. The sedimentary deposits that preserve the fossil specimens of our human

ancestors and the large mammalian fauna are dated to around 1.0 million years. Amongst these the most prominent localities include: Maebele, Dioli, Aalad, Aalad-Amo, Mulhuli-Amo…etc. These are the most prominent localities with the evidence of well preserved fossils of humans and other large mammals. However, the discovery of the complete human skull (~1.0 million years old) from Aalad (also called Homo-site) was an exceptional scientific breakthrough. To date, evidence of a complete skull of Homo between 1.4 million years to 650,000 years is scarce in Africa. This unique fossil finding from Buia filled the gap between Homo erectus (1.4 Ma) and Homo heidelbergensis (0.65 Ma). About 1.0 million to 200, 000 years the Danakil part of Eritrea was populated by our ancestors and large animals, and by about 125, 000 years they adapted to the coastal and maritime environment of the Red Sea. Our ancestors lived in this region of our land millions of years back and their evidence is well documented on the continental and coastal landscapes of the extended Danakil depression.

The subsequent historic event is roughly represented by the evidence of rock art. Rock arts are human-made markings placed on natural stone and reflect humanity’s cultural, cognitive, and artistic beginnings. It further shows the emergence of symbolic behavior of humans before the advent of writing. Evidence of rock art is well documented across the country and amongst these, the most prominent sites include: Adi-Alewti, Iyago, Karibosa, Saro, Mai-ainei, Quarura. The Eritrean rocks are generally represented by figures of animals (zoomorphic), human (anthropomorphic) and geometric styles and represent various levels of social information, like resistance, agriculture, art… etc.

Thereafter, ancient history of Eritrea is represented by different dynamisms of historic events. These include the emergence of complex agro-pastoral societies and also the urban civilizations on the highlands and lowlands of Eritrea. Eritrea is also the birthplace of ancient and socio-

culturally highly diversified civilizations in the region. The Medieval Period is among the most intricate slices of our historic records. This period encompasses the introduction and foundation of the leading religions in our region Christianity entered Eritrea around 4th and Islam 7th century.

The recent history of Eritrea

is primarily linked to the unprecedented struggle for liberation, preceded by desolate and successive colonial times. This represents the dark and centuries- long colonial rules and their colossal impact. The gallant Eritrean people opposed the dominance and successive colonial oppressions. This is labeled as our Recent History, a history bounded in hardship, resistance and solidarity throughout time.

Eritrea has experienced a rich and

diverse history filled with intense periods of difficulty. Present day Eritrea with its diverse culture, is not by any means an overnight creation! The process of the historical evolution of our society started over millions of years ago from the cradle of humanity as evidenced by the fossil legacy of our ancestors.

In the last 25 years, much effort has been made to document, preserve and understand the complexity, density and condition of our cultural heritage resources across the country. Likewise, it is worth remembering that a huge part of our cultural heritage is still totally unknown and far from speculation, Eritrea`s ancient history is not well researched and totally unknown to many. Bearing in mind its indisputable significance and its contribution toward nation building, the Eritrean government has been making huge and continuous efforts aimed at safeguarding the irreplaceable heritage resources of the country.

For more than two decades, the National Museum of Eritrea (NME) has been the sole responsible government body with the mandate to preserve, document and research the tangible Cultural Heritage across the country. However, a couple of years ago, the Eritrean Government established a new

Rock arts: symbolic behavior of humans

Around 1.0 million years old Human Cranium from Buia (Eritrea)

The underground trenches of Naqfa

The central office of the National Museum of Eritrea (NME)

Commission (The Commission of Culture and Sport) with the aim of harmonizing and assembling different institutions that were actively working on Culture and Sport-related activities.

The Commission of Culture and Sport started assembling

different institutions and assigned representatives to the six regions of the country. Furthermore, it strengthened the human resource capacity of the six regions by assigning young graduates (archaeologists and

continued on page 6

4Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

5Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

local media intervieW With PreSident . . .continued from page 2

But the problem was resolved at the court. When you look at the court ruling and all the proceedings, however, you realize that it was all a ploy. In any case, we went past this and the Badme “dispute” ensued. How did this come up? It wasn’t because there was a border dispute, a political problem or a conflict between the Eritrean and the Ethiopian people. It was meant to be used as a pretext for intervention by creating a crisis in the region. By creating a crisis the big powers find an excuse to “manage” the crisis in a way that serves their ulterior motives. And their biggest achievement is that they were able to create a conflict between Eritrea and Ethiopia, which allowed them to pursue their agenda of managing the crisis. The border conflict was settled by international arbitration but the verdict did not apparently satisfy them. Had the decision of the court been implemented there would have been stability in our region. All kinds of excuses have been used to prevent the implementation of the decision. The aim is to keep Eritrea, its people and its government hostage and in constant unrest.

Then came the Djibouti case. Where did it come from? Had there ever been any border dispute with Djibouti? When this failed to satisfy them, they brought sanctions against us. Since then, the economic pressure put on our country is unbelievable. Attempts were made to destabilize Eritrea’s economy through speculation, by setting hurdles to deter Eritreans in the diaspora from sending remittances to their families and by encouraging young Eritreans to flee their country and migrate to the West.

When the sanctions imposed on us in 2009 did not meet its designers’ goals, human rights was used in 2016 to condemn Eritrea. Meetings were organized in Geneva and later in New York with an attempt to pass on resolutions to denounce Eritrea. In short, the border issues and the economic challenges we have been encountering as well as all the attempts to alienate us demonstrate the provocation we have had to withstand in the past 25 years.

Although the utter desire to dominate and create spheres of influence has made Eritrea a victim, the design itself did not necessarily target Eritrea. The sphere extends from Afghanistan to Somalia and includes Libya and Yemen. We might have become victims because we happen to be

located within the region. But did the design to dominate through diplomatic, economic and political provocations and by imposing psychological and security pressures work?

The crisis in our region is the direct result of the misguided policy. For 25 years, attempts have been made to create a unipolar world with one dominant ideology, a design rooted in the writings of intellectuals like Fukuyama, but it didn’t work in our region or in the world. For the plan to work, the ruling powers of our world have been trying to “contain” anyone who challenges them. Their efforts to contain Russia and China in terms of diplomacy, politics and security did not bear any results. And the regime elected to serve as an anchor in our region is now in “intensive care,” struggling to survive.

All kinds of provocations can be said to have failed. Of course, this doesn’t mean it is over. We will always remain vigilant to protect our national security and interest against any acts of provocation.

Mr. President, how do we assess the investment potential in Eritrea and the experiences associated with promoting the investment opportunities in the country?

There are a number of factors associated with investment. Fabricating hurdles that are designed to discourage investment in Eritrea was part of the conspiracy masterminded to undermine our economy. The World Bank, the IMF, the European Union and the like were supposed to play a positive role in facilitating investment and economic development in Eritrea. However, there were serious fabricated investment barriers related to many sectors of our economy.

Fortunately, what has been achieved with the available resources is commendable. Besides, it is not sensible to be unnecessarily dependent on external support and foreign investment in the course of realizing development goals. From our experience in the last 25 years, the resources required for recovering a devastated national economy are undeniably huge. More importantly, the psychological pressure of the conspiracies targeting our economy cannot be underestimated. With regard to the process of demonizing Eritrea, the country was being depicted as a patch of hell on earth in order to instill a negative image of the nation not only in the minds of investors but also in the

minds of lay persons who want to know something about Eritrea. The conspiracies against Eritrea are inseparable from the broader global and regional changes that different societies are experiencing. Of course, when compared to what has happened to other societies in our region, the conspiracies against our economy are futile.

However, the conspiracy targeting our economy is not the single factor that negatively affects investment opportunities in the country. Hence, it is important to assess the efforts, particularly our infrastructural projects, aimed at creating an enabling environment for investment. Sustainable water supply systems, sustainable power supply systems and the like are prerequisite conditions to successful investment. Such critical investment factors are the most important determinants of investment decisions. Compared to the aforesaid infrastructural concerns, even having favorable investment proclamations and guidelines is only secondarily important.

In our attempt to promote investment, we are not concerned about hiring promotion agents to conduct campaigns and subsequently glorify the opportunities available in the country. We believe what matters more is what we do to improve our infrastructural situation, which is critically important in the course of promoting investment opportunities. When judged in terms of peace and security as well as lack of corruption, there are favorable conditions for investment in Eritrea.

While the demonization campaigns may take time to fade away, eventually truth prevails. For this reason, now many are aware of the reality in Eritrea. We invite

everybody to come and see, and then make a judgment about the situation in the country. Otherwise, we will not hire at all any agent for promoting in order to glorify our investment opportunities. While we believe that we have a long way to go, we have created a stepping stone with respect to promoting investment opportunities that can attract investors.

On the occasion of New Year (2017), you sent letters to different heads of states concerning the need to lift the sanction against Eritrea and about the need to end the occupation of sovereign Eritrean territories. In relation to the diplomatic developments that you have been talking about, what are we going to expect in 2017 about these issues?

One of the major issues raised in relation to what I have been talking about previously is related to human rights. In 2016 in particular, there were untold campaigns about human rights. This is not the real issue of concern. Rather, it is just a cover-up. This issue is not an Eritrea-specific issue. Hence, it has to be dealt with taking into account the broader context. We are not the only victims and our case is subset of a larger picture. Therefore, what I sent to different leaders reflects such major concerns.

While the agenda of the Ethiopian government may be looked at separately, when it comes to such issues, the people of Ethiopia have been the main victims in the last 25 years. Consider what the people of Somalia suffered within the last 25 years. In the last 26-27 years, Sudan has also been divided into two and still there are serious problems that have not been so far solved. Our problem is just a subset of this bigger picture. Consider what is happening around the Red Sea

in general, that is, in areas such as Libya, Egypt, and other areas. All these are important issues that need to be addressed properly.

As stated earlier, the border issue and the sanction against Eritrea has to be dealt with within a broader context. For this purpose, whenever there are political forums or in the interactions with political actors such as the permanent and the rotating members of the Security Council, we need to assertively indicate how harmful such injustice is and the need to address such concerns collectively. If these issues in general are addressed, the problems we experience in Eritrea will also be solved as they are not separable. We often talk about these issues because they are useful reminder that take into account the fact that the events may fade away from the memory of some people. There is also a possibility that some may be influenced by the cover-ups, such as fabricated human rights charges, intended to cover up real motives of those who masterminded sanctions and human rights-related conspiracies. Therefore, we need to continuously remind the UN General Assembly, members of the Security Council, heads of states and other actors about the nature of the problems we face.

Further, there may also be new leaders who need to be informed about the real facts behind the issue so that they cannot be misled by the cover-ups characterizing the conspiratorial campaigns which place more emphasis or negatively capitalize on fabricated human rights charges as a pretext. Moreover, heads of states have to play a significant role in addressing the aforementioned challenges. We should collectively fight the rule of the jungle. These problems cannot be addressed separately. A collective approach is necessary to tackle these challenges.

6Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

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Administration Provide• the necessary input to Supervisor for the preparation of a daily and weekly activity report for submission to the HR Supervisor.

Assistance• with the update a monthly folder of all flight bookings – travel requests tickets issued and payment records.

Ensure• that all tickets are scanned electronically and filed as well as a copy placed on record of all flights booked.

Ensure• that the monthly folder is continuously updated to reflect flight bookings together with the activities.

Provide• input to assist with the preparation of a report to the Executive Secretary on weekly basis to reflect the ‘whereabouts’ for Inbound and Outbound employees.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLSQualifications:Diploma or Certificate in Secretarial Science and Office Administration ManagementKnowledge and Experience:4 Years’ experience in Administration 2 Years’ experience in NGO will be an advantageTechnical Skills Behavioural SkillsComputer Literacy (MS Office – Intermediate) Communication

(English and Local language)

Attention to detail Assertiveness Report writing skill Interpersonal

RelationsKnowledge of Policies, Procedures and Processes pertaining to responsibility of work area

Ability to meet deadlines

Legislation knowledge Accuracy Business Communication skills Confidentiality Administrative skill Integrity/Business

EthicsAbility to work under pressure

General Information and other requirements:Place of Work• : Asmara Salary: • As per Company salary scale.Type of contract Indefinite •

Additional requirement for Nationals: Having fulfilled his/her National Service obligation and provide evidence of release paper •from the Ministry of Defense. Present clearance paper from current/last employer.•Testimonial documents to be attached (CV, work experience credentials, a copy of your •National Identity Card etc.).Only shortlisted applicants would be considered as potential candidates for an interview.•Application documents will not be returned to sender.•All applications should be sent through the post office.•Deadline for application: 10 days from the day of publication in the Newspaper.•

Address: Please mail your applications to;• Bisha Mining Share Company, P. O. Box 4276 Asmara, Eritrea

Note to non-Eritrean applicants: • Please send a copy of your application to Aliens Employment Permit Affairs, P. O. Box 7940 Asmara, Eritrea.

Evidence of Eritrea`s Medieval Period: The Monastery of Enda-Yohannes (Tedrer) and Sahaba Mosque

Eritrea`s priceless...continued from page 4 continued from page 8

A Chat with a Legend...

club I sponsor. It is a first division club. It’s a well-organized team which makes great scores at different competitions.

Of today’s Eritrean cyclists.

I had always believed that we were going to be great in cycling. And I was right. We naturally have the talent and strength. The cyclist we have are strong and talented, they are lucky they have all the support of their government and former athletes. We are capable of becoming world champions. However, for us to achieve this goal, we need great trainers to bring out the best in our athletes. Not only that, but the athletes should be well educated about the technicalities of a cyclist. That way we can be the best.

I heard you are still ridding.

Yes. It is better for me to ride a bicycle than to walk. I am 69 years old now, I still ride my bike to travel around Eritrea, whether Keren or Massawa. There are

competition that are held for the above 55 years, I win the contests now and then which means I win over people who are younger than me by years. Last year, I was a champion for a district competition.

Of your personal life…

I am married to a beautiful Italian lady Liya, and am blessed with three children.

Are any of your kid’s sportspersons?

No they are not. They had the talent but they don’t have the will to be cyclist. They don’t like it and I never force them to be.

What is bicycle to you…?

It is my wife, my sister and my friend. Period. I was born to be cyclist.

Any last words?

Thank you for having me on your page. I just want to remind young athletes to be great at what they do and make Eritrea be the champion of the world.

anthropologists) from the College of Arts and Social Sciences in Adi-kieh. As an extension program, the Commission conducted intensive training programs mainly for the appointees of the six regions. In general, whilst the assembling process is continuing the results of promoting our valuable Cultural Heritage through extensive training and awareness campaigns is advancing. For example, as part of these campaigns, the Ministry of information (MOI) is extending its readiness to exert this vital and

propitious program.

The MOI in collaboration with the Commission of Culture and Sport, the National Museum of Eritrea and other government stake-holders is instigating media awareness campaign. Awareness giving research papers related to the ancient history of Eritrea will be periodically published on the state newspapers (Eritrean Profile, Haddas Ertra, Eritrea Alhaditha and Eritrea Haddas). Moreover, the MOI will broadcast similar programs on Radio and TV, probably in several languages. Furthermore, short video

documentaries will produced by concerned institutions to be broadcast to deliver the righteous heritage of the nation.

In The organizers welcome knowledgeable volunteers to contribute their part in this part of Nation building. The expected contributions may include articles, and scripts for Radio and or TV programs in any languages to promote our Cultural Heritage. This extensive campaign to educate the general public and play a role in strengthening the solidarity and unity of the citizens both within and outside the country.

7Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTBisha Mining Share Company is inviting applicants for the following positions for Bisha site project.

HME1. Auto electrician Number required – (01)Type of contract – Definite period (two Years)

Major Duties and responsibilities.

• Planning

Followso the “Planned Maintenance Schedule”.

Implementation• of the PlanIdentify the highest priority for each day and focus on completing relevant o tasks.

Ensures good housekeeping.o

Carries out actual maintenance and repairs of Workshop in an efficient and o effective way in order to minimize downtime. Makes use of Electronic Technical (Cat ET) system to diagnose problems.

Performs regular inspections in order to detect potential problems before they o cause breakdowns.

Minimizes downtime by ensuring the best techniques are being used to repair o breakdowns.

Ensure safety requirements are fulfilled at the work place, including leading o Field Level Risk Assessment (FLRA) and proper use of the appropriate PPE. Report any safety issues/incidents.

Comply with mine’s cardinal rules and other safety, environmental or other o rules and standards as directed. Identifies any hazards in the work place.

Conducts preventative maintenance on the Workshop by checking the o following; circuit & wiring diagrams, sketches, operation manuals, manufacturer’s instructions and engineering specifications. Troubleshooting malfunctions.

Carries out “Fault finding” by using relevant testing instruments.o

Removes defective parts and examines form and texture of parts to determine o causes of failure.

Determines changes in dimensional requirements of parts by using relevant o measuring instruments.

Understands and is familiar with basic auto electrical systems.o

Attends technical and other training as required by supervisoro

Writing Reports & Data Control•

Compile daily; progress auto electrical reports as requested.o Qualifications:Formal Trade for ( Auto electrician)Grade 12

Knowledge and Experience: 3 - 5 years relevant experience

Technical Skills Behavioural SkillsComputerLiteracy(MSOffice–Intermediate, )

Communication (English)

Attention to detail AssertivenessAnalytical skill Interpersonal RelationsElectrical experience IntegrityProblem solving skill Prioritizing skills & multi-skilling

Ability to work towards strict deadlinesHigh level of accuracyDiscretionSelf-motivation

HME Boilermaker Supervisor 2. Number required – (01)

Type of contract – Definite period (two Years)

Major Duties and responsibilities.

Planning• Responsibleo for forecasting and planning of Boiler making maintenance and repairs of all allocated Equipment.Makeso use of “Planned Maintenance Schedule”. (Planned Task Document Observation).Trackso the use of maintenance and repair parts and orders accordingly.

Implementation• of the PlanIdentifyo the highest priority for each week and focus on completing relevant tasks.Ensureso good housekeeping.Ensureso “Boiler making/welding/fabrication” maintenance and repairs of HME equipment are carried out in an efficient and effective way in order to minimise downtime, possibly effecting production.Performso regular inspections in order to detect potential problems before they cause breakdowns.Controlso downtime by ensuring the best techniques are being used to repair breakdowns.Ensureo safety requirements are fulfilled at the work place, including leading Field Level Risk Assessment (FLRA) and proper use of the appropriate PPE. Report any safety issues/incidents.Complyo with mine’s cardinal rules and other safety, environmental or other rules and standards as directed. Identifies any hazards in the work place.Maintainso equipment; parts and supply stocks by carrying out regular stock takes and ordering replacements as required.

Writing• Reports & Data ControlCompileo daily; weekly; monthly progress reports for the department. (Action Tracker)

Supervise• /Manage teamProvideo technical support/motivation for the team, by supervising various activities.Provideo training for the team (especially safety standards and procedures); schedules technical training.Conductso daily “Tool Box” meetings with the team.Manageso time and attendance.

Qualifications:

Grade 12 for locals (Technical School)Technical College Mechanical/Boilermaker DiplomaBoilermaker Trade (Expats)

Knowledge and Experience: 5+ years relevant experience

Technical Skills Behavioural SkillsComputerLiteracy(MSOffice–Intermediate,) Communication

(English)Attention to detail AssertivenessBoilermaker experience Interpersonal

RelationsProblem solving skill IntegritySupervisory experience Prioritizing skills &

multi-skillingAbility to work towards strict deadlinesHigh level of accuracySelf-motivation

General Information and other requirements:

Place of Work : Bisha.Salary: As per Company salary scale.

Additional requirement for Nationals: Havingfulfilledhis/herNationalServiceobligationandprovideevidenceofreleasepaper from the Ministry of Defense. Present clearance paper from current/last employer.Testimonial documents to be attached (CV, work experience credentials, a copy of yourNationalIdentityCardetc.).Only shortlisted applicants would be considered as potential candidates for an interview.Application documents will not be returned to sender.Allapplicationsshouldbesentthroughthepostoffice.Deadlineforapplication:10daysfromthedayofpublicationintheNewspaper.

Address: Please mail your applications to; Bisha Mining Share Company, P. O. Box 4276 Asmara, Eritrea

Note to non- Eritrean applicants: Please send a copy of your application to Aliens Employment permit Affairs, P. O. Box 7940 Asmara, Eritrea.

8Vol 23. No 100Eritrea Profile, Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Welcome home Gegante, please take us back to your childhood times?

It’s always good to be home. Well, I had a difficult childhood. I lost my mother when I was just a newborn, it was my grandmother who breast fed me besides the milk I used to have from our cow. I still remember the color of the cow, it was a light brown with white stripe at the center of its forehead. My grandfather was a priest and since I was an only child to my mother, he wanted me to become a priest just like him. But I never had the will to be one. I loved to work since my early ages that is why I went to Asmara to find my aunt so I could learn and work. I have worked with different people as a shepherd for some time.

Again, by the time I was 12, I started working at a bicycle repair with Goitom Abraha, who was like a brother to me. That is when I started to take interest in riding bicycles. So one of the famous cyclist of the time Fisehatsion, came and asked me to join him in his training. That was a great opportunity for me, so I rented an old bike and joined him. To my surprise, I finished first with my old bike leaving him behind. He was really impressed with me and told his boss that I have a good future in cycling. That is how I got in to cycling.

Where does all your love for cycling come from?

Brava, that is a good question. Back when I just started to take interest in cycling and started to watch the races, there was a guy named Lemem kahsai. He is probably the only one who was black to participate among the Italians at that time. I recall of a specific game, I saw him cry when he came in 3rd place following two Italians. And at that moment I promised to myself and friends that I was going to compete among the Italians and win. That was a promise I didn’t want to break.

Your nickname?

A Chat with a Legend of Eritrean Cycling!!!We proudly present to you a legend, some funs call him the “father of cycling”, and some told us that he is the one who introduced modern cycling to Eritrea.

Tekeste Weldu, aka “Gegante”, is one of the first Eritrean Athletes who participated in international cycling tournaments including the Olympic Games, making his name shine across the world of cycling. Gegante carries a great culture of assisting young athletes with cycling materials and opportunities. Q&A presents Gegante for a brief chat.

Asmait Futsumbrhan

When Goitom Abraha saw the way I ride the bike he went on to say “Gigna” ( hero). And that is how I got it, everybody started calling me Gegante.

Of your first memories of cycling…

The first time I had to race with the young cyclist, I came in first place, making almost 5min difference with the other contenders. Again when I joined the first division cyclists, I came in fourth place in my first game. After competing at different events, I had to face some inconvenience which made me stop cycling for a short time. However, the then cycling champion Salim Binnie Carmelo visited me. Trust me it was such an honor for me that a champion to know my name and wants to talk to me. He was one of cycling heroes. Salim convinced me to get back to cycling and encouraged me to train with him. We used to train at the evening times because we had to do other works during the day time. I borrowed a new bike from a friend, you know what? Champion couldn’t handle me, I left him way behind. That motivated me even more. He gave me a bike and helped me to win the races that I had competed through the years that followed.

The 1968 Olympic in Mexico City….

Yes, I came in 50th place. It was a good game I remember, and I was with the first contestants and was sure that I could have

finished among the winners. Unfortunately, I had to face some difficulties with the bikes and had to change four times. If it wasn’t for that specific incident, I know I could have won that game. Several Italian athletes and trainers were impressed by my performance and invited me to Italy; that is when I went to Italy.

How was Italy?

It was cold. Very cold. Naturally I can’t handle cold weather, but I had to adopt. Starting from 69 I became involved at various cycling races where I was coming in 3rd and 4th places at best. Nonetheless, it’s at a race titled, Jiro Da Osta, that I made history.

It was a very heated up race. Honestly speaking, I was racing hard to secure my spot at 2nd place, because the best racer was wearing the honorary Pink jersey. He kept telling me to let him pass and I told him that he can and kept riding. So, by the time I looked back he was far away. I

just couldn’t believe that I came in first leaving their best racer behind. It was a moment that still makes me happy, I couldn’t sleep for days after that. That is my favorite win of my entire cycling carrier.

Why?

Because, the Italians were the best at cycling during that time. To beat one of the toughest racers was just incredibly joyful for me.

Did you have a trainer back then?

Yes I did, Aurellio. He helped me tremendously since I only had the talent and stamina not the knowledge of cycling. But my trainer was educated and knew what were my strengths and weaknesses. I was good in breaking away but I am not a sprinter. That is why one needs a good trainer to make the best out of an athlete.

About the 1972 Olympic Munich…

We were informed that the Olympic Games were canceled due to some kind of inconveniences. Because of that, I was not training as hard as I should have. Suddenly, it was announced that the game was on as planned. I only had ten days training before I went into the contest which affected my timing.

There was a time where you got two Gold medals…

Yes there was. It was in Nigeria, the all African games, I had worked so hard for that game. During the competition, at 60 km to the finish line, the Nigerians and Moroccans had broken away from us. I wanted to catch up so I told my teammates to hold the others from pursuing. They told me that it was a bad idea and it was never going to work. I believed my instincts just went for it. Not only have I won first place but I put on a 5 minutes difference with the player who

got in 2nd place. Again I got my second Gold medal at the chronometer completion.

How many games have you had in your cycling history?

The biggest ones are, in the Champion of the world races in 1971, the Olympics of 68 and 72, tour of Spain where I came in 2nd place and tour of Italia where I came in 5th place.

You suddenly stopped cycling when you were just 24 years old, what happened?

I would never forget it as long as I live. I was told that the then Ethiopian Emperor Haileselasie wanted to see me, to congratulate me and award me for my encouraging results. Shockingly however, he asked me why I was not playing for Ethiopia and I told him that I was training in Italy. I also told him that I had great opportunities for me to be where I was in cycling. He openly threatened to kill me if I don’t play for Ethiopia. I was discouraged by his words. I thought that I deserved to be encouraged for what I had accomplished during my cycling days. On the contrary, he just turned the whole sport thing to political issue. And that made me stop. I didn’t want to compete anymore. After a while, they again asked me to compete for Ethiopia, I told them that I will only compete for Eritrea. I didn’t have any idea to when Eritrea was going to be free, but that was just my faith back then.

You have a cycling team under your name.….

I am not that rich. It’s just that I want to see more great Eritrean athletes. Hence, I do whatever it takes to provide the young cyclist with opportunities and materials. I have a bicycle shop, the bikes are sold at a very low price. The reason is so simple, because I don’t want anyone to struggle on their way of becoming champions. The same goes for the

Gegante at one of the races in 2016 continued on page 6