vol. 24 no. 93 saturday, january 20, 2018 pages 8, price 2...

Vol. 24 No. 93 Saturday, January 20, 2018 Pages 8, Price 2.00 NFA

The Eritrean Government and the People’s Republic of China signed

Epiphany (Timket) was colorfully celebrated nationwide yesterday. The religious observance here in the capital in which thousands of the faithful took part also witnessed a night long prayer. The observance at the Epiphany Holy Water spot was headed by Abune Lukas,

The 18th Eritrean Community Festival in Australia held under the theme “Laying Pillars for Vibrant Development” has concluded with patriotic zeal.

The annual festival in which a number of nationals, Australian government dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps as well as friends of Eritrea took part, highlighted pictorial exhibition depicting the exceptional architectural buildings of Asmara, seminar on the objective situation in the homeland, cultural and artistic performances, workshops on diverse topics as well as sports competitions.

Activity assessment meeting was also conducted in which representatives of national associations participated. Prizes were handed to winners of the sports competitions.

Explaining that the festival has been successful in all aspects, the Eritrean Consul General in Australia, Mr. Mehari Tekeste, expressed appreciation to those who made vital contribution for the success of the festival.

A total of 15 staff members of the Ministry of Health who have been pursuing distance education from the University of Dundee graduated this week in Masters Degree, in the fields of Nursing, Global Health and Wellbeing.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in which senior Government and PFDJ officials, representatives of the University of Dundee, members of the diplomatic corps and invited guests took part, the Minister of Health, Ms. Amina Nurhusein, explained that the program was part of the Government’s efforts to develop human resource capacity in all sectors.

Indicating that since 2003 the Health Ministry in collaboration

Epiphany CElEbratEd nationwidE

EritrEa and thE prC Sign loan agrEEmEnt

EritrEan Community FEStival in auStralia ConCludES

15 StaFF mEmbErS oF hEalth miniStry graduatE in

maStErS dEgrEE

Secretary of the Holy Synod.

Memhir Simon Beyene gave briefing on the background of the Timket Holiday and wished early recovery for the sick. Abune Lukas on his part called on every citizen to enhance participation in

safeguarding national sovereignty and development.

The Managing Director at the Central region, Mr. Zerit Tewoldebrhan, senior Government officials and thousands of the faithful took part in the celebration.

on 18 January an over 87 million dollars loan agreement here in the

capital. Finance Minister Berhane Habtemariam from the Eritrean side and Ambassador Yang Zigang of the PRC signed the agreement.

The loan will be channeled to construct the first phase of the 29 km long asphalt road connecting Adi-Guaedad with Habela.

Minister Berhane underlined the strong relations Eritrea and the People’s Republic of China share and expressed appreciation on the Chinese cooperation in development of programs in Eritrea.

Ambassador Yang on his part said that the agreement is part of the growing economic, political and social cooperation between the two countries.

with the University of Dundee has graduated a total of 156 staff members in different fields, Minister Amina said that the Masters Degree program is the first of its kind.

Likewise, Prof. Lynn Kilbride, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Science at the University of Dundee, said that the 15 years of educational cooperation between the University of Dundee and the Eritrean Health Ministry has made significant contribution in developing the capacity of staff members.

The graduates on their part commended the opportunity afforded them and expressed commitment to serve the public with dedication.

The Eritrean Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Osman Mohamed-Omer, has conducted seminar for Eritrean community members in Dubai city and its environs regarding the objective situation in the homeland and the role of citizens in national development.

Stating that commendable progress is being registered in building a developed nation, the Ambassador said that the speeding up of development infrastructure, ensuring sustainable water and electric power supply are among the successfully implemented programs.

Further noting that the success of the nation’s programs depends on the unity and organization of the nation, Ambassador Osman called on members of the Eritrean community in the United Arab Emirates to strengthen organizational capacity and enhance contribution in the development drive.

ambaSSador oSman mohamEd-omEr ConduCtS SEminar

2 Vol. 24 No. 93Eritrea Profile, Saturday, January 20, 2018

Published Every Saturday & Wednesday

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Aida Johar

Q: Mr. President, last week the Al-Jazeera television channel at Egypt broadcast a story asserting that Egyptian and Emirati troops equipped with tanks and aircraft were deployed in Sawa (western Eritrea). This news story was recycled by numerous media outlets without any verification. What are the origins and aim of this story?

PIA: I heard this news story while I was on the plane back home from Abu Dhabi. Frankly, I consider it a silly joke of 2018. We can raise many questions with regard to its aim, its timing and its links with various events taking place in our region and the wider neighborhood. This issue is not new at all. This false news is part and parcel of the cumulative lies, related to Eritrea, that have been fabricated in a similar manner. While we can mention a number of examples in relation to how such news stories originate and their potential consequences, what immediately comes to my mind is a previously fabricated news story claiming that Egyptian troops were deployed in Tsorona. Before they launched the attack against Eritrea at Tserona, the Weyane (TPLF) cadres told their army that “Egyptian army contingents had been deployed there”. How the Weyane regime tries to misconstrue and distort its

Interview with President Isaias Afwerkities and perspectives with Egypt is a broad and complicated issue. Leaving this aside, how can one justify the loss of life and other sacrifices that ensue from these fabrications?

At this moment, it is being claimed that Egypt has deployed soldiers and weapons in Eritrea. What was aired by the Al-Jazeera news agency was a fraction, the tip of the iceberg, in this campaign of disinformation. It was subsequently claimed that Egyptian troops have also been deployed in Barentu. This was apparently concocted to entangle the Sudan into the trap. There were allusions to verification of this story by independent and credible sources. We hear intelligence and security officials from Ethiopia and the Sudan held meetings in Kassala “to assess the exact locations of this supposed Egyptian troop deployment and to monitor its activities”.

All these stories are pure fabrications. But the architects of these lies often cite places and names in order to imbue credibility to their wild allegations. For example, it was claimed in one of the news report that a military officer named Tekle Manjus has been assigned to coordinate the troops deployed in Southern Barentu. How does such disinformation influence ordinary people and decision makers?

The lie associated with Sawa is the most baseless one. It has to be the most ridiculous joke because of its short-lived nature. In a way, it illustrates that those who fabricate these lies are not sophisticated enough to mislead the public. Al-Jazeera is a news agency serving such purposes. Obviously, we need to take into account how it is funded, led and managed. Al-Jazeera has established an office in Addis Ababa with the express purpose of coordinating the malicious agendas and conspiracies targeting Eritrea. Regardless of the claims made during its inauguration, this office is there to spread ill-advised propaganda against Eritrea. The fictitious news about Sawa was fabricated by this office. When you consider how informed those who are involved in the fabrication and spread of the false news are, you tend to feel that they are aliens from Mars or other planets. CJTN is a Chinese TV channel. Their correspondent in Cairo was asked to comment on the news

story? He was supposedly an expert on the region and well-informed about the issue. He stated, unabashedly: “I know that the UAE has a military base at Sawa Island! But I am not sure whether the Egyptians are there or not.” This shows how such fake stories are spread without minimum verification. What will this correspondent say if asked whether there is indeed an Island called Sawa and in which Sea it is found? Other big TV channels too followed suit. The story was gullibly recycled by Russia Today and other major networks who quoted and requited Al Jeezera without any validation. All these fabrications indicate the frivolity of the architects of these lies: the Weyane regime and its patrons. The Weyane regime is really a surrogate that does not have its own indepdent agend. So in a way, the blame rests squarely on its patrons.

This latest disinformation is linked to what was previously propagated about Israeli surveillance station at Emba Soira. That Israel and Iran have military bases in Eritrea’s Dahlak Islands was routinely claimed for almost a decade now. Most lies are short-lived; just the same as how dew evaporates shortly. The lie associated with the deployment of Egyptian troops is the most frivolous one and it is less likely to mislead the public. What will Egyptian troops deployed in Sawa do? If we really assume that Sudan is the target of “this conspiracy” what is the point of Sawa as Egypt’s border with Sudan in the north is wider and closer to the Sudan. Therefore, why do Sawa, Barentu, Haykota,

Tserona become issues? Is the threat directed at the Weyane regime? Again, this is silly and deliberately propagated to deflect public attention from the Woyane’s domestic woes and crisis. The fact is Ethiopia’s situation has become very worrisome and uncontrollable, both to Weyane and its patrons, and hence the ramping up of the disinformation campaign.

Weyane has multiple patrons. The fact that over time the situation in Ethiopia has been very disheartening and disappointing to all of them on the one hand, and the futility of the conspiracies engineered against Eritrea in the last 25 years on the other, have caused and fueled such fabrications and diversions. I would like to take this opportunity to praise the Eritrean people for their steadfastness and resilience to overcome the prolonged conspiracies against our country. While Weyane was supposed to be a servile agent of its patrons and a lot has been invested to strengthen it and weaken others in the region, the reverse has happened. What is being propagated in relation to Egypt is a baseless claim and a lame excuse intended to cover up the failures associated with the misguided policies of Weyane and its patrons.

The lies and propaganda messages mainly target Sudan as it is assumed that Egypt’s presence in Eritrea is a threat to Sudan. There are issues involving the Weyane regime and some interest groups in Sudan. These matters may be raised at an appropriate time in the future. Such interest groups aim to mislead the

people of Sudan and they are not concerned about the problems or consequences created. This is coupled with the desire of Weyane and its patrons to make Sudan part of the alliance against Eritrea, Egypt and others in our region. Therefore, the fabricated stories are ultimately expected to culminate in pushing Sudan into conflict with Eritrea. Recently, the border between Eritrea and Sudan was closed and there are maneuvers around the border. I have learned that parallel to the fabricated news story, Weyane and Sudan agreed last week for the former to deploy its troops in the southern part of the Kassala Province in the Sudan; in a place called Wilayat. It is said that financing the activities of such an army is the responsibility of the Sudanese government. This is mere speculation but an established fact. How will this operate? What will be its outcome? Is this army really expected to respond to an imagined attack against the Sudan from Sawa by Egypt?.

The ultimate aim of such false stories is to create conflicts and stoke tension between neighboring peoples. Thereafter, it becomes easy to abuse or manage the ensuing crisis. An intractable crisis situation in turn tends to create a fertile ground for deflecting attention from real problems. What comes to mind is the ignominious fabricated report of Iraq’s possession of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) by Colin Powell to the UN in an attempt to justify the war against Iraq. Look at the consequences of this act;

continued on page 3

(Part I)Editor’s Note: President

Isaias Afwerki was interviewed by local media on topical regional issues on Sunday, 14 January this month. Profile is serializing Excerpts of the interview.


continued from page 2

Interview with President . . .

how it has impacted Iraq.

The Woyane regime claims that Egypt aims to weaken Ethiopia because of the Millenium Dam Project. Eritrea is considered, in Weyane’s eyes, an instrument to weaken Ethiopia. This wrong perception has to be bolstered by an intensive media campaign. Given the extensive coverage of today’s communication technology, there is a misguided belief that fabricated news stories can be consumed as truth. It is believed that once false stories are repeated and recycled by various media outlets, the public can be convinced and influenced accordingly.

The Weyane regime can continue to buy time. It may continue to be provided with intensive care and preferential treatment by its patrons. However, the situation in Ethiopia is irreversible. The ploys and games described above and that are masterminded by Weyane and its patrons can no longer be effective. The past 25 years are indeed lost years. There are changes in the world, as well as in our region and our broader neighborhood. Such lies can never be useful for the survival of the Wayane regime. What is being amplified by Al-Jazeera will, therefore, be futile. The message that I wish to convey to the people of Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt is that it is time to say enough is enough. On our part, while we believe that such fabrications easily evaporate as dew, we have been doing what we should.

Regardless of what is being said and propagated about the deployment of an army, about whether the border is closed or opened, we firmly believe that this has nothing to do with the national interest of the people of Sudan. As I asserted earlier, the issue is associated with creating crisis and maximizing the interests of those who happen to mastermind such games in the course of managing and sustaining the crisis or conflict situation. So I earnestly remind the people of Sudan to open their eyes and their ears so that they can be conscious not to be misled by the frivolous propaganda games. We should all be conscious enough to fight and uproot such ills and wicked intentions from our region. Enough lessons have already been learned regarding the lost opportunities in the last 25 years and we should not tolerate

further losses. The interest groups in Sudan are not concerned about Weyane or the Ethiopian people. Their problem is associated with their fear that peace and cooperation between Eritrea and Ethiopia does not serve their purposes; good relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia are perceived to be not advantageous to them. This perspective was there prior to the current regime in Sudan. Similar fear was experienced or harbored in the minds of these interest groups when the situation changed in our region in 1991 and when this situation created a fertile ground for cooperation between Eritrea and Ethiopia. We say to such minority interest groups, who do not represent the people of Sudan at all and who are now conspiring with the Weyane, “Please be sensible enough to realise that attempts to create conflicts and border disputes between the people of Eritrea and Sudan are useless and it is better to come to your senses and discontinue creating conflict between the two peoples.” I would like to take this opportunity to make things clear that on our part we will never consider an invitation to such issues.

We may also relate these developments with our domestic situation. However frivolous and baseless they may be, they help us interrelate our situation with what is happening in neighboring communities. As I said earlier, the last 25 years are the lost years. Our region has been afflicted by interminable conflicts essentially to provide fertile ground to those who aim to maximize their vested interest and benefits by sustaining crisis. Let us say what has happened is enough and let us avoid further losses.

Coincidental as it may be, the fact that Christmas was celebrated at Sawa must have conveyed the right message to those who fabricated the lies of a phantom Egyptian military base there. I do not know why and how it was organized, but I must say that the Ministry of Information has done a good job.

Q: Last month, several media outlets reported that Turkey has plans to establish a military base in Sudan, in addition to its military involvement in Somalia. Many pundits maintain that the Horn of Africa is influenced by and interlinked with the geopolitical strategies of major countries in the Middle East. What is Eritrea’s perspective in

this regard? What is the stance of Eritrea with regard to the developments in our region?

PIA: Such concerns need to be examined from the perspective of a broader framework. After the end of the Cold War, during the last 25 years it was believed that a unipolar economic system would be created. Consequently, there have been major developments in our region. The situation in Somalia is one of the major disappointing consequences of such a perspective and prevailing developments. As part of our foreign policy, we firmly believe that whenever and wherever there is a gap in a particular neighborhood or region, this becomes a major cause of political instability. Whenever one country or government is excluded in any neighborhood or region, a major gap is created and this is a major cause of political instability. Think of what happened in the region or the broader neighborhood after the end of the Cold War. Consider what happened in Afghanistan after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Afghanistan may be far from our

region, however there is a major gap there. Everyone is aware of the situation in Afghanistan. If we explore the origin of such a situation, the motives associated with what has happened there, and why it is sustained, we can easily see the similar effects of similar motives in our own region. The situation in Iraq is also another major gap. A lot may be said about Iraq. The overall situation in Iraq, including what is happening with the advent of ISIS and other terror-related problems, has caused a perpetually tense state or condition in the region. This major gap is also related to the eight year war between Iraq and Iran, the invasion of Kuwait by Iraq, and the invasion of Iraq by the USA. Further, consider what is happening in Syria. There is also a similar problem or gap in Lebanon. All such problems are interrelated in terms of their effect on creating unstable political situation. What recently happened in Libya and Somalia also needs to be added to such gaps. All such situations are the same in terms of their cause: decisions that were based on fabricated lies led to such situations. Similarly, all that was said against Eritrea before the 2009 sanctions that were decided by the UN Security Council will remain in our active memory. Consider the lies fabricated in relation to nonexistent deployment of 2000

Eritrean troops in Somalia and the lies fabricated in relation to other issues by the officials of the Clinton and Bush Administrations in the US.

Somalia is a part of the Horn of Africa. In terms of strategic geopolitical relevance, Somalia is a very important country. The Somali people are proud people who are capable of making great and constructive contribution in our region. However, Somalia has been excluded from the map in terms of its potential contribution in the region for a quarter of a century. This major gap became a fertile ground for terrorism. This has been caused by the strategy of Weyane and its patrons in the last 25 years. They aimed to destabilize Somalia. In 1960, when Somalia became independent, it was divided into two parts – South and North. However, the people of Somalia became united and one country through their voluntary initiatives and endeavors. This was a unique occurrence in Africa. Who knows, they might have planned to reach beyond this so as to include Ogaden, Djibouti, North or Eastern regions and Kenya? The central point is that Somalia’s nationalism and patriotism was at its apex at that time. It can be claimed that it was a very exemplary one in our region. In the course of their nation-building process, once unity was achieved between the two parts of Somalia, the Somali people were determined to uproot tribalism from their society. This was a miracle and very symbolic. It means Somalia was one of the most powerful countries in our neighborhood. Unfortunately, war lords were created to destabilize Somalia. Clan or tribalism was considered the weak point to be exploited in order to create vertical polarization, cleavages and conflicts among the communities of Somalia. The efforts to weaken Somalia are linked to the establishment of anchor states in different parts of the world, which is part of the 2002 National Security Strategy of the USA. Ethiopia was selected to be an anchor and police state in the Horn of Africa. The intention was to make Ethiopia a regional superpower and make the rest of the states of the region subordinate ones that need to be disciplined by the boss or police state – Ethiopia. Somalia was considered a threat to this strategy. The situation in Kenya and Djibouti also has to be looked at from this perspective. The ultimate consequence is that Weyane became a regime that is

a servile agent of its patrons in our region. The Weyane regime became a policy instrument for implementing the agenda of its patrons. Even though the question we have raised is related to Somalia, the Eritrean case is linked to this situation and assessed from the same analytical framework.

Because of the motives described above, during the last 25 years, unity has been undone in Somalia and its sovereignty has been undermined due to the polarized cleavages and civil war. Somalia’s previously strong military institution is no longer there. At this time, it is not able to resist terror groups and those who are involved in piracy, such as Al-Shabaab. Somalia once had the strongest air force in the Horn of Africa. At this time, it is non-existent. In terms of its potential influence and contribution, Somalia has been excluded from the region. During the Siad Barre administration, especially at the end of his rule, there were excuses associated with terrorism and Islamic fundamentalism, mainly related to Eitihad. Such pretexts were intended to weaken Somalia and eventually make it inactive in the politics of our region. The invasion of Somalia by Weyane was not endorsed by the Security Council. It was just imposed and Weyane was ordered to invade Somalia by its patrons. Three consecutive US administrations significantly supported Weyane and contributed considerably in having Somalia eventually destabilized. A lot is said about Al-Shabaab. We may talk a lot with respect to who actually supports Al-Shabaab, who provides financial and logistical support to Al-Shabaab. Given this background, what is the need for the intervention of Turkey in Somalia? In terms of what is claimed by Turkey, there is a need to fight terrorism where it is – at its origins or sources. To this effect, does it mean Turkey should go to Somalia to fight Al-Shabaab and other terrorists that may be in Somalia? Can such a joke mislead us or eclipse what we can easily see with our eyes?


Natnael Yebio W.

Eritrea celebrates a host of holidays in January. First comes Christmas followed by the New Year and seven days later the Orthodox Christmas, add twelve days to that, you get Timket or the Epiphany.

Timket or Epiphany is one of Eritrea’s nationwide celebrated holidays of the year. Epiphany is a Christian feast that celebrates the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus Christ. The name of the feast as celebrated in the Orthodox churches may be rendered in English as the Theophany, as closer in form to the Greek (“God shining forth” or “divine manifestation”). Here it is one of the Great Feasts of the liturgical year, being third in rank, behind only Easter and Christmas. It is celebrated on January 6 of the calendar that a particular Church uses. On the Julian calendar, which some of the Orthodox churches the likes of Eritrea follow the date corresponds, during the present century, to January 19 on the Gregorian or Revised Julian calendar.

To start off with a little information on how and when Epiphany is celebrated throughout the world, many in the West observe a twelve-day festival, starting on December 25

The Shining Forthand ending on January 5, known as Christmas tide or the Twelve Days of Christmas. However, for the Catholic Church today, Christmas Time runs from First Vespers (Evening Prayer I) of the Nativity of the Lord up to and including the Sunday after Epiphany or after January 6, a period not limited to twelve days. Some Christian cultures, especially those of Latin America and some in Europe, extend the season to as many as forty days, ending on Candlemas (February 2). Today in Orthodox churches, the emphasis at this feast is on the shining forth and revelation of Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Second Person of the Trinity at the time of his baptism. It is also celebrated because, according to tradition, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by St. John the Baptist marked one of only two occasions when all three Persons of the Trinity manifested themselves simultaneously to humanity: God the Father by speaking through the clouds, God the Son being baptized in the river, and God the Holy Spirit in the shape of a dove descending from heaven (the other occasion was the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor). Thus the holy day is considered to be a Trinitarian feast.

The celebration in Eritrea is one of spectacle scenes quite colorful and jubilant. The gathering at

Mai Timket, a wide water basin with a statue depicting John the Baptist baptizing Jesus Christ in the middle, has always been a landmark event, both for locals and foreigners.

Thousands of the Christian faithful attend early morning Mass featuring preaching, ceremonial dances of the priests and spiritual songs.

The celebration of Timket has specific traditions, of course. The major tradition is a process ceremony that involves the Tabot. This is a model of the Ark of the Covenant, which is present on every Eritrean altar. The Tabot is wrapped in rich cloth and borne on the head of the priest, who takes part in the procession. This represents the manifestation of Jesus when he came to the Jordan for baptism. The procession is finished near a pool or a stream, where the Divine Liturgy is served at about 2 a.m. The Tabot is carried by priests from each church to the body of water, accompanied by the faithful and members of the clergy chanting, dancing, beating drums and waving prayer sticks. As evening falls, the priests and the gathered crowd participate in an overnight vigil and Mass around the Arks.

Following Mass, the Patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, usually in the presence of the

Governor of the Central Region and invited dignitaries, dips a golden processional cross in the water to Timket and blesses it and then sprinkles some on the faithful. This is to serve as a reminder of baptism – the remission of sins and that through the baptismal waters a person accepts the obligations of Christian commitment.

After the ceremony, most people enter the water and immerse themselves, as a symbol of renewing baptismal vows; some up their water bottles and containers they brought with them solely for that purpose. Some sprinkle it all over the people around, to some it might be bothersome but to young kids it is what they look for, going around dashing water at complete strangers and soaking up their clothes.

This is also common among the youth, back when I was in College in Adi Keih. The mass usually gathered at the town square and as soon as the ceremony was over, most of the participants of the event would hurry back to their dormitories with bottles filled with the holy water, with their minds fixated on the idea of emptying them on their friends, who probably

skipped the ceremony to catch forty winks. Waking up to cold water descending upon one’s face can be a rather rude awakening but it is just a matter of seconds before all get into the act as well.

Past all the shenanigans, the celebration of Timkat is not over. The Tabot is brought back to the church, escorted by dancing and singing children, paraded in a long procession through the streets with the priests dressed in their elaborate robes followed by huge crowds following at the end of the procession. In by the end, everyone goes back home to continue the celebration of Timket with the family, after having managed to dry up; families usually gather together to feast as different varieties of cuisine are set at the dining table. After the food is blessed, members of the family feast as they immerse themselves in deep conversations of the Ceremony accompanied by the little ones hilarious antics of the day.

Timket is a significant holiday for Eritreans. Besides the colorful ceremony, it is said to be that Timket ends the cold holiday season, the icy winds supposedly drown away in the Timket water. If this is true, I for one can’t wait for the cold season to be over.

Compiled by Habtom Tesfamichael

In nearly all countries of the world, bees and their products are not only common and have wide consumer demands, but such activities provide sustainable livelihoods to many small-scale farmers and other business people. Beekeeping (apiculture) is the practice of managing honey-bee colonies to collect honey for consumption, marketing, pollinating crops, and getting advantage of other products that the hive produces such as the beeswax, propolis, pollen, and royal jelly or even producing bees for sale to other beekeepers, says Mr. Zaid Tekle, an expert and manager of Bee and poultry reproduction in the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). In Eritrea, there are thousands of subsistence and commercial beekeepers.

As in many other countries in the world where honey bees naturally occur, Eritrean communities have had a long history of harvesting honey from the wild or in traditionally managed colonies. During the Feudal era, local lords used honey as a tax. Italians also engaged in honeybee production activities. But in a more integrated, commercial wax bee farming started after independence. After the 1998 initiative, a sound and practical study started in the areas where bee reproduction is suitable to practice. Farmers began to be introduced to modern and economically efficient bee farming. The MoA launched a campaign to augment honey production in the country by supporting farmers with the necessary equipment for beekeeping start-up. The objective was for every family to have its own bee colony to produce for its own consumption and the market. During the initial period, the project went through several setbacks. But after the year 2000 specialists in bee farming began to get training and the sector experienced a significant leap forward. As the honey reproduction centers of the MoA has been giving trainings and extension services to several farmers, the number of beekeepers has been increasing. As a result, commercial beekeeping in Eritrea has been improving in quality and increasing in quantity in nearly the last two decades.

The Ministry of Agriculture encourages bee farming especially because hives can be placed anywhere convenient and it do not use up land that can be used for cultivation. Bees collect nectar and

Bees: Providing Nutrition, Generating Income and Conserving Biodiversity

pollen wherever they can find it, including wastelands.

“The main mission of bees in our planet is not merely honey production but has to do with cross pollination and conserving nature” says Mr. Zaid. Nectar and pollen are not used by other livestock: only bees use these resources. Therefore bees can freely use the nutrients of the plants. Pollination of plants increases their seed production and, thus, contributes to their maintenance, increase in agricultural production, conservation of natural biodiversity and its sustainability. Their role is not readily recognized, even though bees are needed for the pollination of many crops and for maintaining biodiversity. Usually a honeybee can visit between 50 to 1000 flowers in one trip, which takes between 30 minutes to 4 hours. A colony with 25,000 forager bees, each making 10 trips a day, is able to pollinate 250 million flowers. Without bees, all valuable agricultural resources could not be harvested.

According to Mr. Zaid, there are over 20,000 species of bees in the world, all of which belong to the super-family Apoidea. Most of them lead solitary lives. A few species, however, are social, leading a community life in a colony. The most common “domesticated” honey bees are not more than four to five sub-species known for producing honey, making it worthwhile to keep them. Apis is, furthermore, the only genus in the Apinae subfamily among whose species Apis mellifera is of greatest economic importance that is common in Eritrea. These species are commonly known around the world and most studies are made on them. These include Apis mellifera,

A. m. scutellata, A. mellifera yementica, A. serrna, A. dorssata, flore. These sub families have been found to have specific behavioral and morphological characteristics, and their variation has some implications for bee-keeping practice. The MoA regularly conducts researche and surveys on the best type of species suitable to Eritrea and introduces them to the farmers.

According to Mr. Zaid Apis mellifera is one of the honey producing bees and has been introduced in most regions of the world. This species has African origin. Another species which has economic value in Eritrea is Apis serana. Apis serana migrated from the Middle East and can also be found around Europe. It is confined in this places. Apis dorsata is another bee species that is found in southern Asia. This species is much harder to keep in one place, but farmers collect the produce areas where the colony is found. The fourth species is known by the name flore. Flore is found in Afghanistan and Iran but has migrated to our country in the last three years. Similarly, this species is also difficult to keep in hives. It lives in trees and caves.

There are also stingless bees in our country. Bee species known by the local name “Teqeray” is one of them. A. mellifera yementica

species lives in the eastern lowlands of Eritrea all the way up to Yemen but A. m. scutellata is mostly found in the highlands. In Eritrea the most commonly reared bee species are known by the local names “Teqeray” and “Tsgenay” which represent Apis mellifera mentcosa and A. m. yemenitica sub-species of honeybee. Regarding their behavior and morphological characteristics, Mr. Zaid says, “the former make home in the ground and big tree holes. In spite of limited research, the honey harvested from this species is very low compared to the latter. From one colony of this species a quarter of a kilo honey can be harvested”. For this reason Eritrean farmers do not prefer to keep the Apis mellifera mentcosa. The traditional and most commonly kept bee species in the highlands is A. mellifera from which most of the honey we get comes.

Eritrea is one of the largest honey producing countries in Africa and has favorable climate for bee farming. The southern region is the most endowed in agro-ecology for bee farming in Eritrea. A study conducted by the Ministry found that the vicinities of Tsaeda-Qelay, Endagergsh, May-alba, Tserona, Hazemo, Deqi-lefay, Hademti, Mayaini, Qelay-beatit, Segheneiti, Ala, Adi-felesti, and Areza in the southern region are conducive for bee farming. However, deforestation and chemical use in agricultural fields remains a concern. This can damage honey production at national level. Trees make good places for bees to live and give wild bees nesting places, plenty of food to eat and shade. Therefore, preserving existing forest areas and enriching the environment with a variety of wild vegetation is of paramount importance in enhancing the sector.

In total, around 16 thousand traditional and 7 thousand registered bee-colonies in modern hives exist in the country. There are also estimated thousands of unregistered hives throughout the rural area. An increasing number of beekeepers associations are supplying their products to the market. An organized way of doing the activity is enabling the farmers to command market prices, share experiences and provide quality products. Mr. Zaid says that the Ministry regularly conducts research on the behaviors and adaptability of certain kinds of species with the aim of enhancing honey production both in quality and quantity which can be helpful economically to farmers. Based on the research conducted, the Ministry gives training to farmers on management and colony splitting, proper hive making and seasonal bee colony management practices. The adoption rate of modern beekeeping has been improved substantially after skill development training took place and appropriate beehives were produced.

Honey has been valued highly

as a sweetener since early times in human history. The content and color of honey is influenced by the kind of forage the bees extract. This product can be consumed as it is as table honey, and also as an ingredient for making candies from wax, conserved fruits, juices, cakes and cooked foods. It has a long history of a very wide range of use. In our communities a respected guest is provided with honey and “Kicha”, a traditional staple. It is also used to make beverages like Brzi, a drink made up of Siwa and honey. But this is used in holidays and special occasions, mostly in the rural area.

Honey, like other bee products, has a tasty and nutritional value and contributes to the overall health of farm families. In many societies bee products are used in traditional medicine and are an integral part of traditional health care. Bee products provide improved nutrition, and consequently, better health for farm families and others in local communities. Honey is a useful source of high-carbohydrate, and contains a rich diversity of minerals, vitamins and others, adding nutritional variety to human diets (FAO, 2009). Honey provides improved physical performance, resistance to fatigue and improved


continued on page 7

Vol. 24 No. 93Eritrea Profile, Saturday, January 20, 2018 6

Bisha Mining Share Company PLC is inviting interested applicants for the following position.

Position: Data Administrator Department: Engineering Process Plant Number required: (01)Contract Type: Indefinite

TASK DESCRIPTION

Administration of Data 1. Administration of office2. Health and safety 3.

Administration of Data

Receive data from Engineering Services Supervisor & Crew leader •for inputResponsible for filing of documents once signed off•Create and Maintain data base (s) administrative and for some •technical data Prepare, maintain, and update documentation for employees and •contractors required by BMSC and by government authorities Maintain records and archives for Engineering Services & Owner •Construction data, daily time sheets, site disturbances, etc.

Administration of office

Responsible for all administrative functions/ duties of the •Engineering Service & Owner ConstructionContact transportation in order to arrange for transportation of •Engineering & Owner Construction employeesAssist with roster leave and provide Manager & Superintendent •with leave balances received from Human Resources.Responsible to capture time sheets in spreadsheet to provide •information to finance. Spreadsheet to be signed off by Engineering Service & Owner Construction ManagerResponsible for the purchasing of office related items by raising a •purchase order to be signed off by Engineering Service & Owner Construction Ensure that all purchased item are collected from the store Arrange and ensure that all new employees are provided with PPE •as stipulatedReporting list of training requirement for the department to the •training department Arrange the training schedule and ensure that Managers and •supervisors are aware of training date Arrange with training departments that all new employees undergo •the Induction trainingArrange for driving assessment for Engineering Service & Owner •Construction employee prepare monthly report on Health and Safety Ensure that all site absent, sick leave etc. documents are filed•

Health and safety

Ensure that office area, Kitchen area and toilets are in a tidy •

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

condition.Ensure that office are adhere to the Health and Safety policy and •procedure Attend Health and Safety meeting on a daily and Monthly basis•

Qualifications

Grade 12 or Diploma in Social Science

Certificate in Computer science will be an added advantage.

Knowledge and Experience

2 – 3 Years office clerical administration experience

2 Years data capturing experience

1 year experience in engineering consultancy & construction office will be an added advantage

Technical Skills Behavioral Skills

Computer Literacy (MS Office – Intermediate – Excel -Advanced)

Communication (English and local language)

Accuracy of data Interpersonal relations skill

Administration skill Time management

Understanding of maintenance functions Deadline driven

Knowledge of Policies and Procedures Organizational skill

Knowledge of Health and safety policies & procedures

Interaction skill

General Information and other requirements:

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

Additional requirement for Nationals:

Having fulfilled his/her National Service obligation and provide •evidence of release paper from 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 back to sender and.•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 Ministry of Labor and Human WelfareDepartment of LaborP.O.BOX 5252, Asmara, Eritrea


VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Bisha Mining Share Company PLC is inviting interested applicants for the following position.

Position1. : Mini Bus Driver Department: Employee Services Number Required: 02 (Two)

Major Duties and responsibilities:-

Ensure that vehicle is roadworthy and that all necessary check-ups •have been done before departure. Ensure that both company and national road traffic rule and •regulations are respected.

Ensure that fuel tank of the vehicle is full with fuel before and after •each trip.

Ensure vehicle pre-start log sheet is filled out properly and •readable.

Ensure accidents and any defects are reported to your supervisor on •time and should be a true reflection of the accident/incident.

Ensure service is delivered as planned on the daily roster.•

Safety/ Customer Service

Ensure that passengers are guided properly during departures and •arrivals.

Ensure the safety of the passengers by adhering to the policy and •procedure on driving company vehicles.

• Required to provide a service for Bisha Mining to authorised areas and are required to perform duties not specified but as per request from his/her Supervisor.

General Information and other requirements:

• Place of Work: Bisha.• Salary: As per Company salary scale.• Type of contract Indefinite Period

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 inter-view.

Technical Skills Behavioural SkillsComputer Literacy (MS Office – Intermediate – Specific MS Word)

Communication (English and local language)

Implementation skills AccountabilityContractual knowledge Presentable

Knowledge of the safety policies and procedures Interpersonal relations skill

Interaction with client

Qualifications:

Grade 12Diploma in Management will be an added advantage

Knowledge and Experience:

3 Years Transportation experience Driving skillsKnowledge and experience in mechanics will be an advantageValid Driver’s License – Code 3

The Last Black . . .continued from page 3

That has been my ticket since then up to now. I thought if I made people laugh the kids would help me do my homework and I’d have people helping me.

When I was a kid I was very restless. I talked too much in class and got in trouble often. So my social worker suggested I was either to see a psychotherapist or join Laugh Factory Comedy Camp. I said comedy of course. And there I learned communication skills, confidence, how to write jokes and how to look at people and come up with jokes that suits best their mood. I can walk in any group of people no matter what and I can guarantee that at least four people would laugh, though a lot of times it is hundreds. What I love is looking at people’s teeth, see them laughing and hear the hihihi sound behind their smiles. Slowly my career started picking up. I was lazy at first but then realized I had to work without a break and learned to be committed towards my goal. And that’s how I am with you today!

Luckily you are a famous Hollywood personality amongst the Eritrean youngsters. Did you feel a connection with your fans in Eritrea?

Absolutely, young people come at me and politely ask for photos. I didn’t expect it but it is exactly like in America.

Have you had a chance to do your research on the Eritrean film making? Which obviously is not Hollywood standard. If so what is your opinion?

I have been watching Eritrean movies. They are not Hollywood standard yet but they’ll be. I have watched some Eritrean comedies and I can see they are quality just by looking. I see in the comedies the comedians’ purpose. Even though I don’t understand the words, I laugh because of the physical comedy. On Saturday I will be meeting Eritrean comedians and I am excited to share our experiences. I recognized two actors in a café today. My father would give me Eritrean movies he’d buy from little shops in Oakland, so I do know about Eritrean film making. But I got to mention how your music videos are, wow. You be popping them shoulders and what an energy. I’ll be running my mouth in Hollywood about all the beautiful things of Eritrea.

What is your plan for when you go back to America?

I know that now my biggest plan is to tell the world about Eritrea and its history. I now know that the country has been through a lot. A lot of families have lost so many loved ones, many lives lost and for what? How come we don’t know about this in America? It’s very sad. I was mad. My heart hurt so much. And I will also tell the world how beautiful Eritrea is. I just can’t wait to be back in December!

• 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.

continued from page 5

mental efficiency (FAO, 2006). Honey also is said to improve food assimilation (FAO, 2006). It is commonly indicated as a ‘lifesaver’ for people in critical health (CTA, 2005). Similar to Eritrea, bee brood and adult bees are consumed in many countries and in some are considered a treat. Brood and adult bees contain reasonable amounts of protein (FAO, 2006).

Many bee products have a good value in local markets and are easily tradable. Honey, for example, requires few inputs and has a good cash value related to bulk and weight. Honey is also easy to transport to distant markets. If appropriately extracted and processed, it can become a nonperishable providing sales of the product well beyond the main harvest times. This can provide a more constant and regular income for the farm families. Beekeeping is a fairly easy activity to start and this can benefit the disadvantaged sections of a society, for

example, females and people with disabilities. Furthermore, traders and others benefit from a strong beekeeping industry. Other local traders benefit by making hives and other equipment, and from using and selling the products. Thus, it creates employment and mitigates poverty level.

In Eritrea, in many rural areas, various forms of beekeeping have been in practice for many years. One of the future aims of the Ministry of Agriculture is to improve honey production by forming associations, conducting research and giving training to farmers. By introducing beekeeping as a business and building on pre-existent skills it will improve the knowledge and capacity of small-scale farmers. This will enhance local traditions in beekeeping while developing such an enterprise for the benefit of many in the local community. This is not meant to deviate from the use of acquired techniques and equipment in the locality, but enhance and improve them.

Bees: Providing . . .


The Last Black Unicorn is in EritreaBillion Temesghen

I present to you today my favorite Hollywood face. Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish is here with us! Born on the 3rd of December 1979, Tiffany grew up in Los Angeles, California. She used comedy as a gateway to joy from problems she faced as a child. She considers laughter to be the best medicine and so every day she strives to heal as many people as possible. Tiffany, a power machine of laughter and a prominent African American female comedian is here in Eritrea bidding farewell to her late father. Tiffany Haddish will be flying back to the USA tonight after some marvelous days that will be memorable in the memories of her Eritrean fans. As you read today’s article I hope you smile and do the “hihihi” sound with it as that would be our today’s Q&A’s guest greatest pleasure.

continued on page 7On the 18th Jan, Tiffany visited the tanks grave yard.

Welcome to Eritrea Tiffany. How is it going so far?

I feel great. So far it has been amazing. When I first got here my whole family came to greet me in the airport; all of these people that I have heard so much about but never had a chance to meet. They greeted me with the typical ‘ilililil’ uproar. I am staying in this real beautiful hotel, the Asmara Palace. It makes me feel like a real princess.

We also visited the cemetery and that was the most beautiful experience to me. I have been tirelessly around the city. I am happy to see all of the people walking peacefully. Wow, and the food, I have been to my cousins’ and aunt’s places and I have been eating so much food. I love enjera and everything else. I don’t even know the names of most of the dishes I had but I ate good. Then we went to Massawa and the trip was incredible. On our way to Massawa I looked a mashela (sorgum) farm and I know you make enjera out of it, and then I ended up in an argument with someone thinking that that was a corn farm field. And then we got to Massawa and stayed in this beautiful hotel, the Dahlak Hotel.

What about your family?

My father told me many stories about my extended family. And when I look at them I see my father. It makes me miss him. So it’s bitter sweet to be reunited again. It feels like I got my dad back; not quite though, because I don’t understand what most of the people say to me. But I am going to learn because I am coming back and I’ll be talking the good Tigrigna on my next trip.

Were they surprised to see you?

My family knew about me all this time. I am sure they were not surprised. But I can tell they’re happy to have me. We hugged each other and cried together. They are also feeding me, so I think they like me. They’re nice, they are even trying to marry me off and everything. I am

happy to be here.

Are you emotionally feeling connected to Eritrea?

By the time I walked in the shores of the Red Sea I got emotional. I finally felt at home. I told myself that this is where I should have been a long time ago. The Red Sea water made me feel great. It felt like my heart was being healed. I have been through so much, and for long I have been trying to figure out who I am. Now I have a better understanding of why I am on this earth and what my purpose is.

I see the people and I see myself in them. This place gave me the chance to appreciate the real meaning of life. In the villages I saw young boys, shepherds taking care of their goats and camels. I love animals. When I was younger I dreamt of having my own little farm with cows, goats, sheep and everything. I see people growing greens. Farmers work together and produce food together. I love working together with other people. And it is just nice to know who’s growing your food. In America you don’t even know who’s packaging your food. You just eat what you find. Here it’s different. You go to the market and everything

is fresh. You pick your own food. You know where your food is coming from. I love that. In America people eat and they feel fat. Here is different. I eat and I am full but it’s an energizing full. You feel healthy. The cycle and style of life I saw is incredibly real. Humane. It’s great.

Oh by the way… Did you know that there are more than 300 Eritrean Islands in the Red Sea? Wow. We went to the Green Island and the Dahlak Islands. I met the mayor of Dahlak and he told me he’s going to get me a husband. The mayor also gave me some beautiful dresses and summoned some of the village’s young men for me to choose from. That was hilarious. An extremely fun experience. I played in the water and never got tired. The sand is so white and the islands are just so beautiful. Honestly, my soul has been healed. I can’t wait to go back to the US and brag about all the things I learned.

It is a good thing you became an all-inclusive artist because there are many people who cannot have enough of you. You are a great comedian and an actress. Which one do you prefer the most?

The one I love the most is standup comedy. I have done cartoons where

I am in a booth and I talk by myself. I have done movies alongside great people and that’s super great too because I am working with great people like Queen Latifah, Jeda Pinkett Smith, kevin Heart, Danny DeVito and more, so film is great, but nothing is like standup comedy. Standup comedy gives you instant gratification. You know right away if the crowd likes you or not, if they agree with your ideas or not. You know immediately. Also you get the chance to feel the energy. Laughter is the best medicine of all time. When you lough all of your organs are being massaged, your blood is flowing, you feel joy in your heart and in your mind. That’s exactly why I do standup comedy. Even if I am an old lady like 110 years old, I am going to go on stage to do standup comedy. Because I know that’s where I connect with people the most.

You work next to big names…

Yes I do and I am grateful. Queen Latifa taught me not to pay attention to what people say about you. Because people do say mean things to you or about you no matter what. You pray for those people and work harder. She also me to call her if I get drunk and that she’ll send a driver no

matter where I am. Kevin Heart is like my older brother. In few words every time I work with awesome people there is a great deal of lesson I pick up. And so I am super grateful.

And Saturday Night Live. What a hit! Competitions are high for that seat.

To be the first African American female standup comedian to host Saturday Night Live is an honor. The show has been there for 43 years. It started way before I was even born. Therefore, it is not an easy job. You have to be quick, funny and smart. I enjoy every part of it. But the best part is that young people can see me do it. My daily wish is for them to think they can achieve even bigger things. I want them to be like “if she can do it, then I can too!”

I know comedy was also your escape from the hurdles of life. Can you take me back please?

When I was a little girl I was very goofy and silly because I had watched a movie where a detective asks the rabbit why people do nice things for him. The rabbit answered saying “because I make them laugh, and if you make them laugh they’d do anything for you”. And that’s it. I told myself that this is how I am going to make people help me.

Tifanny paying her respect at the Martyrs’ cemetry

vol. 24 no. 93 saturday, january 20, 2018 pages 8, price 2...

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