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Eritrea

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Selassie from Eritrea

Selassie from Eritrea

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Introduction to Eritrea

Introduction

Eritrea is a small country located in the Horn of Africa. It is bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, and Djibouti to the southeast. The east and northeast of the country have an extensive coastline along the Red Sea. The capital and largest city is Asmara. The country is multi-ethnic with nine recognized ethnic groups.

History

Eritrea’s history is rich and complex, with influences from various empires and civilizations. It was colonized by Italy in the late 19th century and became an Italian colony until World War II. After the war, Eritrea was annexed by Ethiopia, leading to a long and brutal war of independence that lasted from 1961 to 1991. Eritrea finally gained independence in 1993.

Geography

Eritrea’s geography is diverse, with a wide range of landscapes. The country includes the arid Danakil Desert, fertile highlands, coastal plains, and numerous islands in the Red Sea. The country’s highest point is Mount Soira, at 3,018 meters above sea level. Eritrea’s climate varies from hot and dry in the coastal region to cooler and wetter in the highlands.

Economy

Eritrea’s economy is largely based on agriculture, which employs 80% of the population. The country also has several mineral resources, including gold, copper, and zinc. However, the economy has been hampered by the effects of war, drought, and policies that limit private enterprise. Eritrea is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a large portion of the population living below the poverty line.

Culture

Eritrean culture is a blend of the country’s nine ethnic groups, each with its own customs and traditions. The country’s official languages are Tigrinya, Arabic, and English. Eritrean cuisine is similar to Ethiopian food, with injera (a sourdough flatbread) and spicy stews being common dishes. Eritrea also has a rich tradition of music and dance, with styles varying by ethnic group.

Education

Education in Eritrea is officially compulsory between 7 and 13 years of age. However, the schooling system faces many challenges, including a lack of resources and trained teachers. Despite these challenges, Eritrea has made significant progress in increasing enrollment rates and improving the quality of education.

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