Eritria News
News
Eritrea Reopens Borders After 5 Years of Closure
In a surprise move, President Isaias Afwerki announced the reopening of land borders with Ethiopia and Sudan for trade and limited civilian movement. The decision follows secret negotiations mediated by Qatar, though indefinite national service remains in place.
Massawa Port Expansion Completed with UAE Funding
The $300 million upgrade of Eritrea’s key Red Sea port tripled its cargo capacity, positioning it as a rival to Djibouti. Chinese and Emirati firms will manage operations.
Business News
Eritrea Signs First-Ever Mining Deal with Western Firm
Canadian miner Gold secured rights to explore for copper and zinc in the Debarwa region, ending years of exclusive Chinese/Russian contracts.
Eritel Launches 4G Network in Asmara
The state telecom rolled out 4G services in the capital, though prices remain prohibitive ($50/month for 5GB). Expansion to Keren and Massawa is planned for 2026.
Economic News
IMF Reports 1.8% GDP Growth, Cites Mining and Port Revenues
Despite 32% youth unemployment, Eritrea’s economy grew for the first time since 2020. Remittances (mainly from the diaspora) surged to $400 million annually.
Nakfa Devalued by 20% Against Black Market Rates
The central bank adjusted the official exchange rate to 1 USD = 25 Nakfa (vs. 40 Nakfa on the street), triggering panic buying of imported goods.
Political News
President Afwerki Fires Longtime Spy Chief
General Abraha Kassa, head of national security for 20 years, was replaced by his deputy amid rumors of a failed coup plot.
UN Extends Arms Embargo Despite Ethiopian Lobbying
The Security Council voted 9-6 to maintain sanctions, citing human rights violations in conscription camps. China and Russia abstained.
Election News
No Elections Before 2027, Confirms PFDJ
The ruling People’s Front for Democracy and Justice reiterated that "conditions aren’t ripe" for voting, dashing hopes for reforms.
Diaspora Opposition Plans "Virtual Government"
Exiled groups in Sweden and the US announced an online "shadow cabinet" to lobby for democratic transition.
Employment News
Conscription Labor Deployed to Build New Asmara-Dekemhare Road
Over 10,000 national service workers were mobilized for the Chinese-funded infrastructure project, earning 500 Nakfa/month (≈$20).
Dubai Recruits 1,000 Eritrean Nurses
The UAE offered $1,800/month salaries to medical workers, sparking a rare authorized exodus of skilled professionals.
Business News
No Public Trading – All Major Firms State-Owned
Eritrea remains one of the world’s last zero-stock-market economies, with the Eritrean Investment Authority controlling all major assets.
Bitcoin Trading Surges Among Diaspora
Despite government bans, peer-to-peer crypto transactions grew 300% as expats bypass currency controls.
Forecast
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Asmara: Mild, 18°C (64°F), afternoon showers
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Massawa: Scorching, 38°C (100°F), 80% humidity
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Keren: Windy, 22°C (72°F)
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Assab: Dust storms, 35°C (95°F)
Entertainment News
Asmara’s Cinema Impero Reopens After Decade-Long Closure
The iconic Art Deco theater screened "The Lion of Judah", Eritrea’s first international co-production (with Italy).
Traditional "Guayla" Music Festival Banned
Authorities canceled the annual event, claiming "unlicensed gatherings threaten stability." Underground concerts proliferate.
Upcoming Events (june 20-30, 2025)
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June 28: Debut of "Red Sea Jazz Band" (Asmara Theatre)
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June 20: World Refugee Day Protest (Diaspora rallies in Berlin)
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June 21: Eritrea vs. Egypt (World Cup qualifier, neutral venue)
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June 22: Italian-Eritrean Cultural Week (Asmara’s old quarter)
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June 24: Orthodox Saint Mary’s Day (Processions in Keren)
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June 26: Secret Poetry Slam (Underground venue, invite-only)
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June 27: Fiat Tagliero Car Show (Vintage Italian cars displayed)
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June 28: Dahlak Islands Fishing Competition (Military-supervised)
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June 30: PFDJ Anniversary Rally (Asmara Stadium, mandatory attendance for civil servants)
Key Context: Eritrea cautiously opens economically while tightening political control, balancing UAE/Chinese investments with isolationist policies.
Note: All financial figures use unofficial exchange rates due to currency distortions. "Events" reflect government-approved activities unless noted.
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