I had the opportunity to attend the International Conference for the Eritrean Studies (ICES) for the first time this year, which took place in Asmara from January 4-6, 2025. The ICES was a notable event that brought together a diverse group of participants, all eager to engage in meaningful dialogue regarding Eritrean history, society, research and development. The conference was well-organized, aiming to explore critical themes relevant to the nation’s past and its future, and the enthusiasm of the attendees was noticeable. The thematic addresses delivered during the conference were particularly relevant, focusing on Eritrea’s rich history, social justice, economic challenges, science and technology and cultural development. These topics not only resonated with the audience but also provided a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping Eritrea today. The presenters, who were highly qualified and passionate about their subjects, offered deep insights that sparked engaging discussions. A significant highlight was the diversity of the presenters. While most were local Eritrean researchers, contributions from Eritrean scholars based overseas and foreign researchers enriched the discourse. This blend of perspectives allowed for a multifaceted assessment of Eritrean studies, showcasing a collaborative spirit that transcended borders. The papers presented were not only academic but also data driven documentations, providing valuable insights that policymakers and future investors can leverage to foster sustainable development in Eritrea.
Amid the many engaging presentations at the conference, three exceptional Eritrean scholars served as keynote speakers on the first day of the conference, each offering unique insights into the current and future directions of Eritrea. The first scholar, Prof. Ghebrebrhan Ogubazghi presented an insightful examination of the role of science and technology in Eritrea’s development. Utilizing mathematical models and simulations, the presenter provided compelling examples of how these tools are harnessed to address various developmental challenges. This approach not only highlighted the innovative spirit within Eritrea but also demonstrated the practical applications of scientific research in fostering progress. The audience was particularly impressed by the tangible outcomes resulting from these technological approaches, which underscored the importance of integrating science into national development strategies. This lecture was followed by the contributions of two academic researchers of Eritrean origin, namely Professor Girma Bitsuamlak and Professor Solomon Tesfamariam from Canada. Both captured the attention during the conference, each addressing significant topics that resonate with local and global contexts as well.
Professor Girma focused on the role of wind in designing robust buildings. This presentation was particularly fascinating, as it explored how wind dynamics can be harnessed in architectural design, especially for high skyscrapers. The discussion highlighted innovative strategies that architects and engineers can employ to ensure structural stability while maximizing sustainability. By integrating wind analysis into the design process, future buildings could not only withstand natural calamity but also promote energy efficiency, making this a vital area of study for urban development in Eritrea and beyond.
Professor Tesfamariam shifted the focus to the old city of Massawa (Eritrea), discussing the renovation of old buildings and the vision of transforming the city into a smart city using digital tools for sustainable management of heritage buildings. His presentation was both inspiring and pragmatic, as it emphasized the importance of preserving historical architecture while integrating modern technology. The researcher outlined plans for upgrading infrastructure and incorporating smart systems to enhance urban living. This initiative not only aims to improve the quality of life for residents but also seeks to attract tourism and investment, showcasing Massawa’s rich history alongside its potential for modernization.
In contrast, I presented on a political topic rather than my usual scientific expertise, focusing on the role of initiatives and forums in addressing conflicts in the Horn of Africa, specifically in Somalia and Sudan. My analysis highlighted the complex challenges these nations face, including political instability and ethnic/tribal tensions. While some initiatives have shown positive outcomes, I argued that the increased foreign interventions have resulted in a fragmented approach to conflict resolution. I assessed key initiatives/forums like peace talks and international mediation, stressing that endorsing federalism as a solution for the Somali conflict was a significant error. The adopted clan federalism is deeply entrenched in clan dominance rather than citizenship, which hinders national unity and effective governance. A homegrown, Somali-led approach is critical for achieving sustainable solutions and transitioning beyond externally imposed, experimental nation-building models.
It is hard to summarize all the presentations from the three days at ICES in this piece because of the large number of papers shared. However, I would like, to conclude by recognizing two remarkable Eritrean historians (Mr. Yohanes and Mr. Alemseghed) who attracted considerable interest at the conference and played a significant role in the success of the ICES.
Mr. Yohannes delved into the complex narrative surrounding Eritrea’s army struggle, making a strong case for the challenges of accurately documenting this critical aspect of the country’s history. Despite having backgrounds in law, both scholars have dedicated their careers to researching and writing about Eritrean history. Their presentations were thought-provoking, shedding light on the nuances and controversies involved in recounting the experiences of Eritrea’s army during its liberation struggle. Listening to their arguments was one of the highlights of the conference, as they effectively communicated the importance of historical accuracy and the implications it has for national identity. Together, these scholars not only captured the essence of Eritrea’s past and present but also inspired the audience to reflect on the significant role of scholarship in shaping the future. Their contributions were integral to the conference’s overall success, deepening the appreciation for the ongoing work that scholars are doing in Eritrea.
One final interesting aspect worth highlighting about the ICES was the remarkable diversity in the age gap among researchers. The attendees ranged from seasoned academics and established researchers to enthusiastic young scholars, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the discussions. This intergenerational mix enriched the conference atmosphere, fostering a collaborative spirit where knowledge could flow freely across age groups. Older academics shared their wealth of experience, providing valuable insights gleaned from years of research and practice. This diversity in age and experience truly enriched the conference experience, making it a platform for comprehensive dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The conference truly served as a platform to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making for the country’s progress. The venue, Asmara Palace, was an excellent choice for such a gathering. Its ambiance complemented the conference’s objectives, creating a conducive environment for learning and networking. Indeed, the networking opportunities were outstanding. Attendees from outside Eritrea including myself left with a wealth of knowledge, having engaged with local experts and fellow researchers.
Overall, the conference showcased Eritrea’s ambitious goal of prioritizing research and development, leveraging a data-driven approach to inform decision-making. Despite facing numerous challenges, Eritrea is making significant strides in building the necessary infrastructure to support academic research and innovation, paving the way for the country’s future development.
