Asmara Eritrea - May 19th 2007

 

Today I have planned a lot of appointments, so there isn't much to tell. I pass an exhibition prepared by elementary students from different corners of Eritrea, in front of the Ministry of Education. It is the perception of independence from the eyes of infants. The children have been inspired by the nine nationalities and the agricultural and marine potential of Eritrea.

When I am on my way to Fontana Car Rental, I pass a window with mirror glass. I am attracted by a beautiful poster, congratulating Eritrea with its 16th Independence Day, but I do not realize that the people on the other side of the shop window are admiring the print on my t-shirt. The door opens, and I am invited to come in. It is a traditional Eritrean  restaurant behind a very modern facade. It is lunch time and I decide to take a chance.

I meet Rodas at the Impero Bar. I ask her about the meaning of her name. It is the name of one of the nails with which Jesus Christ was crucified, she tells me. We talk about the Red Cross and about the letter. Rodas went to Kahawta, but again the result was zero point zero.

At six o'clock we split. Rodas will go home, and I will enjoy the third and last evening show at Bahti Meskerem. I do exactly as yesterday. The public, including me is directed to the grandstand, but when the show starts, I find myself a nice place between the policemen and military. Every once and a while I make a few steps forward, so I have a free sight to make a picture. With my finger a make clear that it will only be a few steps, pointing at the stage.

Thumbs up, please go ahead, the policeman next to me gesticulates. The tourist is very welcome to have some freedom, as long as it does not disturb the show, or hinders the artists (even without the PFDJ's permit).

 

Exhibition of students perception on liberated Eritrea
 'Our Independence is a gift of our Martyrs'
Ministry of Education - Harnet Avenue Asmara Eritrea.

Exhibition of students perception on liberated Eritrea
Ministry of Education - Harnet Avenue Asmara Eritrea.

Colorful decorations - Impero Bar Asmara Eritrea.

Abeba traditional food (next to Fontana Car Rental) - Asmara Eritrea.

The audience at the evening show - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.

Live entertainment - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.

Traditional singing and dancing - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.

The M Sisters - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.

Short musical drama - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.

Fatuma Mohammed - Bahti Meskerem Square Asmara Eritrea.