Independence Day Celebrations in Anseba and Southern Red Sea Regions

Asmara, 24 May 2026- The Anseba and Southern Red Sea Regions enthusiastically celebrated the 35th Independence Day anniversary under the theme “Our Resilience: Our Guarantee.”

The celebration held at Keren Stadium on 23 May was attended by senior Government and PFDJ officials, army commanders, religious leaders, village elders, and a number of Keren city residents.

Mr. Siraj Haji, Chairman of the Holidays Coordinating Committee in the region, said that the celebratory event featured cultural and artistic programs depicting the bitter struggle the Eritrean people had to go through to realize their independence, the values and creativity nurtured, the heroism demonstrated, and the heavy sacrifice paid, as well as community gatherings and a carnival. Mr. Siraj also commended all those who contributed to and participated in the colorful event.

Col. Kibrom Nirayo, representing the Governor of the region, noted that the Eritrean people realized their independence and ensured their existence through over 50 years of political and armed struggle and 35 years of development and resilience. He also congratulated the Eritrean people and Defense Forces.

Similarly, the 35th Independence Day anniversary was colorfully celebrated on 23 May at the port city of Assab at the regional level under the theme “Our Resilience: Our Guarantee.”

The celebratory event, in which Ambassador Mohammed-Seid Mantai, Governor of the region; Brig. Gen. Abraham Andom, Commander of the Eastern Command; and Sultan Rahaita Abdulkadir Dawud took part, featured a military parade involving members of the Defense and Police Forces, a fast boat display, as well as cultural and artistic performances.

Ambassador Mohammed-Seid Mantai, explaining the heavy sacrifice that the Eritrean people paid to realize their independence, called for redoubled efforts in the implementation of development programs. He also commended all those who participated in the organization of the colorful celebratory event.

Ms. Hawa Mohammed, Chairperson of the Holidays Coordinating Committee in the region, said that residents of the 30 administrative areas in the port city are enthusiastically celebrating Independence Day together with members of the Defense Forces, attesting to the heavy price paid for independence and national sovereignty.