Eritrea Urges Youth and Experts to Safeguard Gash Barka’s Cultural Heritage

Authorities in Eritrea’s western Gash Barka region are rallying local communities, young people, and heritage specialists to intensify efforts in identifying, recording, and protecting the area’s diverse cultural assets. The appeal was issued during a strategic community assembly convened in Barentu on August 11, underscoring a growing commitment to preserving historical identities amid rapid modernization across the Horn of Africa.

The gathering served as a comprehensive review of recent initiatives undertaken by the regional Culture and Sports Department, which has worked alongside various stakeholders to safeguard both tangible monuments and intangible traditions. Officials evaluated past achievements, analyzed ongoing challenges, and mapped out upcoming preservation frameworks designed to ensure local traditions endure for coming generations.

Addressing attendees, Mr. Idris Saleh, Director General of Culture and Sports in Gash Barka, highlighted notable successes achieved by expert-led committees. He revealed that several invaluable cultural elements previously facing the threat of extinction have been meticulously documented. Today, these preserved traditions are actively showcased during prominent regional and national gatherings, revitalizing public awareness and pride.

Mr. Idris also praised the dedication of local residents and specialized committees, whose active involvement has successfully brought the region’s unique heritage to broader audiences, notably at the country’s prominent national festivals. Community collaboration remains a cornerstone of Eritrea’s strategy to maintain cultural continuity.

Concluding the session, participants endorsed a series of actionable recommendations to sustain the momentum. Key proposals include organizing grassroots cultural competitions across local administrative tiers, expanding academic and field research into unexplored heritage sites, and fostering deeper civic engagement in conservation projects.