Today Eritrea is commemorating the 33rd Anniversary of Martyrs Day – one of the most significant events in the country’s history. This day was established to honor those who lost their lives battling for the country’s freedom between 1961 and 1991. Later, the Eritreans who died during the Eritrea–Ethiopia War of 1998-2000, were also included in commemoration programs on this day.
President Isaias Afwerki laid a wreath at Asmara’s Patriots Cemetery in morning hours today in tribute & remembrance of Eritrea’s Martyrs. Ceremony included public procession from Sheda Square to Cemetery & cultural shows.
Sermons & Prayers in Commemoration of Martyrs Day were presided by Religious Leaders of Tewahedo Orthodox; Catholic; & Luthern Christian denominations held at St. Michael’s Church in Asmara in mid-morning hours on Wednesday. Similar ceremony at Asmara Grand Mosque was held today.
In connection with Eritrea Martyrs Day, Mr. Zeray Tekleab, Director of Welfare for Families of Martyrs at the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, announced yesterday that the Government of Eritrea has allocated more than 5.7 billion Nakfa to assist the families of martyrs. Since 1995, the government began its support by providing each family with 10,000 Nakfa. To ensure ongoing assistance to ease life challenges of the families of martyrs, the Government enacted the Support of Families of Martyrs Proclamation No. 137/2003. Since January 2004, each martyr’s family has received a monthly stipend of 500 Nakfa, totaling over 5 billion Nakfa in disbursements by 2024.
He also noted the significant contributions from nationals both within the country and abroad, which have amounted to over 180 million Nakfa, benefiting 21,103 families of martyrs.
After years of armed struggle, Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1991. In 1993, it formally become an independent country.
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