The spirit of resilience and unity was palpable this week as Eritrea Celebrates International Women’s Day across the nation, with a particularly vibrant gathering in the Gash Barka Region. Held in the town of Mogolo, the regional event brought together thousands of citizens, officials, and community leaders under the profound 2026 theme, “Our Values – Our Shield.” The celebration served as both a tribute to the historic role of Eritrean women and a renewed commitment to the challenges of the future. At the heart of these festivities was Yihdega Yohannes, the head of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) in the region, who delivered a stirring address on the enduring strength of Eritrean society.
During the colorful ceremony, Yihdega Yohannes emphasized that the day is not merely a formality but a crucial moment for reflection and action. She highlighted the union’s ongoing efforts to empower women politically, economically, and socially, ensuring that the legacy of the liberation struggle is passed down to the younger generation. Her sentiments were echoed by Ambassador Mahmud Ali Hirui, Governor of the Gash Barka Region, who noted that as Eritrea Celebrates International Women’s Day, the nation reviews its pledge to preserve the equal participation women secured through decades of sacrifice. The event featured dynamic cultural performances and artistic programs that vividly depicted the theme “Our Values – Our Shield,” reinforcing the message that Eritrea’s cultural and social values remain its strongest defense and guide in a changing world.
A Theme of Strength: “Our Values – Our Shield”
The choice of the theme “Our Values – Our Shield” for the 2026 celebrations resonates deeply within the Eritrean context. It reflects a national consciousness that prioritizes indigenous cultural assets, communal solidarity, and self-reliance as the primary tools for national defense and development. In Mogolo, this theme was illustrated through drama and music that showcased women as the custodians of these values. Speakers at the event stressed that the rights Eritrean women enjoy today—ranging from land ownership to political representation—are rooted in these shared values, which act as a shield against external pressures and internal social decay.
Regional Impact and Future Goals
The Gash Barka celebration was part of a wider wave of festivities, with similar events taking place in the Anseba Region and within various government ministries. In Anseba, Ms. Amna Hassan, head of the NUEW branch there, called for greater efforts to transfer the history of Eritrean women to the youth, ensuring that the torch of equality is not dropped. Meanwhile, the event in Mogolo served as a platform for the regional administration to outline future development plans that prioritize women’s health and economic independence.
Governor Mahmud Ali Hirui reinforced this vision, stating that the administrative participation of women is a cornerstone of the region’s stability. He urged all sectors of society to work collaboratively to eliminate remaining barriers to gender parity. As Eritrea Celebrates International Women’s Day this year, the message from Gash Barka is clear: the progress made is irreversible, and the values that forged the nation will continue to shield its future.
The Role of the National Union of Eritrean Women
The National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) continues to be the driving force behind these advancements. By organizing events like the one in Mogolo, the NUEW not only celebrates past achievements but also mobilizes women for current national development programs. The strong turnout and enthusiastic participation in Gash Barka demonstrate the Union’s continued relevance and influence. As the festivities conclude, the focus shifts back to the practical work of nation-building, with the inspired women of Gash Barka ready to lead the charge, shielded by their values and empowered by their unity.
