Write@Home
Winter 2015

Homeland

Aerial view to Asmara, the capital of Eritrea

My homeland is Eritrea. It can be found in Northeast Africa. Eritrea got its independence from Ethiopia in 1991. Eritrea can be divided into three major zones: the Central Highlands, Coastal Region and Western Lowlands. The climate in the Coastal Region and Western Lowlands is hot, while in the Central Highlands it’s cold.

My favorite place in Eritrea is Keren, which is my home city. Keren is one of the bigger cities in Eritrea. It can be found between the Highlands and Western Lowlands and has a moderate climate. Keren is surrounded by high mountains in all directions, which makes it unique. People who live in Keren have special customs during their holidays. During the holidays in Keren, in the daytime it is almost a must to visit all your friends, neighbours and relatives while in the evening adults gather and enjoy traditional coffee. You don’t need to have a special relationship with your neighbours to visit them during these holidays; even if you don’t know them, you can start a relationship with them from that holiday on. Usually the holiday lasts more than two days. In the daytime, most families leave their compound doors open so visitors can visit them easily.

In conclusion, Eritrean people in general and Keren residents in particular like social gatherings and spending lots of time with their friends and families.