Asmara: The National Eritrean Festival 2026 was officially opened this morning by President Isaias Afwerki at the Expo Grounds. The opening ceremony featured traditional dances and songs from the country's various ethnic groups, showcasing unity in diversity. President Isaias, accompanied by senior Government and PFDJ officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and a number of nationals from inside the country and abroad, toured the various displays and was provided with briefings. According to African Press Organization, during his visit to the regional villages, President Isaias observed regional products, the expansion of social service institutions, agricultural development programs, historical and heritage materials and photographs, cultural and natural resources, innovative and creative works, as well as the resources of the Eritrean Red Sea. He received briefings by the organizers on these topics. President Isaias also visited exhibitions presented by the Ministries of Defense and Information, a book fair, sculpture and painting displays, as well as bazaars organized by various institutions. The festival aims to highlight Eritrea's rich cultural heritage and recent developmental achievements. The National Festival 2026 will remain open until 26 July, featuring traditional and modern music performances, traditional villages representing the cultures and traditions of Eritrean ethnic groups, Eritrea's agricultural and marine resources, seminars, bazaars, photo and material displays, artistic programs, innovative and creative displays, and children's programs, among others.
