Regions of Eritrea

Politics of EritreaAt the time of Independence in 1993 Eritrea was arranged into ten provinces. These provinces were similar to the nine provinces operating during the colonial period. In 1996 these were consolidated into six Regions (Zobas). The boundaries of these new regions are based on catchment basins.

Critics of this policy contend that the Government of Eritrea was erasing the historical fabric of Eritrea while proponents believe that these new Regional boundaries would ease historical land disputes. [cite news | title = Eritrea to have 6 administrative regions | language = English | publisher = Eritrea Profile | date = 1995-05-20] Furthermore proponents of this policy argue that basing boundaries on an important natural resource would ease the planning of its use.

Governance

Each region has a locally elected regional assembly while the local administrator is appointed by the President of Eritrea. During Cabinet meetings the President also meets with the Regional Administrators who report on the activities of their regions.

The Regional Assemblies are charged with developing a budget for local programs and hearing the concerns of the local populations. Local programs included cultural events, infrastructure such as feeder roads, and to promote afforestation.

Regions

References