Shabait.com (Asmara)
11 August 2008
Asmara — Eritrea Festival 2008 at the national level which was conducted at the Expo grounds concluded yesterday by awarding prizes to regions and individuals who demonstrated excellence in different shows and competitions.
Speaking at the closing ceremony in which ministers, regional administrators, government officials and invited guests took part, Mr. Gideon Fisehaye, head of the holidays coordinating committee's office, pointed out that the holding of festival is playing a vital role in reinforcing national unity and cultural norms. It has also served as a center of cultural heritage and values, education and innovation, as well as one that facilitates the development of artistic works, he added.
Different programs, including regional villages, poetry and writing of novels, painting, works of sculpture and handcraft, traditional wrestling, boxing, creative works, debating and educational villages, among others featured in the course of the 10-day festival.
Out of the 261 songs in all nationality languages of the country that were released from mid 2007 to 2008, the top ten were awarded prizes. Accordingly, the song "Adey Niaki" by singers Temesgen Yared and Tedros Hagos stood first, while veteran artist Teklinkiel Gebru was awarded special prize.
Moreover, a number of individuals who demonstrated excellence in painting, sculpture, debating and novel writing were awarded prizes. The Southern region emerged victorious in the educational village show, while Gash-Barka region was awarded trophy for its impressive performance in traditional sports and games, in addition to standing first in folk dance and musical competition.
Also in the educational villages regarding institutions of higher learning, Abraha Bahta School for the Blind and the Sembel Prisoners Rehabilitation Center were awarded certificates, while the Southern region stood first from branch offices of the Ministry of Education.
Financial awards were also given to 10 best dramas staged at national holiday events in the year 2007/2008. Besides, regions and individuals who participated in different shows and competitions received different incentives.
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