Asmara — The second phase of Shingrwa music talent competition that ran for an entire year in four different stages concluded today with a final competition among three finalists. The event was broadcast live in Eri-TV and Dimsti Hafash.

In a speech she delivered at the opening of the final competition, the guest of honor, Ms. Askalu Menkerios, the Minister of Tourism, stated that music as part and parcel of cultural activities commands a decisive role in nurturing common understanding and building strong national unity as well as developing progressive ways of thinking. She also added that the role and importance of Shingrwa can be viewed from this perspective.

One of the judges, Mr. Yemane Kidane on his part pointed out that Shingrwa program was from the beginning had set out to help aspiring young people identify and properly use their talents, in addition to adding drive to the gradual development of the art of music in the country.

Stating that about 350 contestants have participated in this year's Shingrwa contest, Mr. Yemane said that 26 participants passed to the second round, 10 to third round and the best three made it to fourth and final phase. He further expressed appreciation to all those who made due contribution for the success of the program in general and the Ministry of Information in particular.

Finally, Minister Askalu Menkerios handed out the prizes to winners-Arafat Hamid 80,000 Nakfa in first place, Abdu Yusuf 50,000 Nakfa in second place and Minas Belay 30,000 Nakfa in third place.