Eritrea: a home for 45 orphan girls

Dear Friends,

In such a conflict-ridden period of human history, our attention continues to be focused on the wars and human rights violations most widely reported by international media. However, Eritrea remains one of the least “talked-about” countries.

Currently, the population is still facing a humanitarian crisis worsened by economic and political factors. The cost of living continues to rise, while essential resources such as food and water in some areas remain difficult to obtain despite the abundant rains of 2024. Restrictions on fundamental rights persist. The situation of women and children remains particularly critical to this day: many young girls are forced into early marriages or recruited by force into compulsory military service, with no possibility to decide their own future.

The healthcare situation is improving, but information is scarce. In fact, the conflict in the Tigray region continues to have devastating repercussions even in Eritrea, and thousands of people are displaced while healthcare infrastructure remains insufficient to provide adequate care, especially for pregnant women and victims of violence. Schools are operating intermittently, and many children are deprived of their right to education, increasing the risk of exploitation and violence.

In her address, Amina Nurhussein, Minister of Health, acknowledged the investments made by the Ministry of Health, local administrations, and international partners in 2024. She urged continued participation in 2025 to achieve even better results. This progress demonstrates that every contribution can make a difference and that the support of our donors is vital to ensuring a better future for the most vulnerable communities.

Despite this difficult context, Aleimar continues to support the local partner in ensuring a safe space for the girls of "Casa Foca." Here, 45 girls and young women find daily protection, education, and a peaceful environment in which to grow. During Christmas, we received updates on the children's progress, thanking you for your continued support. Economic difficulties remain severe, with fathers away due to military service, but thanks to your support, the children are doing well and have a safer future. One girl hosted, S., writes: "Thank you for the support you give me. I am very happy because I was promoted, and next year will be an important year because I will attend the final year of high school."

H. writes: "I am doing well and I was promoted to the penultimate year of high school with excellent grades... next year I will attend the final year of high school and begin military training. Your contribution is needed to pay for school fees, school supplies, and food."

L. writes: "I am doing well, I am very happy because I got good results at school, I am satisfied because I am ranked fifth in the class average. I am very happy in my new school, and the fact that it is closer to my home makes everything easier…I live with my father, who is a war veteran, unfortunately, he was injured and is now disabled. Every evening, we pray for you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support!"

Your support is essential to make all this possible! Every contribution helps improve the quality of life for these girls and offers them a fairer and more protected tomorrow.

Together, we can continue to give them the hope of a brighter future.                                

Thank you!