Artistic works that describe nationalism, unity, solidarity, comradeship, heroism… during and after independence played a decisive role in Eritrea. Usually, works of art brought Eritreans together to fight for their country. Above all, it enabled them to build clearly planned (imagined) communities.

During the last years of independence, all Eritreans and friends of Eritrea cheerfully celebrated Independence Day. And now, the whole country and people of Eritrea are celebrating the day that they paid precious lives for.

It is a personal choice of everyone to come downtown and enjoy themselves by celebrating independence. Especially here in the capital, you see many people walking by the major streets such as Martyrs and Liberty. The decorations made by all the institutions add beauty to the streets; flags are everywhere.

Over the last years, May 24 celebrations have been conducted by different programs: major institutions in the country display their product to the public through a carnival that crosses the major streets of Tegadelti, Semaetat and harnet. The administration offices of the sub zones of Asmara also conduct their own arrangements like in other parts of the country.

The programs arranged by the National Holidays Organizing Committee are disseminated through the national media outlets to all Eritreans and enable them celebrate the Day together wherever they are.

Although much is being arranged by the PFDJ, the Government, different institutions, individuals and administrations, we need to celebrate it at household level. People have to make personal arrangements at their houses. The day would be more respected when people start to make homemade arrangements in addition to what is being carried out collectively. It is obvious that there is no Eritrean family that didn’t contribute to liberation. The cost of freedom belongs to all Eritreans, regardless of what they believe or to which ethnic group they belong.

We do not celebrate Independence Day just for fun; we know the cost we paid for our independence; so, making personal arrangements at home would help us to be closely attached and always remember what we paid for that day. Making such activities at home would also help our children always deeply realise the value of May 24.