General
Statement by The Delegation of the State of Eritrea at the 87th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) 11-20 May 2026, On agenda item 3. “Human Rights Situation in Africa”
https://shabait.com/2026/05/13/79639/
May 13, 2026
Mr. Chairperson,
Honorable Commissioners,
Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my honor to address this august session on behalf of the State of Eritrea.
Few days from now, on 24th of May, Eritrea will celebrate the 35th Anniversary of its Independence, under the theme ‘Our Resilience: Our Guarantee’. In celebrating this momentous occasion, Eritreans renew their oath to fulfill the Martyrs’ vision by building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Mr. Chairperson,
The Government of Eritrea remains firmly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights through a people-oriented and holistic approach. Despite the turbulent regional and international environment, and facing persistent external pressures, Eritrea has continued to register tangible progress in key sectors directly linked to improving the wellbeing and living standards of its people.
• Safeguarding the Right to Food, Water, and Sustainable Environment
Mr. Chairperson,
Eritrea continues to prioritize sustainable agriculture, water and soil conservation, and environmental protection. In 2025, extensive soil and water conservation activities were carried out on farmlands and catchment areas. More than half a million hectares of land were cultivated. Advances were also recorded in poultry development, fishery and food diversification programs.
Water remains one of Eritrea’s highest national priorities. As a country located within the Sahelian belt and characterized by arid and semi-arid conditions, Eritrea faces considerable environmental and climatic challenges. Nonetheless, sustained national investment and community participation have produced encouraging results.
At independence in 1991, only about 13 percent of the population had access to safe and clean drinking water, it has now increased to approximately 85 percent. This progress has been underpinned by major investments in dams, water reservoirs, and distribution systems. Whereas Eritrea had only 138 dams and ponds at independence, the number today exceeds 850.
Moreover, important progress has been achieved in sanitation and hygiene. Approximately 93 percent of Eritrea’s villages have been declared open-defecation free, compared to about 32 percent in 2015.
Environmental protection and sustainable natural resource management remain central national priorities.
• Promoting Improved Health Care for All
Mr. Chairperson,
The right to health is one of the top priorities of Eritrea’s development agenda. The strategic plan of the health sector for 2026-2030, aims at enhancing universal health coverage, and strengthening health services through an improved system.
Investments in healthcare infrastructure, maternal health services, sanitation, vaccination campaigns, and safe water access have contributed to improved public health outcomes nationwide. Community-based health programs, preventive healthcare initiatives, and public awareness campaigns continue to play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery, especially in rural and remote areas. The country’s integrated and preventive approach to health services remains anchored in equity, accessibility, and social inclusion. In 2025, major progress was achieved in eye treatments and surgeries, for patients from all parts of the country.
• Expanding Access and Improving Quality of Education
Mr. Chairperson,
Eritrea continues to regard education as a fundamental human right and a key pillar for national development. Eritrea provides free education to all its citizens from Kindergarten up to tertiary education. Steady efforts have been made to expand educational infrastructure, and strengthen equitable access to education for children across urban and rural areas alike.
The Government also continues to invest in vocational training, teacher development, and inclusive educational opportunities aimed at empowering youth and enhancing human capital development. In a bid to increase quality of education and the competence of students, Eritrea is introducing new teaching methodologies and evaluation mechanisms.
• Reforming the Legal System
Eritrea is currently engaged in effecting a comprehensive legal reform framework towards building a robust and functional national legal system. This reform process involves a systematic audit and revision of core normative frameworks, including the Civil and Penal Codes along with their respective procedural codes and other sectoral laws. These laws are expected to reflect national values, aspirations, relevant history, and treaty obligations.
Mr. Chairperson,
• Multi-Sectoral Efforts to Promote and Protect Human Rights
Additional progress has also been recorded in a range of other sectors, including the Government’s continued support to vulnerable citizens and families of martyrs; the Micro-Credit and Savings Program, which has provided loans to nearly one million individuals nationwide; and the expansion of access to electricity, contributing to improved quality of life and increased productivity.
Mr. Chairperson,
Eritrea’s achievements in the promotion of human rights are deeply rooted in the principles of social justice, and strong community participation. Community-led infrastructure development and public mobilization campaigns continue to serve as important mechanisms for advancing sustainable development and ensuring local ownership of national programs.
While acknowledging the progress achieved, Eritrea remains fully aware that several challenges persist. Nevertheless, Eritrea remains committed to continuing its people-centered development trajectory, strengthening national institutions, expanding access to essential services, and enhancing the realization of all human rights for its people.
In conclusion, Eritrea reiterates its commitment to constructive engagement and cooperation with the ACHPR.
I thank you, Mr. Chairperson.
13 May 2026
Banjul, The Gambia
