Commemoration of 25th anniversary of beginning of Bidawiet radio program

Barentu, 22 April 2026 – The 25th anniversary of the launch of the Bidawiet-language radio program on the Voice of the Masses (Dimtsi Hafash) was commemorated on 17 and 18 April at Aderser, Forto-Sawa sub-zone, in the Gash Barka Region.

At the event, discussion was conducted focused on the revival of Bidawiet culture, the significance of mother-language education, the eradication of harmful practices, as well as women’s participation in education and in the Bidawiet radio program.

The commemorative event was attended by Ambassador Mahmud Ali Hirui, Governor of Gash Barka Region; Col. Yonas Betsu’amlak, Commander of Border Patrol Command; religious leaders; village elders; and invited Sudanese guests.

Mr. Girmay Berhe, Director General of Radio at the Ministry of Information, said that the Government of Eritrea, considering the significance of media outlets in the daily lives of society and in the nation-building process, has initiated radio programs in all languages of the country, and that the Bidawiet-language radio program is one of the outcomes of that effort.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Mahmud Ali Hirui called for reinforced participation and contribution from members of the ethnic group for the development of the radio program, as well as in the eradication of practices that negatively affect socio-economic and cultural life.

Mr. Bekit Slah, head of the Bidawiet radio program, presented a report on the journey of the program over the past 25 years and called for reinforced participation in its development.

Research papers were also presented focusing on Bidawiet-language education, preservation of noble societal values and eradication of harmful practices, cultural development and challenges, as well as the role and participation of women.