English
Customer reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing graphic documentation from an eye witness
Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2024
I like the graphic presentation from an eye witness and a documentation for posterity.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great book!
Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2024
I am half way reading this great book. The author is highly knowledgable and is very effective in analysing the problems that drove Eritrea to a destructive and the current sad conditions. No one expected Eritrea who achieved miraculous victories, against all odds, would end up to be ruled by a dictator for ~33 years. I highly recommend the book, especially to the Eritreans, who have tried and failed miserably in their ineffective struggle to bring the highly needed change.
5.0 out of 5 stars Well-written book with unique historical perspectives
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2024
If you appreciate reading about history, this book is a must read. The author does a wonderful job of providing historical information with personal perspectives in a way that is easy to read and follow. There aren’t a lot of books about Eritrea and this provides insights into a country where very limited information exists. This is a truly must read for all history lovers, those that follow international and regional politics. And a must read for anyone that is interested in international development and geopolitics.
Personal Yet Data-Driven Examination of Eritreans’ Struggle and post-independence reality
Reviewed in the United States on September 10, 2024
Semere Solomon’s Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations is an insightful, deeply personal, and rigorously researched account that sheds light on the long and arduous struggle for Eritrea’s independence, followed by the country’s complex post-liberation challenges. Through his six decades of active involvement as a freedom fighter, government official, and international development practitioner, Solomon combines firsthand experience with mixed-methods research to deliver a powerful narrative that informs, challenges, and inspires.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its approach and research methods. Solomon expertly merges his personal experiences with quantitative and qualitative data to analyze the roots, paths, and outcomes of Eritrea’s struggle for self-determination. By weaving in first-hand accounts with geo-political and historical contexts, the author gives the reader a nuanced understanding of the nation’s journey. His ability to integrate primary sources, statistics, and personal reflections offers readers not only historical insight but also useful lessons on nation-building, governance, and international diplomacy.
Among the most compelling elements of the book is Solomon’s ten-year hypothesis, which, though not fully developed, presents a fascinating pattern in Eritrean political history. According to this hypothesis, significant political milestones—both triumphs and setbacks—occur roughly every ten years. These milestones include moments of unity and fragmentation, alliance-building, and dissolution. While the theoretical underpinnings of this hypothesis could be further elaborated, it serves as a thought-provoking framework for understanding Eritrea’s political evolution. It also provides a lens through which readers can grapple with the country’s future trajectory, giving a useful handle to wrestle with the region’s complex history and uncertain future.
Perhaps most inspiring is Solomon’s demonstration of personal determination, resilience, and hope amidst the challenges faced by Eritrea. While the book does not shy away from accounting for the grim realities and ongoing struggles, Solomon’s own story is a powerful antidote to cynicism. His measured analysis is not merely a critique of Eritrea’s present predicament but a testament to the courage, resilience, and agility required in the face of adversity. His example serves as a beacon of hope for Eritreans and others facing similar struggles for justice, freedom, and progress.
Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations is an important contribution to the literature on African liberation movements and post-independence governance. Semere not only provides a robust historical and political analysis of Eritrea’s struggles but also offers valuable lessons in perseverance and hope. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in African politics, international development, and the enduring power of human resilience.
5.0 out of 5 stars Hope for a Resilient Eritrea
Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2024
Semere Solomon’s book, Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations, is a compelling blend of memoir, history, and hope, detailing Eritrea’s struggle for independence and its post-liberation challenges from 1960 to 2020. Drawing from his extensive experience as a freedom fighter, government official, and global development expert, Solomon provides a nuanced analysis enriched with personal anecdotes, quantitative and qualitative data, and geopolitical context. His ten-year hypothesis on Eritrean political milestones and his unwavering moral integrity offers profound insights into the nation’s journey. Solomon merges his extensive development experience with the case of Eritrea, and provides a rich tapestry, which informs, challenges, and inspires. His narrative doesn’t shy away from the grim realities and ongoing struggles but also serves as a powerful testament to the courage and resilience required in the face of adversity. His story is a beacon of hope for Eritreans and others fighting for justice, freedom, and progress. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in African history, political economy, and the enduring power of human resilience, highlighting both the lost opportunities and the enduring hope for Eritrea’s future.
5.0 out of 5 stars A must to read book: The Sacrifice of The Eritrean Struggle and Unmet Expectations
Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2024
Semere Solomon’s book, titled Eritrea’s Hard-Won Independence and Unmet Expectations, is a powerful reflection of his personal experiences and the immense sacrifices made by Eritrean freedom fighters in the struggle for independence. Rooted in firsthand accounts, the book explores the aspirations of the Eritrean people and provides an in-depth analysis of the persistent challenges the nation has faced. Semere presents the complex journey of Eritrea, navigating the difficulties of achieving unity, stability, and progress amid a challenging geopolitical backdrop.
The book is well-researched, with a clear and logical flow of chapters that guide the reader through Eritrea’s historical struggle. Semere employs a compelling writing style that keeps readers engaged, using personal anecdotes, real-life examples, and case studies to add depth to the narrative. His in-depth analysis, backed by tailored data, provides a thorough exploration of the sacrifices made by Eritrean men and women while also addressing the ongoing struggles with geopolitical pressures, internal governance issues, and the broader difficulties of nation-building efforts.
What sets this book apart is the author’s unique contribution before and after independence, offering firsthand insights into the nation’s transformative phases. His perspective as an author, deep thinker, and practitioner adds authenticity and richness to the story, highlighting a history filled with struggle, hope, memoir, and enduring challenges.
For anyone interested in Eritrea’s fight for independence and its unmet expectations, both the English and Tigrigna versions of Semere’s book are invaluable resources. I highly encourage everyone to support the author by purchasing this enlightening and thought-provoking work.
5.0 out of 5 stars Important insights into a little known country
Reviewed in the United States on September 9, 2024
Eritrea’s Hard Won Independence is an important book about an important development project-how high hopes of progress can be hijacked by a dictator. At its founding in 1993 there were high hopes for Eritrea as an example of a country seeking self-determination and independence. As the author, Semere Solomon, writes, within a few years the country spiraled into one-man rule, political repression, and no improvement in the lives of its citizens. And that is the situation with Eritrea today.
What makes this book worth reading is that it is also the story of the author. Mr. Solomon had been a supported of the independence movement from its early years, to the degree that he was a freedom fighter. After independence he was appointed to high level positions within the education ministry. But he also was a man with high moral standards, and soon fell out with the government. After fleeing Eritrea, he worked for 30+ years for international agencies, helping rebuild education ministries and systems in other countries emerging from conflict. His writing reflects his experience, what he learned from other situations, and what he believes could have been accomplished in Eritrea under different leadership.
This book is worth reading both for its insight into how the promise of independence was stymied by one man and one party, and for the insight it gives into a person who, despite all, has not surrendered his ideals and values.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great reference Material for Eritrea
Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2024
Semere Solomon’s book offers an in-depth exploration of Eritrea’s colonial history, the prolonged struggle for independence, and the subsequent challenges faced by the nation post-independence. Merging historically significant events with his own firsthand experiences, Solomon, a seasoned freedom fighter turned scholar, provides a unique blend of narrative and analysis, enriching the book with insights only an educated and experienced individual like him could offer. His transition to an international development expert adds further depth to his observations, making the book a rich resource for understanding the complexities of the region’s socio-political environment.
What distinguishes Solomon’s work is his systematic approach to unraveling the complex challenges Eritrea and Eritreans face in the post-independence period. By integrating historical facts with theoretical concepts and eyewitness testimonies, he conducts a thorough investigation into the fundamental issues plaguing the nation. This book goes beyond a simple chronological recounting of events to serve as a critique of the socio-political forces at play, providing insightful commentary on possible solutions. Solomon’s book is not only a must-read for those keen on comprehending the dynamics of liberation movements and nation-building but also an invaluable resource for scholars, activists, and policymakers interested in the broader implications of personalist authoritarian regimes.
5.0 out of 5 stars Eritrea’s past, present, and future
Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2024
From his early days, Semere Solomon has understood the value of freedom, and since his days as a soldier in Eritrea, he has pursued it with every fiber of his being. Not just for himself, but for his community and the people of Eritrea. In his work at Creative Associates International, Semere demonstrated the depth of his knowledge and experience from a life fully lived as a family man, leader, educator, and mentor. Despite personal risk to himself, including physical threats, Semere has continued to strive to do right and for a day when Eritrea can achieve the aspirations of its people for a liberated, well-governed, and prosperous nation. We are proud to stand with Semere as he looks to the future and looks to sharing his experiences with Eritrea’s youth and future leaders, who are longing to make sense of the past and see to fruition their common goals for a better life of freedom and peace.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic Read
Reviewed in the United States on September 23, 2024
I have had the book for over a month and it has taken me awhile to write an adequate review. Semere’s work makes you want to read, think and come back to it again and again. Relating to the struggle memories, nostalgia and challenges of every day life to the complexities of the liberation front and his experience are what makes this book a fantastic read. I highly recommend this book for Eritrea lovers, political enthusiasts and future scholars on the country and in between.
Bereket Desta
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for anyone who wants to understand Eritrea or the Horn of Africa
Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2024
Semere Solomon’s book is a combination memoir and history of Eritrea from 1960 until 2020. Semere has lived the American dream having a successful career in global development. At the same time, Semere’s story weave in the tragedy of the lost opportunities of Eritrea developing more because of its political system. Solomon knows many of the folks who have shaped Eritrea. He fought along side them in the 1970s and 1980s. He brings his international development experience to the case of Eritrea. It is a unique book and I encourage folks to read.
mogos
5.0 out of 5 stars Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and unmet expectations
Reviewed in Canada on September 6, 2024
I’m not usually one for writing long reviews because I tend to lack the patience to craft a detailed response before jumping to the next book. However, for this book, I feel compelled to give it the attention it deserves. When I come across something truly special, it would be inexcusable not to properly convey my admiration.
“A Long Walk to Freedom” reflects the heavy price paid by a nation for its freedom, and this is captured with great depth in this book. If I had highlighted all the quotes I found impactful, the list alone could fill pages. Without a doubt, this is one of the most powerful and moving books I’ve read.
One particular quote resonated deeply with me: “Nurture, rather than nature, is the primary molder of person.” “It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are, that shapes us.” Another poignant line was: “I wondered—not for the first time—whether one was ever justified in sacrificing the welfare of one’s own family to fight for the welfare of others. Can there be anything more important than looking after one’s aging mother?”
This sentiment brings me to Semere Solomon’s remarkable story. He and his four brothers joined the Eritrean struggle for independence, with two of them tragically lost in action. His youngest brother languished under the Isaias regime, a reality too painful to fully comprehend, with no words to justify the loss.
A Summary of Eritrean Struggle: This book offers a brief but impactful summary of the Eritrean struggle for independence, based on Mr. Solomon’s personal life journey. It’s an invaluable resource for academics, students interested in African history, political economy, and more specifically, the Horn of Africa. It is particularly insightful for Eritrean youth, human rights activists, and future Eritrean leaders, as it provides a deep understanding of Eritrea’s political culture, organizational history, and the challenges faced.
Objective and Balanced: Unlike many other books written by veterans of either ELF or EPLF, which can often be driven by anger or grievance, Mr. Solomon maintains an impressive level of objectivity. He accepts responsibility for his role and even apologizes publicly for the suffering the ruling party (PFDJ) brought to the people of Eritrea after independence.
Moral Integrity: Throughout the book, Mr. Solomon demonstrates his unwavering moral values. Despite immense personal challenges, including imprisonment, he never compromised his beliefs or principles. His story of resilience and moral courage is truly inspiring.
A Personal Reflection: As someone who has been active in Eritrean political activism for the last 20 years, I have often felt disillusioned by the lack of progress and the fragmentation within diaspora organizations. This book, however, rekindled my hope. The logical sequence of events, the objective nature of the narrative, and the wealth of experience shared in the book make it a healing tool for the current generation of Eritrean youth, and a guide for future leaders.
Leadership and Vision: Mr. Solomon’s leadership abilities, from military commander to the manager of the education directorate, showcase his unique capacity to drive positive change. His vision for the Eritrean education system was forward-thinking, and it’s unfortunate that he was pushed out of his homeland, resulting in a lost opportunity for the nation.
A Must-Read: I believe this book should be read by everyone, regardless of where their interests lie. Even if you find parts of it too political or struggle with the suffering described, the story of Mr. Solomon’s patience and perseverance is worth experiencing. The book emphasizes that it’s the journey, not just the destination, that matters.
Semere’s successful career as a UN staff member as well as working in several USAID run programs all over the world after such hardship is phenomenal—a testament to human resilience.
Prepare to be moved, especially when reading the touching letter Semere received from his mother. I look forward to reading the Tigrinya version, as the emotions expressed will undoubtedly resonate even more deeply in his native language.
Thank you, Semere Solomon, for gifting this generation with such a treasure, connecting the dots from the Axumite kingdom to present-day Eritrea.
Mogos Yakob
Bisrat M.
5.0 out of 5 stars Revelations of a Former Eritrean Freedom Fighter
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 20, 2024
Revelations of a Former Eritrean Freedom Fighter
To learn how a nation can spiral into a self-destructive vortex of paranoia one should read Semere Solomon’s new book “Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations,” which presents factual accounts based on his personal experiences in the battlefields of Eritrea as well as post-independence Eritrea.
This informative account is an attestation to readers not only the author is an excellent writer but also a deep thinker. He is a first-hand witness to juxtapose the essence of the armed struggle and what ensued after the costly revolution. In other words, the book is a testimonial to his fallen comrades; and a stern rebuke to the leadership that killed the Eritrean dream.
In his book Semere has eloquently articulated the core causes that turned Eritrea up-side-down. His assessments and arguments are exceedingly credible and ingeniously coherent due to the fact that he himself lived through, as it were, the tough times as Eritrea’s dreams morphed into nightmares.
This is the kind of book that needs to be translated into local languages to provide Eritrean readers not only with an insight on how and why Eritrea failed to realise its potential, but also to offer them food for thought – with a wider range of ideas, knowledge, and perspectives for the much needed reforms.
Furthermore, the book is an honest and impassioned account of what went wrong in Eritrea, and what can be done to resuscitate it.
For the record, Semere is an ex-freedom fighter who sacrificed his youth to liberate Eritrea by actively taking part in the struggle for independence and served seven years in post-independence Eritrea as a civil servant.
Eritrea’s present-day hollow existence was not in the script, as far as the author is concerned. The costly struggle was meant to usher in a peaceful, prosperous and democratic Eritrea. On the contrary, as Semere’s research took stock of the country’s current standing, Eritrea turned into a secretive, paranoid and imperious state.
Semere spells out that as far as he is concerned the buck stops with President Isaias Afwerki for all the deprivations took place on his watch. Moreover, the Isaias factor, as the author puts it, which can be characterised by his ruthlessness and brute force, gave rise to the prevalent atmosphere of subservience.
What is more, he argues, the country has become a spitting image of its leader, the condescending and aloof ruler who surreptitiously took the helm and ruled it with a heavy hand since independence – i.e. for over thirty years. Traits such as secrecy, paranoid nationalism, tactlessness, malice, presumptuousness, and more can be cited as some of his personal features that are projected on his administration, which eventually turned into a den of inequities. Simply put, the author sums up how the outcome of that unruliness is exhibited in Eritrea’s subsequent seclusion.
Additionally, the author explains that not only did the international community shun Eritrea for its human rights abuses; the diaspora has also stayed away from it due to various misgivings. For example, public participation was very high during the liberation struggle. As a matter of fact, many analysts assert the fact without the significant contributions of the Eritrean diaspora, independence would have never been realised. But unfortunately, after independence the masses were considerably thwarted by the administration as if they did not have rights to take part in the political processes that determined the country’s future.
One can argue that the international community noticed how Eritreans were short-changed by their own government; and this prejudice, the author stated, ended up isolating the state. Ultimately, Eritrea was given a rare designation used on unique states such as North Korea – it became known as ‘the north Korea of Africa’.
Fairly enough, Semere highlighted the factors that contributed to the country’s independence by giving credit to martyred comrades, and by keeping their individual histories alive. Not only did he recount that independence was the direct outcome of their sacrifices, but he also showed how their sacrifices were eventually betrayed by the current regime that continually exploited martyrdom to its advantage.
The fast-paced narratives are captivating. Semere’s approaches cover all aspects of the Eritrean ways of life – from the perspectives of veteran combatants, civil servants, the diaspora, the opposition, the dumbfounded domestic constituents, the international communities, regional countries and aid agencies.
His accounts expose the regime’s declarations, reports, bearings and ‘achievements’ are nothing but a set of remarkable display of smoke and mirrors. To put it differently – as the title of the book indicates, – ‘Eritrea’s hard-won independence’ ushered in ‘unmet expectations’.
The author clearly highlighted his reflections, personal experiences, assembled concepts, in-depth evaluations of Eritrea’s policies, the origins of the armed struggle and various accounts concerning the EPLF/PFDJ’s culpabilities. The best part of the first section concerns the author’s depiction of Eritrea’s standings from the point of view of various international institutions. Basically, he showed that Eritrea is lagging behind the rest of Africa on many fronts.
The latter section consists of nuggets of wisdom and information not only about his time when he took part in the armed struggle, served Eritrea as a civilian, but how he later decided to distance himself from the regime and started a new life after he found out the negative moral and political trajectories the country took after liberation.
The author did not quietly fade into obscurity after he left Eritrea for good. Many former combatants left the government of Isaias Afwerki in disgust and sank into obscurity. But it is fascinating to read how Semere, after he left Eritrea, rose from the ashes of the struggle with renewed energy to reconstruct his beleaguered life.
In his ‘second life’ he campaigned hard to highlight the blunders of the regime of Isaias Afwerki. He was not confined to campaigning for the rights of Eritreans; he, as the back-cover blurb states, ‘pursued further advanced degrees and embarked on a career in global development, amassing over twenty-five years of rich experience. His professional footprint spans across diverse regions including Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Central Asia’.
On top of leading a successful career abroad, he and his beloved wife managed to raise a family of three.
A Summary of the Book
The 318 pages book has 21 chapters, two sets of photographs, numerous appendices, plus a long conclusion which comprises some theoretical assumptions and facts.
The first few chapters provide a set of reflections on how Eritrea’s independence came about and the hopes and expectations it brought with it.
It was followed by a summary of the leadership’s degeneracies; and how things went down a slippery slope soon after the president started, rather recklessly, to vie for ‘the Gold Medal’ – to preserve himself as the sole bigwig in the country. The narrative is buttressed by how ‘a parade of horribles’ took place that led the country to its current state of affairs.
Moreover, the initial chapters provide accounts from domestic and international perspectives on how the country’s wayward direction has come to pass; and more, how the government neglected its domestic and diaspora affairs, triggering a mass exodus of its youth not only to neighbouring countries but far beyond its neighbourhood.
One can say it is an account that describes mistakes that were committed during the armed struggle, the Spartan lifestyle (a fiercely regimented one) that was introduced to suit the leadership after the struggle was over, the self-centred and exclusionist policies the regime put in place through PFDJ’s efforts, how an austere life dawned in liberated Eritrea, the unpalatable state of affairs that are prevalent in the country now, the various mini-rebellions that arose since independence, how the regime trounced on ‘deviant’ reform seeking citizens, and, by all means, the inevitability of change that awaits around the corner.
Semere also delves into how Ethiopia came back into the picture after decades of armed struggle, numerous conflicts, tedious campaigns that took citizens in dizzying circles and then suddenly Ethiopia was ‘added’ (through the process of Abiy’s መደመር) to the list of friends… as if histories of both countries did not matter.
Furthermore, he looked into the current condition of the opposition camp and the petty discords that divides them; and then went on to depicting the nature of the impassioned youth, identified as the ‘Blue Wave’, as intrepid, and their daring efforts as gutsy.
Towards the end of the book, what stands out is Semere’s positivity regarding what is in store for Eritrea. One can say the author is an optimist who does not simply disregard the obstacles that are blocking change, but contending to crush them for the sake of the country’s promising future.
Reviewer’s Reflections
I sat down for a long time after reading the chapters in quick succession. The various episodes I read about in the book reverberated around me. I thought about a particular photograph I saw in the book – a martyred schoolmate of mine who stood tall among us when we were young boys.
Well, he is gone, and I am still here as Eritrea is limping off the field. All I could think about was how life is not only strange but also unfair.
Ex-combatants usually use the ‘we’ pronoun rather that the first person singular in their writings. Semere’s usage of the pronouns is straight forward. He took ownership of his accounts by using the ‘I’ pronoun throughout the book. While he deserves praise for that endeavour, he, like the others, was frugal in some aspects of his personal accounts.
We, as readers, deserve to know more about the simple facts of life, and the ordinary lives of our fellow Eritreans who fell for ‘la patria’.
Dawit Mesfin
Shiden Solomon
5.0 out of 5 stars This book transcends conventional historical narratives.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 20, 2024
Semere Solomon’s “Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations” transcends conventional historical narratives, offering not just a retelling of the Eritrean struggle for independence, but a profound analysis of its aftermath and a blueprint for a brighter future. Unlike a mere biography or historical account, Solomon’s work dissects where the trajectory veered off course, scrutinizing the challenges faced by post-independence Eritrea and advocating for essential reforms.
The book meticulously examines three major dimensions: the roots of Eritrea’s post-independence challenges, missed opportunities by the current government to safeguard hard-won independence, and crucial steps necessary to avert similar pitfalls in the future. Solomon provides a nuanced perspective on the events leading to Eritrea’s independence, honouring the sacrifices of its people while shedding light on the unforeseen emergence of authoritarianism in the nation.
Throughout the narrative, Solomon maintains a commendable neutrality, acknowledging the contributions of various factions like the EPLF, ELF, and the populace, while also recognizing the impact of global political shifts of the 90’s. He fearlessly confronts subjects such as the widespread abuse of combatants’ rights, shedding light on the psychological toll inflicted upon those who fought for liberation.
One of the book’s compelling aspects is its exploration of the Eritrean civil war, drawing from Solomon’s first-hand experiences as a member of a mediation committee. His revelation that ideological differences were minimal between warring factions underscores the complexities of historical events, prompting a deeper examination of the nation’s past.
Furthermore, Solomon deftly intertwines historical events with socioeconomic shifts in Eritrea and the surrounding region, tracing the evolution of a national identity from tribal and feudal roots to a unified force during the struggle for independence. Yet, he laments how this fervour was exploited and squandered in the post-independence era, leading to widespread destitution and misery among the populace.
By providing personal anecdotes and historical accounts, Solomon exposes the mechanisms through which dictatorship takes root, casting a critical eye on the current Eritrean government. His unbiased assessment invites readers to draw their own conclusions while serving as a cautionary tale for future generations, urging vigilance against authoritarian tendencies.
In essence, “Eritrea’s Hard-won Independence and Unmet Expectations” is not just a historical chronicle; it is a call to action, challenging readers to learn from past mistakes and strive for a more just and equitable future for Eritrea. Solomon’s insightful analysis and impassioned plea for change make this book essential reading for anyone concerned with the nation’s trajectory.
—Dr. Shiden Solomon
Post-doctoral Research Fellow,
Molecular and Cellular Neuroscientist, King’s College, UK
I am honored to have had an opportunity to review this important work. It comes at a time when the whole world is concerned about what happens after conflict and nations have an opportunity to be formed or to rise up over the ashes of conflict to create a haven for its citizens, one that is nurturing and on the path to thrive. This book, from the perspective of a once hopeful freedom fighter, tells the story of what happened in clear terms. It is informed by a wealth of firsthand and deeply researched knowledge of the situation of someone who has spent his life and career to being a development practitioner. Anybody who seeks insight into the phenomena of why and how “things fall apart” must read this book. I highly recommend it.
—Sharon T. Freeman, Ph.D.
President, Gems of Wisdom Consulting, Inc., USA
This book is a gem and thank you for writing it! I hope my generation fully appreciates and takes in all the lessons to be learned. It is very rare to have a multi-dimensional history for one of the most isolated nation-states be documented, much less complemented by personal accounts. I am a proud Eritrean American whose family contributed to the fight for Eritrea’s independence. The fascinating aspect of this book is that it is our history, our story, and one that we are NOT done writing. It is my dream that in my lifetime, I will get the opportunity to travel freely to Eritrea with my children
and share our rich and proud culture with them. I am hopeful because to not be is simply painful!
—Miriam Yohannes, Consumer Affairs and
Outreach Division Chief, USA
Semere Solomon’s book is truly a reflection of the man whom I have known, trusted, and admired for almost 11 years. Meticulous in his research and unwavering in his commitment to facts about Eritrea’s decades-long struggles for independence and a new national identity, Semere also intertwines his personal accounts as an idealist and a soldier on the frontlines. Frequently, those who are part of a major political, military or social event write a book to settle scores with old adversaries or rewrite history to serve their own personal needs. Fortunately, “Eritra’s Hard-Won Independence and Unmet Expectations” is not that kind of book. It is a unique, insider’s view of aspiration, war, sacrifice, hope, and disillusionment. The book does not end with Semere’s exile. Semere intertwines his life after Eritrea to which he dedicated nearly three decades as an outstanding development practitioner in Iraq, Zambia, Pakistan, Central Asia, Ethiopia, and Nigeria—always with an eye to what his homeland could have been like. The hopes and desires of a true idealist never fade.
—Michael Zamba, Senior Director, Communications,
Creative Associates International, USA
This book stands as a significant literary contribution, not only for its eloquent portrayal of the author’s personal and professional journey but also for its profound impact on the discourse of Eritrea and its future. It has the potential to ignite a cascade of thought-provoking discussions and inspire positive actions. The commitment of Semere Solomon to the Eritrean cause, coupled with his optimistic vision for the future of Eritrea as a nation, serves as an inspiring narrative. In essence, the book is not just a personal memoir but a catalyst for a broader literary exploration of challenges and solutions. I am confident that the impact of this work will
extend beyond its pages, encouraging other Eritreans to share their narratives and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the pressing issues of our time.
—Yussuf Hassen,
Stockholm, Sweden
I wanted to take a moment to let you know that I have finished reading your book, and I must say, it was an absolute delight. I couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishment. Your talent as a writer shines through on every page, and I have no doubt that this is just the beginning of a remarkable literary journey for you. I eagerly await the release of your future books, as I know they will be just as incredible as this one.
—Negasi S. Abraha, USA
Semere Solomon dedicated twenty-four years of his life to the birth and development of Eritrea, a small nation in the Horn of Africa, located just north of Ethiopia. He credits the courage and perseverance of, both, the ELF and the EPLF for Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia’s control. In doing so, he even acknowledges the mistakes the fronts made along the way and offers an alternative approach rooted in first principles. His ability to publicly, yet thoroughly, reflect on past history (the good and the bad) is commendable, respectable, and inspiring.
He doesn’t blame any one party or individual for the current state of Eritrea —which is important when discussing sensitive and complex topics involving human beings with a myriad of perspectives. Instead, Solomon takes the reader back in time, from the 1940s to the 1990s, and then propels them forward into the future (or present) and meticulously dissects the constellation of variables that contributed to the current state of Eritrea. Answering the “how did we get here” question. This is a wonderful read for anyone interested in a nuanced and sober analysis of Eritrea within a historical, political, social, and cultural context.
Thank you, Mr. Solomon, for eloquently and honestly articulating your very unique, precious, and valuable perspective. The world is better for it.
—Seble S. Solomon, USA