Just last month, from 24 to 28 February 2025, I had the pleasure of joining the Managing Director, Mr. Deodat Maharaj, on our first mission to Eritrea. This visit was a unique opportunity to engage with key stakeholders on how science, technology, and innovation (STI) can support the country’s development aspirations.

From the moment we arrived, we were met with a warm welcome by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, setting the tone for a productive and insightful mission. The strong support of H.E. Ambassador Sophia Tesfamariam, Eritrea’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, and UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Nahla Valji was instrumental in facilitating high-level and forward-looking discussions which deepened our understanding of the country’s priorities.

Engaging with Government Leaders

Throughout the mission, we had the privilege of meeting with Ministers of Government  to explore how STI can contribute to Eritrea’s long-term growth. Discussions with the Ministry of Education focused on strengthening digital skills, energy infrastructure for schools, and technology-driven capacity building. The Ministry of Agriculture highlighted the need for modern farming techniques and access to credit for small-scale farmers, while the Ministry of Trade and Industry emphasized the importance of technology in boosting SMEs and industrial development. Our engagement with the Ministry of Finance and National Development and the Economic Advisor to the President underscored the critical role of STI in economic planning, particularly in leveraging data for improved decision-making and exploring ways to add value to Eritrea’s rich natural resources.

We are also thankful to the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment, Ministry of Transport and Communication, Ministry of Information, and Commission of Higher Education for taking the time to meet with us and for the valued discussions on the country’s priorities and future engagements.

Strengthening Partnerships with the UN and Development Partners

Beyond our engagement with Government, we met development partners including ambassadors from Türkiye, Egypt, Italy, Sweden and the African Development Bank. These engagements reinforced the view that the UN Technology Bank for LDCs can make a solid contribution to the country working in close concert with the UN Family on the ground.

Harnessing the Power of STI for Sustainable Development

Eritrea holds immense potential to leverage science, technology, and innovation as a driver of sustainable development. From advancing digital education and modernizing industries to enhancing agricultural resilience and its payment system, STI can play a transformative role in accelerating progress across multiple sectors. The mission reaffirmed the importance of fostering partnerships, mobilizing resources, and co-creating solutions that align with the country’s vision for growth.

As a UN Fellow, I feel incredibly privileged to have been part of this mission. Engaging directly with government leaders, UN partners, and key stakeholders provided invaluable insights into Eritrea’s development landscape and the many ways in which the UN Technology Bank can contribute. I look forward to continuing this journey and working towards meaningful collaboration that harness STI for the benefit of the least developed countries.