About Our Community
We unite Eritrean families and friends across Niagara, celebrating culture and supporting each other.
Our Services
Supporting Eritrean families and newcomers in Niagara with care and respect.
Family Aid
Helping Eritrean families access local resources and cultural programs in Niagara.
Youth Support
Engaging young people with mentorship, education, and cultural activities.
Our Moments
Snapshots of community life and shared celebrations.
About Eritrea
Eritrea: A Brief Overview of History, Languages, Customs, and Tribes
History
Eritrea has a long and layered history shaped by ancient civilizations and its strategic position on the Red Sea.
The region was home to the Kingdom of D’mt and later part of the Aksumite Empire, one of the strongest powers in the ancient Horn of Africa.
In the late 1800s, Eritrea became an Italian colony, influencing its architecture and early infrastructure.
After World War II, it was federated with Ethiopia, which eventually led to a long struggle for independence. Eritreans finally achieved independence in 1993 after a UN-supervised referendum.
Languages
Eritrea is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in Africa.
The major languages include Tigrinya, Tigre, and Arabic, along with Afar, Saho, Bilen, Kunama, and Nara.
Most Eritreans grow up speaking more than one language, making multilingualism a natural part of daily life.
Customs and Traditions
Eritrean culture emphasizes respect, family, and community.
The traditional coffee ceremony is a key symbol of hospitality and is one of the most important social customs.
Music and dancing vary between ethnic groups but remain central to celebrations, especially during Independence Day and religious festivals like Meskel.
Tribes and Ethnic Groups
Eritrea officially recognizes nine ethnic groups:
Tigrinya, Tigre, Afar, Saho, Bilen, Kunama, Nara, Rashaida, and Hidareb.
Each group has its own traditions, clothing styles, and dialects.
Despite their diversity, these groups share a strong national identity shaped by history and collective resilience.
Get in Touch
Reach out to connect with our community team.