Report from a PRA workshop and study in Asmat sub-province, Eritrea. : prepared for Redd Barna through the SSE program

Abstract

The purpose of this report is fourfold.

First, it is a short description and analysis of life in the Asmat Sub-Province in Eritrea. As such it covers the conventional socio-cultural, natural resource management, and forming system assessment of the situation in the area - it includes the headlines one would expect to find. But although the report has been written up by two outsiders it is very much the result of an effort by local extension workers, community leaders and villagers to jointly assess, analyse and report upon their own situation. As such, this report is only the first step on a longjoumey. The role of the outsiders has been that of facilitators and recorders or scribes, not that of traditional experts.

Second, the report covers minutes and reports from a workshop aimed at strengthening local staffs competence in using participatory methods for community development, including communication and project monitoring.

Third, a short discussion lists suitable indicators to monitor project impact with particular reference to food security issues.

Fourth, the reports identifies potential areas for further studies - survey and research topics.

Regrettably, a number of constraints have had an impact on this work, as reported in the section on "Lirnitations of the study". However, in spite ofthese limitations some achievements have been made. Maybe the most important one is that 31 workshop participants and numerous villagers have embarked upon a leaming process that, if successful, will empower them. Not only will it involve them in analysing their own situation, but it will enhance their participation and capabilities in planning their own future.