Customs and traditions

In Eritrea, customs and traditions differ according to the region and ethnic group. There are cultural differences, particularly between Christians in the highlands and Muslims in the lowlands. At the same time, the Italian colonial era and the long liberation war contributed to the formation of a shared Eritrean identity, which many people cherish. Despite the harsh living conditions, many people are proud of their country.

Culturally, Eritreans in the highlands are very similar to Ethiopians in the highlands. The Lowland people share customs and traditions with their neighbors across the border in Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Sudan. In general, education and occupation confer status, which allows for relatively easy social mobility. Respect for the elderly is essential.

According to Abbreviationfinder, Eritreans only use first names. The second name that looks like our last name is in fact the father’s first name. Whoever wants to be formal adds ato (sir) before a man’s first name and weizero (wife) before a woman’s name.