Afdeyu - when the priests dance By Felix Nicolier
In the framework of an investigative study conducted by our program
in collaboration with the University of Asmara with regard to the planned
construction of a dam in Afdeyu, discussions with the village people
showed that both local wells urgently needed repair.
Water in both wells was contaminated with cattle excrement, and the
pipe for one of the pumps was rusty, making the water undrinkable. With
active support from the local people, who contributed stone and building
materials, extensive fencing was placed around both wells to keep cattle
away, and the pumps were replaced by modern hand pumps.
The renovated wells were officially opened with a small ceremony. The
village priests also attended, and they performed a ritual dance - according
to the invited guests, this is a rare event, which was underlined by
the advanced age of the dignitaries. However, it shows how valuable
the water supply is in an area like Eritrea that is plagued by drought.
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