Ona and Beskedira Massacres Remembered

Keren, 02 December 2024 – The 54th anniversary of the Ona and Beskedira massacres, perpetrated by enemy forces on hundreds of innocent citizens from the Ona and Beskedira villages on 30 November 1970, was solemnly observed. The remembrance events took place at the Beskedira Mosque, where the massacre occurred, and at the cemetery in Ona, where the victims were laid to rest.

During the events, Mr. Zemehret Yohannes, head of Research and Documentation at the PFDJ, laid wreaths at both the mosque and the cemetery. Mr. Zemehret stated that beyond commemorating the atrocities committed against innocent civilians, the events also highlighted the civility and resilience of the Eritrean people.

Emphasizing that the purpose of remembering these crimes is not to incite hatred or grudges, Mr. Zemehret noted that it serves as a reminder of Eritrea’s history and a call for neighboring countries to learn from the past and strive for a better future.

Mr. Haile Tewoldebrhan, head of the PFDJ in Anseba Region, along with the administrators of Keren and Hamelmalo sub-zones, addressed the gathering and reflected on the significance of the events. Village elders also shared their personal experiences from that time.

Ona, part of the administrative areas of Keren sub-zone, and Beskedira, located 20 kilometers northeast of Keren city, within Hamelmalo sub-zone, stand as enduring symbols of the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence.