Sudden Hope

So much has happened recently that it’s hard to remember that this year started out with great apprehension. Less than a year ago words like state of emergency, unrest, and Internet shutdown played big roles in the nation’s lexicon. Who would believe that now we are talking telecom discounts, Eritrean ports, reunited Diaspora, peace and reform. (See our year review on page 34)
To be sure there are still problems crying for solutions but this year seems different. To be sure there are cynics but at least there is a new effort toward inclusiveness and dialogue. Even though many are struggling, there are hopes the economy will improve as forex is starting to come into the country and the region appears headed for stability. Did anyone think that Ethiopia would be reuniting with Eritrea or that former prisoners or the estranged would return? A lot can happen in a year.