PEOPLE
Eritrea's
population comprises nine ethnic groups, most of which speak Semitic
or Cushitic languages. The Tigrinya and Tigre make up four-fifths
of the population and speak different, but related and somewhat
mutually intelligible, Semitic languages. In general, most of
the Christians live in the highlands, while Muslims and adherents
of traditional beliefs live in lowland regions. Tigrinya and Arabic
are the most frequently used languages for commercial and official
transactions, but English is widely spoken and is the language
used for secondary and university education.
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Eritrean(s).
Population (2004 est.): 3.6 million.
Annual growth rate: 2.5%.
Ethnic groups: Tigrinya 50%, Tigre 31.4%, Saho 5%, Afar 5%, Beja 2.5%, Bilen 2.1%, Kunama 2%, Nara 1.5%, and Rashaida 0.5%.
Religions: Christian 50%, mostly Orthodox, Muslim 48%, indigenous beliefs 2%.
Education: Years compulsory--none. Attendance--elementary (net 2002) 45.2%; secondary (net 2002) 21.2%.
Health: Infant mortality rate (2003)--45/1,000. Life expectancy--52 yrs.
Work force: Agriculture--80%. Industry and commerce--20%.
