Introduction / History

There are Eritreans of Tigre origins living in the U.K. They are the second largest Eritrean people group after the Tigrinya. They are mainly Muslims and in Eritrea are mainly nomads. They speak the Tigre language as well as English in the U.K. There is an Eritrean and Tigre Welfare Association in London who help Tigre Eritreans in the U.K.

The Eritreans are one of the smaller immigrant groups from Africa living in the U.K. Eritreans first came here in the early 1960s when the Eritreans went to war with Ethiopia regarding Eritrean independence. In the late 1980s and early 1990s more Eritrean immigrants came to the U.K. just before Eritrea got its independence from Ethiopia. Many of them leave their country for a better life abroad. They live mainly in London but also in Manchester, Sheffield, Liverpool and Leeds.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There are many Eritrean restaurants and churches in the U.K. These are mainly in the London region.

The Eritrean immigrants in Britain have had a large part in Eritrean independence and for an end to fighting in Eritrea. There are many Eritrean cafes as well as restaurants in London. They serve traditional food such as Zigini which is a special stew. Coffee is also special to them and they prepare it with a ceremony and it can take about an hour to make.

What Are Their Beliefs?

At least nine languages are spoken in Eritrea and there is one used specifically for matters of religion. Almost all Eritrean Tigre are Muslim.

What Are Their Needs?

Eritrea has had big economic problems and more Eritreans have applied to live in the U.K. in recent times. Those who arrive need help with language issues, housing and job hunting.

Prayer Points

Pray that the problems in Eritrea will cause the Tigre to give their lives to Jesus Christ and that Eritrean Christians in the U.K. will give the gospel message to the Tigre there.

Scripture Prayers for the Tigre, Eritrean in Sudan.

References

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/eritreans_ in_the_united_kingdom