EmbassyMedia - Alemseged Tesfai Premier Book Launch in London!

On April 26, 2025, London, UK, hosted the premier book launch for "An African People's Quest for Freedom and Justice." The event featured Alemseged Tesfai, a distinguished lawyer and historian, as the book's author.

The launch was attended by representatives from Eritrean community organisations, scholars, and guests, highlighting the book's significance in addressing themes of freedom and justice in Africa. At the outset of the book, Mr. Ahmed Mamoud, Chairman of the British Eritrean Communities & Organisation Network, delivered a welcoming speech. He conveyed his best wishes to the author and historian in his remarks, acknowledging their contributions. Additionally, Mr. Salih Abdella, Chargé d'Affaires at the Embassy of the State of Eritrea to the UK and Ireland, offered his welcoming comments. He expressed appreciation for the author's dedicated efforts in researching and documenting the history of Eritrea over the years.

Mr. Suleman Hassen, Head of Consular Affairs, provided an insightful briefing during the event. He shared his reflections on the first meeting with Alemseged Tesfay in Sahel, a significant moment 50 years ago during the struggle for independence. Additionally, Mr. Yafet Zerou delivered a book review.

Alemseged is a prominent figure known for his contributions to Eritrean literature, encompassing historical narratives, novels, essays, and dramas. His passion for writing was significantly shaped by his experiences, where he noticed a lack of literature authored by Eritreans. In response, Alemseged dedicated his life to creating the literature he felt was missing during his formative years. One of his most acclaimed works is "Aynifelale," the first volume of what would become a three-volume historical narrative focused on colonial Eritrea. This meticulously researched book covers the period from 1941 to 1950 and was first published in 2001. Many consider it a modern Eritrean masterpiece due to its in-depth exploration of the country's history. Alemseged's writing underscores the importance of documenting Eritrea's history as a vital means of reclaiming and reinforcing Eritrean identity. Through his extensive work, he has made significant strides in establishing a literary landscape that reflects Eritrean experiences and perspectives.

Alemseged Tesfai's new book, "An African People's Quest for Freedom and Justice," is essential for anyone interested in African history. Written by an African author, this vital work delves into the origins of the Eritrean independence struggle using previously unexplored local sources, including written documents and oral histories. The book critically analyses these sources in the context of the limited literature on this significant period. By shifting the narrative focus, Tesfai highlights the actions, reactions, and aspirations of Eritrea—a small nation both in size and population—as it sought to rectify the international injustices imposed by the dominant powers of the time.

Alemseged Tesfai will present his book to International African Scholars at an open-to-the-public event in the UK. He is also set to embark on a tour that will take him to the US and Europe.