Eritrea - Housing

After 30 years of war, throusands of returning refugees are experiencing a severe housing shortage, particularly in urban areas. Unfortunately, government and economic reform are needed before the housing situation can be fully addressed. Some international aid and foroeign programs have helped ease the situation.

In highland rural communities, most housing is built as a joint project of community members. These homes are generally made from wood, stone, and straw. Rural lowland homes are also made of wood and straw. Nomads build temporary shelters of wood and leaves. Concrete block and wood is generally used in urban housing.