But in their fight for independence, Eritreans have learned the value of public relations. Now, while the Ethiopian government refuses to grant international press access to the front line, Eritrea offers guided tours. Fighters in the trenches are accustomed to journalists. They know what kinds of shots the foreign photographers are looking for, and they aim to please. Daily life continues in Asmara, despite the ongoing threat of war just 60 miles away.
Young girls jump rope in a street.
Their tactics have paid off. Genet and Alganesh were featured in Paris Match,'' Mekonnen Woldeyesus says of two female fighters stationed at Tserona, his voice tinged with pride. But these women aren't just pretty faces, and the front line is no fashion show. Although during lulls in action they cook and wash clothes, in the heat of battle, they're in the trenches dodging bullets with the men. A single woman who adopted a daughter, she marches to her own beat.