Asmara, November 13, 2025 – Eritrea mourns the profound loss of a national hero, Legendary Artist and Patriot Bereket Mengisteab Bairu, who passed away on November 12 at the age of 84. His extraordinary life, spanning over six decades of artistic and patriotic endeavor, left an indelible mark on Eritrea's cultural fabric and its arduous journey to independence.

Bereket Mengisteab's illustrious artistic career commenced in 1961 when he joined the esteemed Emperor Haile Selassie Theater in Addis Ababa. Demonstrating remarkable talent and dedication, he co-founded the influential music group "Mekaleh Guaila" in 1973 alongside his Eritrean colleagues. Throughout his extensive career, he distinguished himself as a versatile and prolific artist, mastering the roles of vocalist, poet, musician, and composer, and enriching the Eritrean musical heritage with numerous classic songs that continue to resonate deeply with the populace.

Beyond his exceptional artistic talents, Bereket Mengisteab was a fervent patriot whose creations were inextricably linked to Eritrea's struggle for self-determination. His powerful melodies and poignant lyrics served as a potent source of inspiration, significantly contributing to motivating Eritrean youth to join the armed struggle for national independence. His political engagement began early, in 1958, when he became part of the Haraka Movement. Later, in 1975, he formally joined the Eritrean Liberation Front (ELF), where he adeptly served as the head of its Cultural Department until 1979, strategically utilizing art as a crucial instrument for mobilization and public awareness.

Even while residing in Saudi Arabia until 1991, Bereket Mengisteab's commitment to his homeland remained unwavering. He established a musical band named "BM" through which he continued to produce and disseminate songs specifically aimed at raising awareness among Eritrean nationals, both within the country and abroad, regarding the ongoing struggle for independence. His consistent efforts underscored his lifelong devotion to the cause, transcending geographical barriers.

Following Eritrea's hard-won independence, Legendary Artist Bereket continued to contribute his invaluable artistic expertise under the auspices of the Commission of Culture and Sports. In this capacity, he played an active role in the preservation of national sovereignty and the vital process of nation-building, further cementing his legacy as an artist dedicated to his nation's progress and cultural integrity.

Bereket Mengisteab Bairu is survived by his devoted wife and nine children. The funeral service for this revered figure is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 16, at noon at the Asmara Martyrs Cemetery, where the nation will gather to pay its final respects. The Commission of Culture and Sports has conveyed its deep sorrow over his passing and extended its heartfelt condolences to his grieving family and multitude of fans across Eritrea and beyond.