   HAMSET Programme to tackle the challenges of HIV/AIDS, Malaria. STD and TB Universalization of primary education through mother tongue education Human Resource Development Scheme (HRDS) 245. Demographic considerations also featured in economic infrastructure, industry, sociocultural services, administrative establishments and the decentralization of investment opportunities to all parts of Eritrea. In this respect, bridging the gap in level of development of the regions of the country has been targeted. Furthermore, more than 70% of the people live in rural areas and depend on inefficient traditional practices of agriculture and fishery. This limiting factor has been given continuous focus to bridge the rural/urban disparity and develop the coastal areas. Eritrea enjoys marine resources along the 1300 km coastline and 362 islands. Accordingly, the Integrated Rural Development and Coastal Development Programmes have been initiated and expanded in the last 18 years. 246. The Integrated rural schemes heavily emphasizes in the transformation of agriculture. In line to the soil and water conservation efforts and the construction of numerous dams, agricultural schemes based on modernization, mechanization, irrigation and linked to agroindustrial processing are emerging but more investment will be needed. Household farming, micro credit schemes and self-financing initiatives have thus been promoted to empower the most disadvantaged in the rural areas. The scheme has shown progress in the promotion of dignified life and cultural progress and will continue as priority. 247. The Coastal Development Programme has also been expanded but much more is needed to maximize the utilization of the potential. In essence, it is an innovative venture promoting integrated, multi-sector and coordinated effort that raises the participation and benefits of the people. The strategy also serves to maximize the utilization of the comparative advantages of the coastal areas and fits into the policy of economic diversification. The effort is also intended to lay the foundation for the long term transformation of Eritrean ports into economic hubs for the region and beyond. Accordingly, upgrading of port facilities, development of targeted manufacturing, economic infrastructure and establishment of export free zone is taking shape. Effort to raise the contribution of the fishing sector and maritime and coastal tourism has also been ongoing, but progress has been limited due to lack of viable investment and infrastructure challenges. In general, there is a long way to go but in spite of the prevailing challenges, the initial steps are promising. 248. The equitable distribution of wealth and resources also targets the vulnerable groups of the society. The special attention to promote all-round progress in all ethnic groups is addressing marginalization and the unequal development opportunities that persisted during colonial eras. Women equality and empowerment, promoting the welfare and development of children and the development of persons with disability has also been strengthened. But all these raise the importance on mastery of Eritrea‟s wealth and opportunities. Page 61 of 100