In this important book on the present situation and prospects of agriculture in post-independent Eritrea, Tesla Gebremedhin emphasizes the crucial role of this sector in the overall social and economic growth and development of the country. This is a timely book that addresses issues of economic recovery, widespread poverty, deep-rooted underdevelopment, women's rights, and progressive environmental degradation in the newly independent African nation. A comprehensive review of the characteristics of the technical and institutional constraints and economic potentials of agriculture for development is presented in detail. Appropriate strategy and practical policy options for achieving and maintaining sustainable agriculture and rural development are thoroughly discussed. The book also provides rigorous economic analysis and valuable insights into development dynamics of an agrarian society which are relevant to any developing country. In addition, in-depth examination is made of the country's historical social institutions and economic structures, its traditional and conventional systems of land tenure and land-use policy, and the current perspective of local administration. Tesfa has made an important contribution to the understanding of the agricultural sector as it relates to the economic and political development of post-independent Eritrea. The book concludes with significant policy recommendations for consideration by decision-makers as well as development workers.