Which Eritrean peoples traditionally live as pastoralists?

Several ethnic groups in Eritrea traditionally follow a pastoralist way of life, primarily inhabiting the eastern and western lowlands where they rely on livestock, though many also practice opportunistic agriculture when conditions allow.12

The following groups are identified as pastoralists:

• Afar: Living in the southern coastal region, the Afar are a pastoral people who have historically developed their lifestyle into full-scale nomadism.13
• Saho: These pastoralists occupy the eastern flanks of the plateau and the coastal strip south of Massawa.1
• Beja: The dominant people of the western plains, the Beja are traditionally pastoralists.1

Additionally, the Rashaida are an Arabic-speaking group of nomads who traverse the northern hills; they are noted as being the only group in Eritrea that is truly nomadic. While these groups are pastoralists, it is important to note that most pastoralist populations in the Eritrean lowlands supplement their livelihoods by cultivating crops when seasonal weather permits.12