Central Region, also known as the
Ma'ekel or
Maakel Region is an administrative region (or zoba) in central
Eritrea. The region was formed on 15 April 1996, from the
historical province of
Hamasien. The region is located on the central plateau, and sits at an average of about above sea level. It contains
Asmara, the capital and largest city of Eritrea. The region is divided into
subregions;
Berikh,
Ghala Nefhi,
North Eastern,
North Western,
Serejaka,
South Eastern and
South Western, while Asmara forms a separate administrative area. Other settlements within the Central Region include Himbirti, Emba Derho and
Tsazega. The region's administrator is Major General Ramadan Osman Awliyai.