Ethiopia’s Completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Marks a Milestone in Regional Cooperation

Addis Ababa — The finalization of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), slated for completion within the next seven months, is a testament to Ethiopia’s adherence to its principle of causing no significant harm to neighboring riparian countries. Ustath Jemal Beshir, President of Kings of Abbay Media, in an exclusive interview with ENA, stated that the completion of the dam showcases Ethiopia’s commitment to mutual benefit and non-harm in its use of the Abbay River resources.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, The construction of the GERD, funded entirely by Ethiopians from various walks of life, reflects the country’s determination to overcome poverty and foster cooperation with neighboring nations. The dam, upon becoming fully operational, is poised to become Africa’s largest hydropower project, with an installed capacity of 5,150 MW. This development not only signifies a leap towards Ethiopia’s energy self-sufficiency but also promises to offer affordable electric power to countries in the region, including Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti, and potentially Tanzania.

Beshir emphasized the historical underutilization of the Abbay River by Ethiopia and the need for a new era of cooperation and shared development among the riparian states. The GERD is expected to regulate river flow, thereby aiding downstream countries in managing their water resources more effectively and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The project’s completion is seen as a pivotal moment for regional development, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts for sustainable progress.