Ethiopia has officially declared the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project that has been under construction since 2011 and has sparked regional tensions over Nile water rights.
The Ethiopian government described the milestone as a historic achievement that will boost the country’s energy production and drive economic development.
“The completion of the GERD marks a new era for Ethiopia’s growth and self-sufficiency,” said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in a televised statement on Wednesday.
Regional Reactions and Water Dispute
The GERD, located near the Sudanese border, has been a source of dispute particularly with downstream countries Egypt and Sudan, who have raised concerns over water security and the dam’s impact on their own agricultural sectors.
Both nations have called for continued negotiations to manage the dam’s operations and mitigate risks of water shortages.
Energy and Economic Impact
Once fully operational, the GERD is expected to generate over 6,000 megawatts of hydroelectric power, positioning Ethiopia as a major energy exporter in East Africa.
Looking Ahead
Ethiopia has pledged to work with regional partners to ensure equitable water sharing and maintain regional stability, even as it celebrates this engineering feat.
