Almost all Ethiopians had been wailing for decades for the river that had never been tamed at home but the source of prosperity for other countries. Most songs and poems that had been composed to the river Abbay were centering on its wild nature. However, 14 years ago all Ethiopians heard unexpected news that “Ethiopia has laid the cornerstone to build a Dam that can be used as a source of unity and prosperity”. This was truly more than surprising news to all Ethiopians. This news had also borne a doubt within the mind of most Ethiopians for most Ethiopians had felt there was no sufficient financial muscle to build the Dam. However, this and doubt faded away immediately and every Ethiopian started to show unreserved effort for its successful accomplishment.
Ethiopia is always considered as the roof of Africa for its geographical location and its topography has provided the nation with an abundant supply of rainfall that can be used either for agricultural production or for hydroelectric power generation. However, several factors had prevented the nation from proper utilization of this natural resource for economic progress. Financial, technical and diplomatic huddles were the major ones. However, with the conception of the GERD, Ethiopians started to hope for a better future and recognized the need for large-scale hydroelectric projects to address its energy.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is arguably the most significant project in Ethiopia’s modern history, standing as a beacon of national pride. The dam was constructed to harness the Blue Nile River’s vast potential, providing a substantial boost to Ethiopia’s electricity generation capacity.
While the dam encapsulates Ethiopia`s aspiration it has not been without contention, particularly in relation to downstream countries, Sudan and Egypt. Both nations had been expressing baseless concerns over the water security and the potential impacts on the Nile River. Nevertheless, because of the diplomatic effort of the government and the public concern to its successful accomplishment effective results are witnessed within the past years.
In a country where many citizens live in poverty, the GERD has galvanized public support and collective action. The Ethiopian government has appealed to citizens for financial contributions to fund the construction of the dam, leading to substantial public participation in raising funds. This rallying cry for financial backing was not merely a practical means to support the project but also a unifying call that tapped into a deep desire for progress and self-sufficiency.
Fundraising campaigns have attracted contributions from all segments of society, including diaspora communities around the globe who view the GERD as integral to Ethiopia’s future. This broad-based support has fostered a sense of pride and ownership among citizens, further reinforcing their commitment to national development endeavors.
While the Ethiopian populace has rallied behind the ambitious project, contributing both financially and emotionally to its success issues such as corruption and internal treachery have posed significant challenges to GERD’s progress. These factors have largely hindered efforts aimed at realizing the dam’s full potential, particularly prior to the political reforms that marked the end of the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) regime. The advent of the new political system ushered in a new era, one that promised to transform the political and economic landscape of the nation and at the heart of these transformative changes is Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), a visionary leader whose ascent to power in 2018 marked a turning point for Ethiopia.
Following his assentation into power, Abiy has brought a new perspective to the challenges faced by the nation, both at home and abroad. His leadership has been instrumental in addressing the issues that have historically plagued major projects like the GERD.
Since taking office, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has taken bold steps to enhance the diplomatic efforts surrounding the GERD. Understanding that collaboration and dialogue are crucial to the success of such a colossal undertaking, he has fostered dialogue with neighboring nations, particularly Sudan and Egypt, which have historically expressed concerns over the dam’s impact on their own water supplies. By initiating bilateral discussions and engaging with international stakeholders, Prime Minister Abiy has worked to create a framework for cooperative water management that can alleviate regional tensions.
Moreover, the Prime Minister’s administration has been committed to sidelining corruption, a critical step toward ensuring that the resources allocated for the dam and its associated infrastructure are utilized effectively. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, the government aims to restore public trust and galvanize support for the GERD. This commitment is evident in various measures implemented by the Prosperity Party, including stricter regulations and oversight mechanisms that aim to minimize corrupt practices in public projects.
Under Abiy’s leadership, Ethiopia has also made significant strides in political and economic reform. The Prime Minister has sought to liberalize the economy, inviting both local and foreign investments, which are crucial for the successful completion of the GERD and the overall development of the nation. In doing so, the government has embarked on an ambitious plan that emphasizes sustainable growth, job creation, and infrastructural development.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s vision for Ethiopia extends beyond the GERD. He seeks to harness its potential as a catalyst for broader economic transformation, ensuring that the nation can benefit from the energy produced by the dam. The successful completion of the GERD has the potential not only to provide electricity to millions of Ethiopians but also to position Ethiopia as a regional energy hub, potentially exporting electricity to neighboring countries and thus creating economic opportunities.
In conclusion, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is emblematic of Ethiopia’s aspirations and struggles. While corruption and treason have historically threatened its progress, the political reforms initiated under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have garnered renewed hope for the project. His leadership in fostering regional dialogue and implementing reforms has laid a foundation that could steer Ethiopia toward a prosperous future.
The road ahead will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges, but with a united national spirit and a commitment to transparency and cooperation, Ethiopia stands poised to realize its dream of a modern, energy-rich nation, with the GERD as its cornerstone. As the dam nears completion, the world watches with bated breath, awaiting the dawn of a new chapter in Ethiopia’s remarkable journey.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 6 APRIL 2025
