The victory at Adwa is a historical milestone that will be celebrated across generations. It is renowned not merely for the triumph itself, but for the extraordinary circumstances under which it occurred. On one side stood a well-armed force equipped with modern weaponry; on the other, a resolute army fueled solely by patriotism and the indomitable spirit instilled by Emperor Menelik II.
Adwa forged a profound historical connection, not just for Ethiopia, but for the entirety of Africa. It demonstrated that African people could prevail against colonial powers on the battlefield, marking a transformative moment in global politics. British newspapers proclaimed that following the victory at Adwa, world history was irrevocably altered, igniting a formidable spirit of resistance across the African continent.
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, Emperor Menelik II, who is often credited with the establishment of modern Ethiopia, became a symbol of the freedom struggle for black peoples worldwide, even in his absence during pivotal moments of the conflict.
Yet, despite this monumental victory, poverty has hindered our ability to fully realize the legacy that emerged from it. Just as the generation at Adwa united to repel invaders, the present generation has rallied to construct the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), embodying what can be termed the Second Victory of Adwa.
Indeed, the dam is nearing completion, poised to generate an average of 15,759 gigawatt-hours of energy annually. This substantial output will significantly enhance the national electricity grid, facilitating access to electricity for underserved rural communities and increasing coverage from the current 44 percent to an ambitious 90 percent.
The creation of a vast artificial lake with a capacity of 74 billion cubic meters across an area of 1,874 square kilometers will foster local transportation through canoe and boat services and promote fish farming. Furthermore, this lake is set to become a world-renowned tourist destination.
The newly formed lake and its islands will serve as a sanctuary for numerous lakeside bird species, creating an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds. This project will not only bolster the country’s energy generation capacity but also contribute to Ethiopia’s energy export ambitions.
Moreover, the GERD represents a commitment to environmental sustainability, as hydroelectric power generation is inherently carbon-free, thereby aiding in the protection of our planet.
The construction of the dam has seen the active participation of Ethiopians alongside citizens from various nations. Ethiopian workers are significantly contributing to the transfer of knowledge and technology, collaborating with skilled professionals from developed countries. This partnership has enabled them to acquire valuable expertise and operational experience in large-scale project execution.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the path to this victory has not been without sacrifice. Over the past fourteen years, the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has cost the lives of fifteen thousand Ethiopians. Such sacrifices remind us that no victory is achieved without hardship, and it is essential to honor this reality as we move forward.
In this time of challenge, let us disregard those who seek to divide us and stand united. Like the victory at Adwa, the GERD symbolizes a unique triumph—not just for Ethiopia, but for Africa as a whole. It is a testament to our resilience and a beacon of hope for future generations. Together, we shall rise and celebrate this monumental achievement, affirming that the GERD is not merely a project; it is a shared heritage and a collective aspiration of 130 million heroic Ethiopians.
As such the entire people of Ethiopia, from all walks of life, have contributed in various types of resources for the construction of the dam throughout the years. They have shown their ownership and commitment to the dam by offering free financial, labor and knowledge contributions, and moral support. Non-one other than Ethiopians and people of Ethiopian origins can claim ownership of the dam.
Of course, friends of Ethiopians have also supported in different ways and stood by the side of the people. Yet , it is due to tell the truth that the poor Ethiopians who own even a meager income should be acknowledged for their unreserved efforts of pooling their pennies out of their eagerness to see the dam completed and gone operational.
No one can snatch this gallant credit from the destitute Ethiopians for financing this one of the world’s giant dams which has now passed through 14 years of formidable twists and turns to be inaugurated.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE 2025
