By HAFTU GEBREGZIABHER
“When we set out to build a Dam on the Nile, we said from the beginning that we did not want to make the river our own. When we want to get the benefits that we deserve, we are also thinking that like Ethiopia, the other gifts of the Nile – Sudan and Egypt will use the river in their respective ways. We stand with the truth, build with our own truth and without causing significant harm to the other riparian states. On this firm stance, we are able to complete the 3rd round of water filling at the scheduled time. Congratulations to all who share the Nile river. Just as the Nile River has connected the three countries for thousands of years, the dam built on it allows us to live in cooperation with our neighbors. It is known that as the dam prevents sedimentation, it will reduce the amount of wealth and human lives lost in the downstream countries due to floods. Beyond that, we will share the electricity generated by the dam – as a source of energy, the beautiful scenery on top of the water – as entertainment, the fish that swim in the water – as food, with our neighbors and the world,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD).
“The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) opens the door of diplomacy for us to cooperate more with the countries of the Nile basin. And today, the third round of the dam filling has been completed. The dam for Ethiopian has more meaning beyond providing power. It is the demonstration that we Ethiopians can work and achieve what we need to work. This big dam of ours has no gender, no religion, no different race, and no different color. It is just an Ethiopian dam,” President Sahlework Zewde.
“This success is a historic success and victory that we Ethiopians brought together,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mokonnen.
“The fullness of our hearts, the base of our unity, the emblem of our Ethiopianism, the courage and energy of our far-reaching dreams, the showcase of our era of change is that the start of the second turbine power generation and successful completion of the 3rd round filling of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). May the Creator bless Ethiopia and its people,” Addis Ababa City Mayor Adanech Abiebie.
“Congratulations once again to all Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia. The third filling of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has been successfully completed. The secret behind this success is that when Ethiopians move in unity and work together for a common goal, even if we go through tough challenges, we will inevitably be able to achieve victory and success. May the Creator bless Ethiopia and its people,” Abraham Belay (PhD), Minister of Defense.
The Ethiopian Herald August 13/2022
