The Abbay Hydro Dam project stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s ambitious vision for harnessing hydroelectric potential and transforming the nation’s energy landscape through the utilization of its water resources. Currently, with active participation from Ethiopians at all levels, the project has reached significant milestones, drawing international attention and sparking diplomatic discussions.
Every Ethiopian from all walks of life has played an irreplaceable role and contributed significantly to reach the Dam project to its current position. And the effective completion of the Dam will have tremendous long-term future implications and benefits for Ethiopia. Not only this, the Dam will have substantial economic, environmental, and social impact which finally led to strengthening economic integration and building robust diplomatic ties with neighboring countries and beyond.
From the very beginning, the dam project was designed and developed with a vision of harnessing the potential of the Abbay River; and bringing prosperity to Ethiopia and its people through generating the much-needed electricity. The Dam aims to provide a stable supply of electricity, reduce poverty, and propel Ethiopia towards becoming a regional powerhouse in energy production. It also holds the promise of enhancing water security for the nation and enabling sustainable flow to the downstream countries.
That is why all Ethiopians from all walks of life have rallied behind the project and started backing the construction of this transformative project in every possible way-be it by contributing financially and resources or through purchasing bonds, sharing expertise and manpower, and fostering a sense of national unity and pride.
Recently, Abbay Dan National Coordination Office Deputy Director Fikirte Tamir said that the construction of the Dam has been executed carefully, responsibly and without interruption. Accordingly, the dam has been transferred from water filling to power generation phase in the last four consecutive years.
According to her, some 95 percent of the construction of the Abbay Dam is completed, the coordination office said, urging Ethiopians and foreigners of Ethiopian origin to reinforce their support.
The government has given top priority to the project, which would be an engine to the industrialization of the country. The successful execution of the dam has also created a great enthusiasm among the community in replicating such noble achievement in political, economic and social arenas, she said.
“Apart from generating power, the project, which is also Ethiopia’s policy landmark, is now on the final stage of completion and becoming a means for the society’s social cohesion and common legacy.”
During the briefing, it was indicated that the Dam managed to amass over 42 billion meter cubic water in the past four consecutive water filling phases.
Through holistic participation and support of Ethiopians and foreigners of Ethiopian origin living at home and abroad, the Office has managed to collect over 18.9 billion Birr since the inception of the iconic project, she added.
In this regard, the Office plans to collect 300 million Birr in the 13th year anniversary of the laying of the foundation of the Dam and a total of two billion Birr the current Ethiopian fiscal year. “So far, two turbines have been generating power and others are on the pipeline to produce more.”
“Having graced various income-generating programs including bond week, exhibition, public campaign, and resource mobilization among others, this year’s anniversary is slated to be commemorated under the theme: “Together we can.”
Lauding the unwavering commitment and support made for the project, the Deputy Director urged the public to maintain their support for the best finalization of the mega dam.
Accordingly, the Dam has been a monumental undertaking, progressing through various phases with remarkable speed and efficiency. Despite challenges, significant milestones have been reached, bringing the project closer to completion.
In terms of applying the latest technologies, the project showcases cutting-edge technology and engineering feats, with innovative designs and construction techniques pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in the realm of dam construction.
Moreover, as the construction nears completion, attention turns to assessing the environmental and social impact of the Dam. From implementing eco-friendly practices to ensuring sustainability measures, mitigating the Dam’s footprint on the ecosystem is essential for long-term environmental stewardship.
On his part, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa told local media that the national reform has made the Dam successful by bringing it out of the complex construction process.
In particular, he elaborated that the funds raised by Ethiopians for the Dam had been managed by incompetent contractors and the funds embezzled, he revealed.
The Minister pointed out that the improper project management and deliberate malpractice had a negative impact on the overall construction process and that was a sad moment.
The Minister underscored that the project is a major national project that has taught Ethiopians “we can do miracles” when they stand together.
In sum, the Dam project is a monumental project that has been in the making for over a decade. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is constructed on the Abbay River in Ethiopia, is set to be the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa and will have a significant impact on the region’s energy security and development.
In addition to its economic benefits, the project is also a source of national pride for Ethiopians. The project represents a symbol of unity and resilience for the country, as it has been built entirely with the active participation of Ethiopian engineers, scientists, and workers.
The active participation of Ethiopians in the construction of the Dam has not only accelerated the project’s progress but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among the local population. By being directly involved in the construction of the Dam, Ethiopians have been able to witness firsthand the impact that the project will have on our country’s future. Above all, to realize the successful completion of the Dam, which is a hallmark and an emblem of our unity and identity, we, Ethiopians should further strengthen our support and fulfill our responsibility.
The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) started in April 2011; and the contract was awarded to Salini Costruttori, an Italian industrial company specializing in construction and civil engineering.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 19 MARCH 2024
