- Raise over 50 mln. USD
ADDIS ABABA– Ethiopian Diasporas have extended holistic support to the Abbay Dam and contributed over 50 million USD for the construction of the iconic project since its launching, the Ethiopian Diaspora Service (EDS) disclosed.
EDS Communication Director Wondwossen Girma told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that Ethiopians and foreigners of Ethiopian origin in the Diaspora have been supporting the building of the dam financially, professionally, and in other ways.
On top of their active engagement in public diplomacy and advocacy activities, Ethiopian Diasporas have been contributing over 50 million USD for the construction of the mega project in bond purchase, donation, and others,
Wondwossen also noted that Diaspora communities from all walks of life have been demonstrating overwhelming participation in public gatherings, discussions with the dam negotiating teams, twitter campaigns, and other kinds of movements to fight the unjustified pressure of some interest groups.
“Accordingly, the Diasporas have held massive demonstrations in major cities across the globe and denounced those groups’ unwarranted pressure and the attempt to block their home country’s aspiration to prosper.”
The Diasporas have also been actively engaged in awareness- raising campaigns on the positive outcomes of the mega dam for the downstream countries and communicating Ethiopia’s commitment to ensure mutual benefits in the utilization of cross-border resources.
He further highlighted that members of the Ethiopian Diaspora have taken part in knowledge and skills transfer and conducting empirical research on the possible impacts of the project that refute the false allegations circling the Abbay Dam.
The director extended calls for increased support for the completion of the dam that has immense capability to transform Ethiopia’s agrarian economy and to expedite development endeavors in their homeland.
It is to be recalled that Ethiopia is currently marking the 13th anniversary of the launching of the mega hydroelectric dam under the theme “Together we can” in various fundraising programs and related events.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 31 MARCH 2024
