Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a mega project that marks a significant milestone in the country’s history. The dam, located on the Abay River, has a massive reservoir with a capacity of 74 billion cubic meters of water, named “Nigat Lake” or “Dawn Lake.” According to Prime Minister Abiy, the dam’s completion heralds a new era of prosperity for Ethiopia, bringing with it a wealth greater than the country’s current GDP.
The GERD is the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa, symbolizing self-reliance and hope for the Black world. Its construction, which spanned 14 years, was made possible through the contributions of millions of ordinary citizens, including farmers, daily laborers, students, and civil servants, who purchased bonds and made donations. This feat of engineering and national will was achieved despite the lack of international funding due to geopolitical reasons.
Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that the dam’s completion marks the end of an era of begging for handouts, signaling a new chapter in Ethiopia’s development. He extended an invitation to people from around the world, particularly the Black community, to visit the dam, stating that it is “the biggest mega project in the history of the Black people.” The Prime Minister’s message conveyed a sense of pride and accomplishment, highlighting the dam’s role in awakening Ethiopia from a deep sleep of poverty and darkness.
The GERD’s completion is a testament to Ethiopia’s determination and resilience. The dam is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, providing a reliable source of energy and driving growth. As the nation celebrates this achievement, it is clear that the GERD will play a crucial role in shaping Ethiopia’s future, serving as a symbol of hope and self-reliance for generations to come. With its inauguration, Ethiopia has demonstrated its ability to achieve greatness through collective effort and determination, inspiring others to follow in its footsteps.
