Eswatini Commends Ethiopia’s Development Model, Highlights GERD as Regional Asset
Addis Ababa — The Kingdom of Eswatini has publicly commended Ethiopia’s record in delivering large-scale infrastructure, singling out the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a demonstration of national capacity and a potential catalyst for regional integration.
In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Eswatini’s Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela Dlamini, described Ethiopia’s ability to execute mega-projects using domestic resources as “impressive and exemplary.” He identified the GERD, Africa’s largest hydroelectric facility, as clear evidence of what coordinated national effort can achieve.
The minister framed the dam as more than a national project, suggesting it offers a practical model for African nations pursuing greater self-reliance in infrastructure and energy production. “The GERD not only serves Ethiopia but stands as a vital resource for neighboring nations,” Prince Dlamini stated. He emphasized that the electricity generated could benefit countries across the continent, from Southern to Northern Africa, reinforcing economic integration and shared growth through potential energy sharing agreements.
Reflecting on a recent visit, the minister noted visible transformation in Ethiopia since his last trip eight years prior. He cited significant improvements in infrastructure, including roads and water supply systems, as evidence of sustained development progress. “The progress observed is a clear reflection of effective leadership and serves as an inspiring example for other African nations,” he added.
Prince Dlamini specifically praised Ethiopia’s leadership in water sustainability and clean energy, pointing to initiatives in renewable power generation and large-scale afforestation as part of a forward-looking strategy. He further expressed Eswatini’s strong interest in deepening bilateral collaboration with Ethiopia, particularly in the energy sector and other development initiatives, underscoring the importance of African partnerships based on mutual benefit and shared ambition.
The commendation comes as the GERD, while a source of national pride for Ethiopia, has also been subject to ongoing diplomatic discussions with downstream riparian states regarding its filling and operation. Prince Dlamini’s remarks highlight the dam’s perceived potential to shift narratives from contention to cooperative regional development. His focus on Ethiopia’s broader infrastructure momentum suggests a recognition of a development trajectory that extends beyond any single project.
The exchange points to a growing diplomatic emphasis on south-south cooperation, with Eswatini looking to Ethiopia’s experience in mobilizing resources for transformative projects as a reference point for its own development goals. Future collaboration between the two nations in energy and related sectors may signal a practical step toward realizing the regional benefits often associated with the GERD.
