09/09/2025
🌊⚡ GERD: A Dream Turned Into Power ⚡🌊
I have been connected to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) since my high school days. I still remember clearly the moment when, as a class, we each contributed ten birr. At that time, it felt like a small gesture—but in truth, it was part of a much bigger dream, one that carried the hope and determination of an entire nation.
As the years passed, my involvement with GERD grew beyond just contributions. I had the honor of sharing my reflections on OBN on three different occasions. Among them, my interview on October 20, 2024 remains vivid in my memory. During that discussion, I spoke about the challenges and principles of using transboundary rivers, focusing on the Nile. I also explained the cooperation agreements signed among the Nile Basin countries, and their direct relevance to Ethiopia’s rightful use of the Nile waters through GERD.
GERD has always been more than concrete, turbines, and water. It is a symbol of resilience—of a people who refused to give up despite pressure, challenges, and obstacles. It is the story of millions of Ethiopians, both inside and outside the country, who contributed their savings, their energy, and their unwavering belief to turn this dream into reality.
And today, as GERD finally stands completed and ready to power Ethiopia’s future, I feel a profound sense of pride and joy. This achievement belongs to every farmer who gave, every student who contributed, every professional who advocated, and every Ethiopian who stood firm. It is proof that when we unite, nothing is impossible.
Congratulations Ethiopia! 🇪🇹💧⚡ May GERD continue to shine as a beacon of unity, progress, and sovereignty for generations to come.