Public rallies are underway across Ethiopia to celebrate the successful completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project hailed as a symbol of national unity and resilience. Residents of the Gedeo Zone in the South Ethiopia Regional State held a support rally, stating that the success of the dam should be a foundation for strengthening other national endeavors. The rally participants carried slogans highlighting the dam's role in bringing Ethiopians together without discrimination.
In Wolaita Sodo city, a major public rally was held with Head of State Tilahun Kebede in attendance. The event celebrated the inauguration of the GERD, which is seen as a testament to the unity, cooperation, and perseverance of all Ethiopians. During the rally, the dam was described as "our second Adwa"and "a symbol of our national pride,"reflecting the determination of the Ethiopian people who overcame numerous internal and external challenges to bring the project to fruition.
This wave of celebrations is not limited to these regions. Similar rallies have been held in other parts of the country, including Amhara, Oromia, and various regional states, since the dam's official inauguration on Monday. The widespread rallies underscore the collective joy and national pride that Ethiopians feel for this project, which was largely financed by the contributions of its own citizens. The rallies, held in different cities and towns, are a vivid expression of the shared victory and a call to apply the same spirit of unity and determination to future development and peace initiatives.