In a momentous occasion for the nation, Ustaz Jemal Bashir, as a single Ethiopian individual, expressed profound joy over the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), stating, “We are happy because the dam we nurtured like a child has reached its completion.” This monumental achievement is expected to transform Ethiopia's energy landscape and bolster economic growth, marking a significant milestone in the country’s development trajectory.
The GERD, which has been under construction since 2011 on the Blue Nile River, stands as Africa’s largest hydroelectric project. With an installed capacity of 6,450 megawatts, it is projected to generate more than 15,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. This ambitious endeavour aims not only to meet Ethiopia’s growing energy demands but also to position the country as a regional power hub, exporting electricity to neighbouring nations, according to him.
Ustaz Jamal highlighted the dam’s potential to provide electricity to over 65 million people in Ethiopia who currently lack access to reliable power. “This project is not just a dam; it is a beacon of hope for our people,” he stated during the inauguration ceremony attended by government officials, international dignitaries, and thousands of enthusiastic citizens.
Ustaz emphasised that the GERD will play a pivotal role in driving industrialisation and economic development, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for millions.
The completion of the dam comes after years of negotiations and tensions with downstream countries, particularly Sudan and Egypt, which have expressed concerns about water flow and management.
Despite these challenges, Ustaz Jamal reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to cooperation and dialogue. “We are ready to engage in discussions to ensure that all parties benefit from this vital resource,” he asserted, underscoring Ethiopia’s belief in equitable water use and mutual benefit among Nile Basin countries.
The GERD symbolises not only national pride but also a collective effort by Ethiopians who contributed their labour and resources throughout its construction. Ustaz Jamal reminisced about the early days of the project, describing how it was nurtured with dedication and care, likening it to raising a child. “Today, we celebrate not just the completion of a dam but the realisation of a dream that unites us all,” he said.
As the ceremony unfolded, festivities erupted across Addis Ababa and other cities. Citizens took to the streets waving flags and chanting slogans in support of the project, reflecting a deep sense of national unity and pride. The government has planned a series of events over the coming weeks to commemorate this historic achievement, including public exhibitions showcasing the dam’s engineering marvels and its anticipated impact on communities, he underscored.
Looking ahead, Ustaz emphasised that the successful operation of the GERD will usher in a new era of energy independence for Ethiopia.
He called for continued investment in renewable energy sources and infrastructure development to sustain the momentum generated by this landmark project.
In conclusion, the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam stands as a testament to Ethiopia's aspirations for growth and development.
As Ustaz Jemal Bashir aptly stated, this achievement is not merely about constructing a dam; it represents hope, unity, and a brighter future for generations to come.
