At the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), leaders from across the Horn of Africa and beyond lauded the project as a testament to African self-determination and regional cooperation. Their speeches highlighted the dam not just as an engineering marvel but as a powerful symbol of unity, a source of regional pride, and a blueprint for a prosperous future.
Eswatini Prime Minister: GERD is a Model of Leadership
Eswatini's Prime Minister, Mswati Dlamini, expressed his amazement at the dam, calling the leadership demonstrated in its completion a model for all of Africa. "Ethiopia and its people have built a great project that is a source of pride for Africa," he stated, adding that the work is a "testimony that speaks for itself."
Dlamini emphasized that his country has much to learn from the "mature leadership of Dr. Abiy Ahmed and the unity of the entire Ethiopian people."
Somali President: The Dam is a Shared Regional Responsibility
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud began his address by calling the day 'a great one' for Ethiopians, who he said have succeeded in developing their national resources through cooperation and unity.
He underscored that the dam is not just a success for one country but a shared responsibility for the entire region. "The dam is a shared destiny for all of us," he stated, adding that discussions about Ethiopia's prosperity should move beyond competition and focus on "coexistence and prospering together." He also stressed the importance of strengthening regional unity and creating linkages for shared prosperity.
South Sudan President: A Symbol of Unity and Commitment
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit described the GERD as more than a project; he called it a "symbol of unity, sacrifice, and commitment." He noted that the dam clearly demonstrates what a nation can achieve when its people unite for a common purpose.
Calling the day a moment of pride for all Africans, President Kiir said the dam is not just about power generation but about "development, hope, and for our children, for whom we have won the future." He concluded by expressing his belief that by standing together, regional challenges can be transformed into opportunities.
