Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali marked the Ethiopian New Year by celebrating the nation's progress, emphasizing that the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) signifies a historical turning point for the country.
In a message posted on his official social media accounts, the Prime Minister conveyed a powerful message of revival and national pride. He began by wishing citizens a happy new year, noting that it is being celebrated at a time "as Ethiopia begins its revival and as the great Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is inaugurated."
Abiy described the past year as one of undeniable success, attributing key achievements in agriculture, tourism, mining, manufacturing, and the ICT sectors to divine favor and the hard work of the Ethiopian people. He held up the GERD as the ultimate evidence of this potential, stating, "The Renaissance Dam is proof that a nation like Ethiopia, with a people as resilient as Ethiopians, can achieve even greater victories if we work diligently."
The Prime Minister used a series of powerful metaphors to describe the dam's challenging journey. He likened it to a difficult pregnancy, with the final stages being the most dangerous and challenging. "For Ethiopia to birth the Renaissance Dam, a project conceived in the hearts of its people for generations, it was necessary to overcome many trials," he wrote. He described the final moments as a time that demanded immense sacrifice and resilience, where the nation had to "tighten our belts, toughen our resolve, gather our courage, break traps, and overcome death itself." He credited the success to "God, through the steadfastness of our people, the resilience of the project workers, and the sacrifice of our security forces."
Abiy emphasized that the moment was more than just the change of a calendar year; it was "the change of a history." He stated that the dam's completion has reshaped Ethiopia's identity, narrative, and geopolitical standing, making a long-held national dream a reality.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister declared that the new year would be a period to further solidify this revival. He used an eagle analogy to describe Ethiopia's trajectory, explaining that as the nation rises, it will leave behind its challenges. An eagle, he noted, "does not argue or talk with everyone about every little thing," knowing that its ascent will bring greater strength and less friction. He urged citizens to dedicate themselves to work, stating that "the speed and creativity of its children will change Ethiopia."
Abiy’s message also paid tribute to everyone who contributed to the dam's completion, calling them "true children of Ethiopia" who have earned their place in history. He urged the nation to carry this spirit of unity and self-reliance forward.
The message concluded with a hopeful and patriotic blessing: "May Ethiopia, through the efforts of her children, live forever in honor and respect!! May God bless Ethiopia and its people!"
