The Ethiopian diaspora community in China has emerged as a staunch supporter of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), bolstering the ambitious project through bond purchases and unwavering commitment.
The Ethiopian Embassy in China recently held a ceremony to express gratitude to the diaspora for their enthusiastic response to the national call for support, highlighting their significant contribution to the dam's construction.
Ambassador Tefera Derbew, the Ethiopian Ambassador to China, lauded the diaspora community's dedication during the appreciation program. He emphasised that the GERD stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts and unwavering determination of Ethiopians both at home and abroad.
"The Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a monumental project, a symbol of our nation's aspirations and a beacon of hope for our future. It is through the combined efforts and unified spirit of Ethiopians that this dream is becoming a reality, Ambassador Tefera stated.
Despite its relatively small size, the Ethiopian diaspora community in China has made a substantial impact on the GERD project.
Ambassador Tefera specifically commended their swift response to national appeals, recognising their financial contributions as vital in propelling the dam's construction forward.
"The Ethiopian Diaspora in China, although small in number, has made a great impact on the construction of the dam by responding quickly to national calls. Your contributions, both big and small, are deeply appreciated and will forever be etched in the history of this nation,” he reiterated.
Furthermore, Ambassador Tefera proudly announced that the Ethiopian Embassy in China had surpassed its designated target for the GERD bond purchase program. This accomplishment underscores the diaspora's commitment to the project and their active participation in Ethiopia's national development.
The success in China reflects a broader trend of Ethiopian diaspora communities worldwide contributing to the GERD. The dam, which aims to generate hydroelectric power and stimulate economic growth in Ethiopia, has become a powerful symbol of national pride and self-reliance.
Members of the Ethiopian diaspora community in China also expressed their enthusiasm for the near completion of the GERD.
They affirmed their readiness to continue supporting national initiatives and fulfilling their civic duties as engaged members of the Ethiopian community, regardless of their geographic location.
The contributions of the Ethiopian diaspora are seen as particularly crucial in light of ongoing international negotiations surrounding the GERD.
Ethiopia maintains that the dam is essential for its development and energy security, while downstream nations, Egypt and Sudan, have expressed concerns about water access.
The Ethiopian government continues to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve these concerns and emphasises its commitment to equitable water resource management. The support from the diaspora, both financially and morally, strengthens Ethiopia's position and demonstrates the nation's unified resolve to complete this landmark project. The successful fundraising efforts in China serve as an example of how diasporas can play a vital role in supporting national development initiatives and contributing to the progress of their homeland.
The Ethiopian government hopes to continue engaging and empowering its diaspora community to contribute to various sectors and ensure sustained national growth.
The GERD, therefore, becomes not just a dam, but a symbol of national unity and the transformative power of collective action, according to the Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing.