Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam hits 95% completion amid objections from downstream nations
This general view shows the site of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in Guba, Ethiopia, on February 19, 2022. - Ethiopia's massive hydro-electric dam project on a tributary of the Nile has raised regional tensions notably with Egypt, which depends on the huge river for 97 percent of its water supply. Government officials said the dam would begin producing electricity on Sunday, more than a decade since work first started. (Photo by Amanuel SILESHI / AFP) (Photo by AMANUEL SILESHI/AFP via Getty Images)
In a press briefing, Fikirte Tamiru, Deputy Director General of the Office of National Coordination for the Construction of GERD, declared that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reached an impressive 95% completion.
Notably, 98% of the civil work and 78% of the electromechanical work have already been finalized.
The upcoming 13th-anniversary celebration of the foundation laying for the GERD project, themed “Together We Made It Possible,” is scheduled to take place at the end of this month.
Fikirte emphasized that the dam is a symbol of national unity, with all Ethiopians reaching a consensus on this monumental hydropower initiative along the Abay River.
During the briefing, Fikirte disclosed that nearly 19 billion Birr has been mobilized through public participation, showcasing the collective effort and support from the Ethiopian population.
She attributed this success to the government’s unwavering commitment, diplomatic efforts, and the backing of the Ethiopian people.
Highlighting the GERD’s significance as a giant national project with a spirit of possibility, Fikirte announced plans for the dam to initiate power generation through its additional turbines.
The 13th-year celebration will feature various events, including bond week, exhibitions, appreciation ceremonies, recognition programs, and resource mobilization activities.
Fikirte concluded the briefing by revealing a target of collecting 300 million Birr in the upcoming campaigns, urging both domestic and international Ethiopians to contribute and strengthen their support for the successful completion of the Grand Renaissance Dam construction.
