Addis Ababa: The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), constructed by Ethiopians and the Ethiopian Diaspora, serves as a testament to the ability of Ethiopians to mobilize billions for large-scale projects, according to Ethiopian Diaspora Service Director-General Fitsum Arega.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ethiopia has developed the capacity to undertake additional mega projects. Once completed, GERD is expected to generate foreign currency for Ethiopia by exporting electricity to neighboring countries such as Djibouti, Sudan, Kenya, and Tanzania, as noted by the director-general.
The director-general emphasized that upon its completion, GERD will contribute approximately 1 billion USD annually to Ethiopia’s GDP. This economic benefit stems from the renewable power that will illuminate cities, households, and manufacturing industries.
Fitsum, speaking to ENA, elaborated that the impact of GERD will be extensive, providing numerous benefits for Ethiopia and the region, primarily as a source of environmentally friendly, green, and renewable energy. The hydropower energy from GERD is expected to bolster manufacturing industries in the region, facilitate the growth of power-intensive industries, and provide electricity access to nearly 60 million Ethiopians.
Beyond its economic advantages, the dam is anticipated to have a significant impact on education and health by enhancing access to electricity, which in turn facilitates educational opportunities in rural communities and reduces health hazards associated with firewood smoke.
The director-general highlighted that the GERD, built by Ethiopians and the diaspora at a cost exceeding 5 billion US Dollars, exemplifies the capacity of Ethiopians to gather significant resources for such monumental projects. Fitsum concluded by acknowledging the active role of the Ethiopian Diaspora worldwide in mobilizing support for the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam through various efforts.