Ethiopia Inaugurates Grand Renaissance Dam Amid Regional Water Concerns

Ethiopia Inaugurates Grand Renaissance Dam Amid Regional Water Concerns
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Ethiopia is set to inaugurate the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile, promising to double the country’s electricity output by producing over 5,000 megawatts, Arab News reported. The dam, under construction since 2011, aims to provide power to more than 100 million Ethiopians and export electricity to neighboring countries, boosting regional development.

Locals like Fanuse Adete, a mother of seven near Addis Ababa, anticipate improved living conditions with access to electricity, replacing reliance on kerosene lamps and firewood. “Our entire community is now happy,” she said.

However, the dam has raised tensions with downstream countries Egypt and Sudan. Egypt fears reduced Nile water flow could lead to drought, while Sudan warns of risks from uncoordinated water releases. Egyptian experts report reduced water availability, prompting conservation measures.

Ethiopian Water Minister Habtamu Itefa emphasized cooperation, proposing joint investment projects across Nile Basin countries. He highlighted that water levels downstream during dry seasons have increased, benefiting irrigation.

Hydropolitics expert Yacob Arsano stressed the need for dialogue between upstream and downstream nations to manage shared water resources effectively.

For Ethiopians, the dam represents hope for development and improved electricity access, as expressed by Addis Ababa resident Amakelech Debalke: “We want to see more development and more electricity in our daily life.”