Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Inaugurates Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2025 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today officially inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a landmark project symbolizing Ethiopian national unity and a broader Pan-African vision.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the GERD site, was attended by top Ethiopian officials, including Speaker of the House of Federation Mr. Agegnehu Teshager, Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Mr. Tagese Chafo, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Head of the Coordination Center for Democracy Building with the Rank of Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Adem Farah, former Prime Minister Mr. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Demeke Mekonnen, regional governors, and ministers.

Several international dignitaries were also present, reflecting the project’s regional and global significance. They included Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti; Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of South Sudan; Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of Somalia; William Samoei Ruto, President of Kenya; Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados; Russell Mmiso Dlamini, Prime Minister of Eswatini; Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission; and Claver Gatete, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

As Ethiopia officially marks the commissioning of Africa’s largest hydropower project, the GERD reflects not only the country’s engineering and developmental achievements but also the collective Pan-African aspiration for empowerment and self-reliant progress across the continent.

The GERD, more than just a physical structure, stands as a powerful emblem of Pan-Africanism, demonstrating Africa’s ability to achieve its development goals independently.

The project highlights the continent’s potential for self-reliance and represents a shift from a narrative of dependency toward one of self-determination and capability. It serves as a tangible example of a shared African dream, realized through the collective will and effort of its people, echoing principles of Pan-African unity and empowerment.