Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – The Chief Administrator of the Southwest Ethiopia People’s Regional State, Negash Wagesho, has described the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a historic symbol where the heroism and victories of the Ethiopian people are inscribed in “bright colors.”
A region-wide mass rally was held this morning, including in Bonga City, under the theme “We Are Strong Together” to celebrate the completion and inauguration of the GERD.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Administrator Negash emphasized that despite decades of colonial-era restrictions aimed at preventing Ethiopia from utilizing its natural resources, the country had broken through those barriers and built the Renaissance Dam — a project he called “the seal of our unity,” realized through “sweat and sacrifice.”
“When Ethiopians stand together, nothing can stop us from advancing our development,” he said, stressing that the dam was achieved because the nation produced leaders and a people who do not compromise on Ethiopia’s interests.
He added that the completion of the GERD is both a testament to national unity and a foundation for undertaking even greater projects in the future.
For his part, Kaffa Zone Chief Administrator Endashaw Kebede also addressed the rally, noting that Ethiopia had succeeded in completing the GERD by overcoming both external pressures and internal challenges.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Kaffa Zone for their enduring support during the dam’s construction and urged continued unity in supporting other major national projects.
The GERD, inaugurated on September 9 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is celebrated as the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa and a symbol of Ethiopia’s determination to transform its future through self-reliance and collective resolve.