Addis Ababa, September 8, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia celebrated the eve of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) inauguration this evening at the project site in Guba, marking a historic milestone for the nation’s largest hydroelectric project and a symbol of unity and national pride.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), Speaker of the House of Federation Agegnehu Teshager, Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Tagese Chafo, and Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh.
Senior officials including Adem Farah, Head of the Coordination Center for the Prosperity Party, former Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, former Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen, regional governors, and cabinet ministers were also present.
As the celebrations unfolded, the country’s national anthem resonated across the dam site, and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was visibly moved, tears of joy streaming down his face as he witnessed the spectacular festivities.
The eve ceremony featured a variety of grand events, including a breathtaking drone show, dazzling fireworks, and other cultural performances. Senior officials, including the Prime Minister, toured the 1.8-kilometer-long road flanking the dam, highlighting the immense scale and significance of the project.
Ethiopians from across the country took it to the streets to celebrate occasion, reflecting the years of collective effort, advocacy, and sacrifices made to bring the GERD to completion.
The inauguration of the GERD, Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam, is expected to mark the end of long-standing energy challenges and open a new chapter of development, prosperity, and national pride for Ethiopia.
It is also anticpated to be one of key card to solidify regional integration and mutual progress.