National spirit shines as Central Ethiopia region rallies to celebrate GERD inauguration

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2025 (FMC) — A massive rally was held today in the Central Ethiopia Region to celebrate the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a landmark achievement hailed as a symbol of Ethiopia’s resilience, unity, and future prosperity.

Organized under the theme “We Are Strong Together,” the gathering drew thousands of participants who expressed unwavering solidarity with the government’s efforts to secure national development through self-reliance.

Crowds carried banners and echoed slogans underscoring the dam’s historic importance. Chants such as “The GERD is the symbol of our prosperity,” “Our dam is the foundation of our unity,” and “A united hand for the dam leads to national progress” filled the rally grounds, highlighting the sense of shared ownership and national pride.

Participants emphasized that the GERD was built entirely through the determination and contributions of Ethiopians, reflecting the nation’s capacity to overcome challenges without external financing.

Many described the dam as both the foundation of Ethiopia’s nationalism and a testament to its African identity.

The rally in the Central Ethiopia regional state is one of several celebrations being staged across the country since the official inauguration of the GERD earlier this month, marking a new chapter in Ethiopia’s drive toward sustainable energy and economic transformation.