GERD: Ethiopia’s Powerhouse for Growth, Unity, and a New Era of Nile Cooperation

 

By Bruno Aero

Speaking during the press held at The Embassy of Ethiopia in Kenya H.E Ambassador Demeke Atnafu Ambulo The Deputy Head of Mission Embassy of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethopia in Kenya projected and emphasize The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) 

stands as one of Africa’s most transformative infrastructure projects, symbolizing Ethiopia’s vision for sustainable development and regional integration. 

Speaking on the significance of the project, H E, Amb. Demeke Atnafu, a high profile respected  Diplomat at the Ethiopian Embassy in Kenya, emphasized that GERD is not merely a hydroelectric facility but a catalyst for poverty reduction, energy access, and Pan-African cooperation.

Powering Development and Fighting Poverty

With Ethiopia’s population exceeding 120 million—many still lacking reliable electricity—the GERD is set to be a game-changer. Once fully operational, the dam will generate over 5,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, drastically boosting domestic supply while creating surplus energy for export.

“Affordable and reliable electricity will transform rural communities, empower industries, and uplift millions of Ethiopians out of poverty, H E, Amb Demeke Atnafu stated with confidence and accelerating for

Regional Integration through Energy Trade

The GERD also embodies Pan-Africanism in action. Ethiopia is already exporting power to Kenya, Sudan, and Djibouti, with plans to extend supply to Tanzania and South Sudan. This interconnected regional grid will stabilize energy needs, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and foster deeper economic integration.

Challenging Colonial Legacies

For decades, Nile water use was governed by outdated colonial-era treaties that unfairly excluded Ethiopia, despite contributing nearly 85% of the river’s flow. H E, Amb Demeke reiterated Ethiopia’s position that the GERD does not harm downstream nations but rather offers opportunities for regulated water flow, flood reduction, and equitable resource sharing.

“The GERD represents cooperation, not conflict. Egypt and Sudan must move beyond colonial-era entitlements and embrace dialogue that benefits all Nile Basin nations,” he added.

A Turning Point for Africa

As Ethiopia prepares to commission the GERD in September 2025, the project signals a new chapter for Africa’s approach to shared natural resources. By working through the Nile Basin Commission and prioritizing collaboration, Nile riparian countries can ensure equitable water sharing, regional stability, and collective prosperity.