New Delhi, September 10: A monumental chapter in African infrastructure opened on September 9 as Ethiopia officially inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), now the continent’s largest hydroelectric project. The GERD, spanning nearly two kilometers across the Blue Nile and towering around 170 meters high, boasts a reservoir capacity of some 74 billion cubic meters. Its projected power output of 5,150 megawatts—over twice Ethiopia’s current electricity generation—catapults the country toward self-sufficiency and energy export capability.
Celebration at the Ethiopian Embassy in New Delhi
The Ethiopian community in India marked the historic moment with a cultural celebration at the Embassy of Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in New Delhi, blending the spirit of the Ethiopian New Year with the symbolic inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
The event, carried the theme “Bizhanet is the Jewel of Ethiopia”, capturing the pride and resilience of a nation that has completed a monumental 14-year journey of construction.
In his opening speech, Ambassador Fesseha Shawel, Head of the Ethiopian Mission in India, reflected on Ethiopia’s historic legacy. He recalled how the forefathers safeguarded the country’s sovereignty and unity through the Victory of Adwa, passing down an enduring spirit of resilience to the present generation.
“This generation,” he said, “has turned a tale into history. The completion of the Grand Renaissance Dam after 14 years is not just an engineering feat—it is a testament to Ethiopia’s determination, leadership, knowledge, and unity.” He congratulated the people of Ethiopia and dedicated the achievement to future generations, expressing collective joy with the words: “We are happy.”
Celebrating Unity and Diversity
The Mission highlighted that the dam’s success was possible due to the leadership of Ethiopia, the contributions of professionals, the financial sacrifices of ordinary citizens, and the role of digital media in mobilizing support. Ambassador Shawel extended gratitude to all Ethiopians at home and abroad, acknowledging both direct and indirect contributions.
The program featured a panel discussion and a quiz competition centered on Ethiopia’s journey—exploring themes such as “The Beauty of Diversity,” “The Power of Social Unity,” and the significance of completing the GERD as a national milestone.
Students and Dignitaries in Attendance
The celebration brought together a diverse audience, including Ethiopian students enrolled in Indian universities, officials from governmental and non-governmental organizations, and invited guests from the diplomatic and academic community in New Delhi.
The gathering not only commemorated the inauguration of the Grand Renaissance Dam but also symbolized Ethiopia’s ability to transform challenges into triumphs. For participants, the event carried a dual significance—welcoming a new Ethiopian year while also embracing a new chapter in the nation’s history of progress and resilience.
(Photographs courtesy: Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Ethiopia)