September 10, 2025
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is more than concrete and turbines; it is a people’s promise kept. This editorial honors the builders and guardians who turned a national dream into power, pride, and purpose for energy and development.
We salute the patriots, engineers, and workers who labored in harsh conditions; the families who endured absence; and the diaspora and citizens who purchased bonds and donated. Their sacrifice affirmed sovereignty, unity, and self-reliance—proving that Ethiopians can finance and deliver Africa’s largest hydropower project through collective will.
Built by the people, for the people.
In the pages ahead, we reflect on the vision, milestones, and lives behind this monument, and the duty to safeguard its legacy for future generations. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a national trust we must honor and protect.
Background of GERD
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a huge hydropower project built on the Blue Nile River in northwestern Ethiopia. The idea for harnessing the Nile’s power dates back to the 1960s during Emperor Haile Selassie’s reign, but real planning was delayed for decades because of political and financial challenges. Actual construction only began in April 2011, driven by Ethiopia’s urgent need for electricity and development. The GERD is the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa. It stands about 509 feet high, stretches 1.1 miles across, and has a massive total reservoir volume of 74 billion cubic meters.
This national project aims to solve Ethiopia’s acute energy shortage. Most Ethiopians lacked access to electricity when the project began. The GERD is expected to generate up to 6,450 megawatts, doubling Ethiopia’s total electric output. The dam’s construction has faced delays and obstacles, including disputes over funding, technical complexity, political upheaval, and significant pushback from neighboring countries that share the Nile waters. However, Ethiopians remained focused on seeing the dream realized, often financing the project themselves through crowdfunding, bonds, and direct contributions after international loans proved hard to secure.
National Significance and Symbolism
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is more than an energy project for Ethiopia; it is a true monument of national pride. GERD has become a clear symbol of the country’s determination, self-reliance, and vision for a better future. Ethiopians from all walks of life see the dam as proof that their country can achieve big dreams despite hardship. It represents not only the promise of brighter homes and modern industry, but also a renewed confidence in Ethiopia’s sovereignty and independence.
The GERD unites Ethiopians across social, ethnic, and religious lines. People proudly contributed money—sometimes entire monthly salaries—to the project. Its completion is celebrated as a victory for ordinary citizens, engineers, and leaders alike. GERD is also a message to Africa and the world, showing that African nations can control their own resources and destiny.
Importantly, GERD has also fostered political unity and resilience. Through the years, Ethiopians stood together against outside pressures and doubts from international actors. The dam is now a beacon of hope, a unifying force, and a lasting reminder of the power of collective action. For Ethiopians, GERD stands as a proud declaration: “We can do it ourselves!”
The Role of Late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi
The visionaries behind the GERD start with the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. Meles Zenawi played a historic role in bringing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam to life. Under his leadership, the initial idea for the GERD was institutionalized and became a true national agenda. Meles announced the dam’s construction in 2011, boldly declaring Ethiopia’s intention to build and fund the project independently, without waiting for outside approval. He promoted the dam as a symbol of national pride and self-determination. According to sources, Meles claimed the GERD was essential for Ethiopia’s growth and energy security, and believed the dam would help create equitable sharing of Nile waters.
Meles Zenawi mobilized Ethiopians everywhere, urging contributions both financially and morally. He framed GERD as a legacy for future generations and as a tool to lift millions out of poverty. By prioritizing clean energy and infrastructure, he linked the dam to his wider goal of transforming Ethiopia into a middle-income, climate-resilient nation. Many Ethiopians remember Meles as the original visionary who laid the solid foundation for the GERD, making it more than just an engineering project, but a statement of identity for Ethiopia.
Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn and Leadership Continuity
Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn took the baton after Meles Zenawi’s passing and provided steady leadership during the crucial early years of GERD construction. Hailemariam inherited the GERD at a delicate stage, as the dam was facing technical, financial, and intense diplomatic challenges. He is credited with guiding work on the project through international scrutiny and regional tensions, especially in negotiations with Egypt and Sudan.
Hailemariam Desalegn also promoted the GERD as a model for sustainable and fair resource use in the Nile basin. He continued to rally national unity and encouraged Ethiopian citizens to keep supporting the project financially and emotionally. His leadership focused on maintaining momentum and stability, so the dam’s construction could move forward smoothly. By keeping up the vision set by Meles Zenawi, Hailemariam proved himself as a committed steward and a vital link in the uninterrupted progress of the GERD project.
The Contributions of Engineer Simegnew Bekele
Among the visionaries behind the GERD, Engineer Simegnew Bekele stands out as an iconic figure. Simegnew was the first Chief Project Manager of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Known for his deep passion and technical expertise, he dedicated years of his life to the realization of the GERD, working tirelessly from the very start of construction until his tragic and mysterious death in 2018. Simegnew was often called the “face of the dam” and is widely credited for inspiring workers, local communities, and the country.
Engineer Simegnew Bekele’s leadership on the ground went beyond engineering. He became a symbol of dedication, often living at the construction site for long periods and solving daily challenges with his team. Many Ethiopians see him as an embodiment of their aspirations, and his legacy lives on in the completed sections of the dam. His dedication is honored by the whole country as a reminder that great achievements require not only vision, but sacrifice and commitment until the end.
In summary, Meles Zenawi, Hailemariam Desalegn, and Simegnew Bekele each played unique and essential roles in making the GERD a reality—a project that now stands as a monument to the dreams and resilience of the Ethiopian people.
The Builders and Guardians: Honoring Their Sacrifice
Construction Workforce and Expertise
The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was powered by a dedicated workforce made up of local engineers, technicians, and laborers working alongside international partners. Local professionals brought their knowledge of the land and environment, playing key roles in the development of the dam. According to recent reports, over 25,000 workers have been directly involved at different phases of the GERD project. Many of these were Ethiopian engineers trained specifically for this ambitious project, along with technicians and skilled laborers who helped drive construction forward from start to finish.
Local Engineers, Technicians, and Labor Force
Local engineers and technicians were the heart of GERD, leading core technical operations and solving on-the-ground challenges. These hardworking Ethiopians often worked long hours and sometimes even stayed at the site for weeks or months. Laborers from across Ethiopia took part in building not only the dam’s concrete structure but also roads, housing, and support facilities. The project became a source of pride, with workers representing every region of the country and showing unity for a national goal.
International Partners and Engineering Firms
International partners also played a crucial role, providing technical expertise, machinery, and experience for this large-scale project. The main contractor, Webuild (formerly known as Salini Impregilo), an Italian company, managed key construction processes such as roller-compacted concrete techniques and installation of heavy hydropower equipment. Experts from different countries contributed guidance in design and planning, helping local teams to master new engineering skills and ensure that GERD would meet high global standards.
Personal Sacrifices: Stories from the Site
Extreme Working Conditions and Long Hours
Building GERD was never easy. Workers faced harsh weather conditions, dust, scorching heat, and the challenges of working in remote areas far away from families. Many stayed at the construction camps for long periods, sometimes only seeing their loved ones a few times per year. Continuous 24/7 shifts meant sacrificing weekends, holidays, and traditional celebrations. Despite all this, the sense of mission kept spirits high.
Lives Lost and Acts of Bravery
Sadly, GERD’s completion came with a heavy price. Some sources report that up to 15,000 people may have lost their lives during the entire construction period, though the number is debated and includes not just workers but also supporting community members and security personnel. There are many stories of bravery: workers who risked injury to protect colleagues in accidents, staff battling through emergencies, and engineers who pushed through exhaustion to keep vital machinery running. Each act of courage demonstrated deep commitment to the project and to national development.
Impact on Families and Communities
The sacrifices extended beyond the site. The families of workers bore the strain of long separations and anxieties about the risks their loved ones faced. Communities around GERD experienced both challenges and opportunities. Some saw their local economies benefit, while others had to adapt to new realities as landscapes changed. Yet, the collective effort strengthened bonds among families, friends, and neighbors. The GERD became more than a construction site—it became a symbol of Ethiopian endurance, unity, and national pride.
The true story of GERD is not only written in concrete and steel but also in the dedication and sacrifices of the people who built it.
The People’s Project: National Participation and Funding
Domestic Funding and Public Contributions
The GERD stands as one of the most impressive examples of a project funded by the people for the people. From the start, Ethiopia chose to support the dam with domestic resources and refused foreign loans or aid that would threaten its sovereignty. The vast majority of funds came from government bonds sold to ordinary citizens, public sector workers, and even small-scale farmers. According to government reports, over 1.7 billion birr was raised from public contributions during the 2024/25 Ethiopian fiscal year alone. In total, about 9% of the total construction cost—including billions of birr—came from these grassroots funding efforts, supplementing commercial bank financing. The sense of joint ownership grew as citizens saw their earnings, even modest amounts, directly funding their country’s future.
Diaspora Involvement
Diaspora Ethiopians played a huge role in making the GERD possible. From the United States and Europe to the Middle East and Africa, Ethiopians abroad became active fundraisers, advocates, and even buyers of GERD bonds. Campaigns by the Ethiopian Diaspora Service, embassies, and community associations made it easy for diaspora members to contribute online, purchase bonds, and join donation drives. Even small contributions from abroad had a big impact—recent reports say the diaspora contributed about $10 million from 2022 to 2025. Many also shared technical skills and promoted Ethiopia’s goals in the media. These efforts helped build national pride and prove that no matter how far they live, Ethiopians everywhere remain connected to their homeland.
Community Bonds and Donations
Community spirit was the heartbeat of GERD fundraising. Community bonds gave everyone—shopkeepers, university students, villagers, and business owners—a chance to invest in the dam. The bonds were often sold at rallies, music events, schools, and markets, making the campaign truly national. Donations were another huge pillar; people gave what they could, sometimes sacrificing their savings or donating a portion of their salaries. Civil servants in particular often had salary deductions dedicated to the GERD. Groups like the Ethiopian Community Association in the Emirates even purchased major bonds to show solidarity and inspire others. This massive response from all parts of Ethiopian society made the dam not just a national project but a symbol of unity and shared destiny.
Political Unity and National Mobilization
The GERD quickly became more than an infrastructure project—it became a movement. Political leaders from all parties, religious figures, celebrities, and local officials came together to encourage public participation. The Ethiopian government launched national mobilization campaigns to highlight the GERD as a source of hope, pride, and resilience. Grassroots events spread awareness and kept the public motivated, celebrating every construction milestone and fundraising goal. Even during periods of hardship or political differences, the dam symbolized a goal everyone could share. Many Ethiopian leaders described GERD as Ethiopia’s “second Adwa,” connecting the project to the country’s proud history of resisting colonialism. In the end, the GERD helped build a rare political unity, reminding the world and Ethiopians themselves that, when united, there is nothing the nation cannot achieve.
Electrification and National Development Goals
Electrification and national development goals have always been closely linked in Ethiopia. With the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the country has taken a major step toward meeting its ambitious targets. Ethiopia aims to provide almost universal access to electricity by 2025, up from just over 50% today. Before the dam, many people in rural communities lived without reliable power. The GERD offers the promise of new, clean hydropower for tens of millions of Ethiopians.
With GERD’s massive capacity, the country seeks to double its electricity production and become a regional power exporter. This change is not just about brighter lights—it’s about powering factories, schools, hospitals, and small businesses that are essential for development. Already, officials noted that in 2024, the dam was meeting around 16% of Ethiopia’s electricity needs.
Aims for Access to Electricity
Aims for access to electricity have been at the heart of the GERD project since its inception. The Ethiopian government and many international organizations agree that electrification is vital for economic growth. Access to power supports everything from home lighting to modern farming and commerce. Yet, even now, almost half of Ethiopia’s 135 million people do not have regular electricity at home. Urban areas have over 90% access, but rural regions lag far behind.
By enabling mass electrification, GERD will help close this gap. It brings real hope for rural electrification and more affordable energy for both households and entrepreneurs. The project helps set the stage for Ethiopia’s dream of quickly developing its economy and pulling millions out of poverty.
Transforming Rural Communities
Transforming rural communities is one of the most exciting impacts of GERD. In the past, lack of power has kept rural families reliant on wood for cooking, limited irrigation, and blocked access to modern communication. The new hydropower from the dam can enable clean water pumping, improved school facilities, clinics with powered equipment, and the ability for rural towns to attract small industries.
The rural transformation goes beyond simple electrification. It includes better education, improved health, and new economic opportunities. Power lets young people study at night, allows local businesses to grow, and helps connect villages to the rest of the country. GERD is, therefore, a foundation for building stronger, more vibrant rural communities across Ethiopia.
Local Infrastructure Initiatives
Local infrastructure initiatives have blossomed around GERD’s development. Building the dam has meant not just a single structure but a wave of construction and investment in the nearby region.
New Towns, Healthcare, and Education Facilities
New towns, healthcare, and education facilities have grown along with the GERD. Entire service towns have sprung up close to the dam site, built to support the workforce and their families. These towns are now home to schools, clinics, markets, and recreational facilities. The infrastructure built for GERD workers now serves as a permanent benefit for the community.
GERD has also led to the construction of modern roads, expanded access to clean water, and new hospitals. Schools built for workers’ children now serve local populations. Clinics meant to care for dam personnel have become healthcare centers for surrounding rural families. This approach means that the GERD’s benefits reach much further than just the national power grid.
Economic Opportunities and Jobs Created
Economic opportunities and jobs created by GERD have been significant. During the dam’s long construction, more than 10,000 direct jobs were provided, and millions of work hours logged. Small businesses sprang up to serve the workers, from food stalls to maintenance shops. Local farmers gained new markets for their produce.
Once electricity is widely available, even more jobs and opportunities will arise—factories, workshops, new services, and expanded agriculture. Teachers, technicians, and healthcare workers are needed in the towns around GERD. As electrification expands, mechanics, shopkeepers, and entrepreneurs can start and grow their businesses.
In summary, GERD’s socio-economic impact is transformative. It empowers rural communities, sparks new local economies, and builds infrastructure that can serve generations of Ethiopians. The project is lighting up homes, towns, and futures across the country.
GERD as a Symbol of Ethiopian Sovereignty and Unity
Embodiment of Self-reliance
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) stands as a strong embodiment of self-reliance for Ethiopia. From its conceptualization, GERD has been financed mainly by the Ethiopian people, rather than foreign donors or loans. This decision was not only economic but deeply symbolic. Ethiopians, both in the country and abroad, bought bonds and made donations to support the construction. The government encouraged every citizen to contribute, making it a truly national project powered by self-reliance.
Many Ethiopians see GERD as a message that the country can accomplish monumental achievements using its own resources and determination. The successful progress of GERD without heavy reliance on international loans inspires other African nations to believe in their own capabilities. For Ethiopia, building GERD with local effort is proof that unity and collective will can move even the mightiest obstacles.
National Resilience Amid External Pressures
National resilience has become even more apparent as Ethiopia faced external pressures over the GERD project. The country persisted despite economic challenges, technical hurdles, and assertive diplomatic opposition. Leaders and citizens alike stayed committed, viewing the dam as a symbol of the nation’s ability to withstand adversity.
The story of GERD is shaped by a spirit of resilience—seen in the determination to continue construction through difficult times and in the steadfastness against critics. News coverage and public discourse in Ethiopia often highlight GERD as a rallying point, reinforcing the sense of national unity in the face of external and internal challenges.
The GERD and Regional Diplomacy
GERD is at the heart of regional diplomacy in the Nile Basin. Negotiations with Egypt and Sudan over water use have tested Ethiopia’s diplomatic skill. Many Ethiopians view the dam as a peaceful statement of their right to develop, while also respecting the needs of neighboring countries. The government has participated in many rounds of African Union-mediated talks, seeking an agreement that respects the interests of all.
Despite tense moments, Ethiopia has insisted that GERD is not aimed at harming downstream nations. The project’s symbolism has elevated it to more than an energy project—it is now a key talking point in regional political discussions. GERD has become a platform for diplomacy, demonstrating Ethiopia’s desire to solve complex disputes through negotiations and dialogue, not conflict.
Preservation of National Interests
The GERD is seen as crucial to the preservation of Ethiopia’s national interests. Control over its own natural resources, especially the Blue Nile, is a matter of national pride. The ability to produce electricity and regulate water flow is vital for Ethiopia’s development goals. Protecting the benefits of GERD also means safeguarding economic growth, food security, and future opportunities for millions of citizens.
Leaders frequently emphasize that supporting the dam is equivalent to defending Ethiopia’s sovereignty. Many citizens believe GERD will secure Ethiopia’s long-term interests by providing reliable power, supporting local industries, and keeping the nation self-sufficient. This powerful sense of duty, promoted by both government campaigns and grassroots movements, makes GERD a true symbol of Ethiopian sovereignty and unity.
Legacy, Lessons, and the Path Forward
Multi-Generational Significance
Multi-generational significance describes the true impact of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on Ethiopia. GERD is not just for the current generation. It is a gift from today’s people to their children and grandchildren. The vision behind GERD was shaped with the future in mind. Its benefits will be enjoyed for decades, giving hope and pride to all Ethiopians.
Many Ethiopians see GERD as a bridge between the past and the future. The dam honors the dreams of ancestors. At the same time, it becomes a symbol for younger citizens to take charge of their country’s development. This sense of continuity builds unity. Elders pass down the story of determination, sacrifice, and national pride linked to GERD. Young people are encouraged to protect and further the achievements made so far.
Infrastructure for Future Generations
Infrastructure for future generations is one of the most important promises GERD holds. GERD provides clean and renewable energy. This power will reach homes, schools, and businesses in both cities and rural areas. As a result, children will be able to study at night, and health clinics will have electricity for life-saving equipment.
Beyond electricity, the presence of GERD inspires other development projects. Roads, bridges, and water systems are being built or improved. Local industries and economies benefit from reliable power. Jobs are created both directly and indirectly because of the dam. These changes pave the way for a stronger, more independent future for all Ethiopians.
Safeguarding the GERD Legacy
Calls for Vigilance and Unity
Calls for vigilance and unity often echo in GERD discussions. Leaders and citizens understand that GERD’s success must be protected. People are reminded to stay alert to challenges that may arise, whether from technical risks or from outside pressures. It is important to work as one nation and defend the progress already made.
Reminders for unity are common on national holidays and during times of tension. All Ethiopians, within the country and in the diaspora, are called to put aside differences and stand together. This shared protection is the best way to honor the sacrifices made by previous generations.
Ongoing Community Engagement and Responsibility
Ongoing community engagement and responsibility ensure that GERD continues to benefit everyone. Communities around the dam take part in its maintenance. Young people are encouraged to train in science and engineering, preparing for new roles in operating and protecting the dam.
Educational programs teach the value of GERD and the importance of water management. Neighbors look out for any signs of stress around the dam or in the rivers. Everyone has a job to keep this national treasure safe for the future. Community groups organize awareness events, and the media shares stories of local heroes who help in small but meaningful ways.
In summary, GERD’s legacy is built on the commitment of all Ethiopians to value and defend their achievement. This shared responsibility will keep the lights on for generations to come, truly making GERD a gift with everlasting value.
Relations with Egypt and Sudan
Relations with Egypt and Sudan are at the center of the ongoing discussion around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Egypt and Sudan, both downstream countries, have expressed deep concerns over water security as Ethiopia moves forward with the dam’s filling and operation. Egypt fears it could lose essential water flows from the Nile, which is its main water source. Sudan has more mixed feelings. On one hand, Sudan has worries similar to Egypt about water supply and dam safety. On the other hand, Sudan could benefit from regulated flows and reduced flooding risks from the GERD.
High-level negotiations among Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan have been ongoing for years, sometimes including international mediators like the African Union or the United States. However, talks are often tense and progress is slow. Both Egypt and Sudan have called for legally binding agreements on filling and operation, while Ethiopia insists on its right to develop and use Nile waters fairly.
In 2025, Egypt and Sudan renewed diplomatic pressure as Ethiopia’s official GERD inauguration approached. They emphasized tripartite negotiations, openly rejecting broader Nile Basin talks. Recent years saw the three countries failing to reach a final deal despite many rounds of discussions. This has sometimes raised regional tensions and concerns about stability and even possible conflict.
Geopolitical Challenges and Negotiations
Geopolitical challenges and negotiations surrounding the GERD are complex and ongoing. The dam affects hydropower production, water sharing, and national security across northeast Africa. Egypt, whose population depends almost entirely on the Nile for water, has described the dam as an existential threat. Sudan too ties its future development to the Nile’s resources.
Ethiopia seeks to highlight its need for electricity and economic growth. It has reached out to the African Union and other international organizations for support and mediation, but Egypt and Sudan often resist outside involvement, insisting the project must be governed by direct negotiations among the three countries.
Large powers like the United States, China, and the European Union have all shown interest, sometimes pressing for peaceful solutions. The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, and major powers sometimes compete for influence in the region. Local civil conflicts, such as the ongoing instability in Sudan, have made the situation even more complex. Security of the GERD itself has also been raised as an issue, especially with regional instability just across the border.
Historical Water Agreements and Controversy
Historical water agreements and controversy are at the heart of the GERD dispute. The main source of conflict is the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement between Egypt and Sudan, which divided most of the river’s water between these two countries, leaving out Ethiopia and other upstream states. Ethiopia has never recognized this agreement, arguing it was not party to the deal and that it unfairly blocks its rights to use the Blue Nile.
Egypt and Sudan’s arguments are based on these historic treaties, claiming they guarantee their water security. Ethiopia, however, considers the agreements outdated and inequitable. This disagreement has led to strong feelings and statements on all sides, with Egypt sometimes seeking help from the UN Security Council while Ethiopia stresses its national sovereignty and the principle of equitable use.
The controversy has grown as Ethiopia filled the GERD’s reservoir in stages, which Egypt called a “unilateral act.” Egypt has repeatedly complained to the international community and organizations such as the United Nations, but Ethiopia defends its actions as legitimate and essential for development. Global news and analysis (such as from Brookings, DW, and LSE) often focus on these deep-rooted legal and political disagreements.
International Recognition and Media
International recognition and media coverage of the GERD varies greatly around the world and in different regions. Major international media outlets and financial institutions frequently report on developments at the dam, especially at key moments like inaugurations and negotiation milestones.
Some international media, such as from China or the United States, have praised the project for its potential to boost African development. African and Asian news outlets often frame the GERD as a symbol of self-sufficiency and progress for Ethiopia and the region. Ethiopian media highlight the national pride and unity it inspires.
In contrast, some Western and Arab media outlets often emphasize the conflict, environmental risks, and diplomatic standoffs. Misinformation and mischaracterization have sometimes appeared, prompting Ethiopian organizations and citizens to launch campaigns in multiple languages to share their perspective and clarify facts.
Debate and framing in the press are matched by diplomatic statements from various governments and organizations. The GERD has become a highly visible symbol not just in Africa, but across the world, featuring in coverage from the BBC, CBS News, Al Jazeera, and many others. International opinion is far from united, showing how complex and multi-layered the dam’s influence has become 🌍.
Perspectives from Engineers and Workers
Perspectives from engineers and workers who built the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) show a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Many engineers describe GERD as more than an ordinary construction project. It was an opportunity for local experts to gain new skills and train thousands of other professionals. One project manager told AllAfrica how overcoming challenges was only possible because everyone felt like they were building something historic for Ethiopia, not just working for a paycheck. Engineers and workers faced extreme conditions but saw each new stage as a victory for the whole nation.
Reports from DW and Webuild highlight personal sacrifices made by the workforce. Many worked long days, often under the hot sun or during late-night shifts. There have even been stories of engineers and workers who lost their lives while working on the GERD, which has made their colleagues even more determined to see the project finished. For the majority, building the dam became a way to prove the capability and ingenuity of Ethiopians themselves. Young professionals now consider the GERD the beginning of a new era for talented local engineers and skilled workers.
Voices from Local Communities
Voices from local communities around the GERD site are filled with hope, pride, and shared sacrifice. For residents, GERD is not just a huge building on the Nile, but a symbol of collective effort and national unity. According to The Reporter Ethiopia, local people believe the dam offers new opportunities that were unimaginable before. These include better access to electricity, jobs, and new infrastructure in nearby towns. For many, GERD is a “beacon of hope” for the whole country.
Interviews and social media messages show how ordinary people feel personally connected to GERD. Some were relocated to allow construction but express satisfaction at helping create something for their children’s future. Community members share stories of donating money, food, and even land. Influencers and elders often state that GERD stands as a victory “forged by the sweat, blood, and financial sacrifices of ordinary Ethiopians.” Nearby communities see the project as reflecting the voice of generations and are proud that GERD is, as one Facebook post says, “a project of the people, by the people, and for the people of Ethiopia.”
Reflections from Diaspora Ethiopians
Reflections from diaspora Ethiopians echo the pride and unity found within Ethiopia. Many diaspora organizations, as noted by Zehabesha, highlight how the GERD brought together Ethiopians abroad regardless of their background or beliefs. These communities played a huge role, raising funds and advocating for GERD’s completion in international forums. Diaspora Ethiopians feel GERD showcases the strength and resilience of their motherland. They share stories about rallying behind the GERD project as a way to give back to the nation and maintain a connection for the next generation.
Some diaspora members see GERD as proof that Ethiopia can accomplish great things independently. The Facebook group GazettePlusEnglish noted how the project “reflects the very essence of Ethiopia” and has become a focal point for unity. During national celebrations, the diaspora expresses gratitude for the dam’s inauguration, seeing it as a new chapter for Ethiopia and a source of inspiration for self-reliance and pan-African solidarity. Their reflections show that GERD has helped unite the global Ethiopian community around a shared purpose and national pride.