Addis Ababa, September 24, 2025 (FMC) — President Taye Atske-Selassie on Monday highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a landmark achievement and a symbol of the global pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7).

Speaking during a meeting with Annalena Baerbock, President of the United Nations General Assembly, on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York, President Taye said initiatives like GERD not only advance Ethiopia’s energy sector but also create opportunities for regional integration and international cooperation.

According to the United Nations, SDG 7, or Sustainable Development Goal 7, is one of the UN’s 17 goals, aiming to “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all” by 2030. It focuses on expanding clean energy use, improving energy efficiency, and providing universal access to electricity, particularly in developing countries.

Addis Ababa, September 23, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Coast Guard has officially begun operations at Lake Nigat, the reservoir formed by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Federal Police Chief Commissioner General Demelash Gebre-Michael confirmed.

Commissioner General Demelash said the deployment underscores the federal police’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s water bodies through proactive and modern law enforcement. He highlighted that the Coast Guard’s mandate includes preventing crimes in advance and responding swiftly to any security threats.

The unit at Lake Nigat is equipped with advanced motorboats featuring surveillance cameras, integrated radar systems, and modern communication technology, enabling rapid intervention and effective monitoring of any illegal activities on the water.

Addis Ababa, September 23, 2025 (FMC) – The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is not only a source of electricity but also a demonstration that what once seemed impossible can be achieved, Sidama Regional State Chief Administrator Desta Ledamo said during a public rally in Hawassa.

Addressing thousands of residents gathered to celebrate the completion of the dam, Chief Administrator Desta noted that all Ethiopians contributed to the project in various ways, and its completion reflects the country’s unity and collective determination.

He urged citizens to carry the same spirit of enthusiasm and cooperation into other sectors of development, emphasizing that national progress can be achieved when people work together.

Addis Ababa, September 23, 2025 (FMC) – Thousands of residents in Sidama Region have taken to the streets of Hawassa to celebrate the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), joining a wave of nationwide festivities following the project’s inauguration.

The regional rally, held under the theme “We Did It in Unity,” attracted participants from multiple zones across Sidama as well as officials from the Hawassa city administration. Attendees expressed pride and gratitude, praising the government’s efforts to advance Ethiopia’s development and prosperity.

The GERD, Africa’s largest hydroelectric project, was officially inaugurated on September 9, 2025, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in the Benishangul-Gumuz Region. Designed to generate 5,150 megawatts of electricity, the dam is expected to double Ethiopia’s energy capacity and position the country as a regional energy exporter.

Addis Ababa, September 22, 2025 (FMC) – Leaders from Harari and Dire Dawa have hailed the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a symbol of Ethiopia’s revival, national unity, and collective achievement, highlighting its broader significance for the African continent.

Mass rallies were held in Dire Dawa and Harar this morning to celebrate the inauguration of the “People’s Project” and to showcase support to the government’s development efforts. The mass rallies drew thousands of residents from all walks of life.

During a mass rally in Harari Regional State under the theme “We Did It in Unity”, Deputy Chief Administrator Ms. Roza Oumer described GERD as “a bright story of victory for the Black people after Adwa,” realized through the collective effort, sweat, and sacrifice of Ethiopians. She emphasized that the dam, which overcame numerous complex challenges, embodies Ethiopia’s renewal and spiritual resilience.

Addis Ababa, September 22, 2025 (FMC) – Mass rallies held in Harari Region and Dire Dawa City Administration today to celebrate the successful completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely regarded as a symbol of Ethiopia’s unity, resilience, and determination.

The nationwide celebrations have been ongoing since September 9, when the GERD was officially inaugurated near its site in the Benishangul-Gumuz Region. The inauguration was presided over by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and attended by senior Ethiopian officials, representatives of the African Union, and foreign dignitaries including Kenyan President William Ruto, Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Addis Ababa, September 21, 2025 (FMC) – “We will continue to demonstrate the capacity and capability shown in the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in other development sectors,” said Mr. Awel Arba, Chief Administrator of the Afar Regional State.

Following the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, mass public rallies celebrating the triumph of the people-funded project have been held across Ethiopia. Today, residents of the Afar Region gathered in various woredas, with the main event taking place in Semera City.

Speaking at the rally, Mr. Awel Arba described the dam as Ethiopia’s “second Adwa victory,” a symbol of national achievement demonstrating that the country can complete what it sets out to do.

He emphasized that the project bears the imprint of all Ethiopians and has become a source of hope not only for Ethiopia but also for Africa, reflecting a

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Addis Ababa, September 21, 2025 (FMC) – The Afar Region today formally marked its celebration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a landmark project entirely funded by Ethiopian citizens and hailed as a symbol of national unity and prosperity.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the GERD on September 9 in the presence of African and Caribbean leaders, underscoring its continental and global significance.

Unlike many large-scale projects in Africa that rely on external loans, the GERD stands out as a self-funded achievement of the Ethiopian people.

Today’s rally in Semera follows a fortnight of nationwide festivities, with each region dedicating a day to commemorate the completion of the dam.

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) will open to public visits starting Monday, September 22, 2025, Tourism Minister Ms. Selamawit Kassa announced.

Speaking during a visit to tourist attractions in the Central Ethiopian Region, Minister Selamawit said that groups of up to 50 visitors will be allowed at a time to tour the dam.

Registration for the visits will be handled through Ethiopian Airlines, she disclosed.

The announcement follows Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s earlier statement that the GERD, a symbol of Ethiopia’s development and engineering achievement, will welcome visitors. . . . .

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.

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has said that Southwest Ethiopia People’s Region, blessed with abundant natural resources and rich in spices, will gain significant development momentum from the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

In a message shared on his social media channels regarding today’s mass celebrations across the region marking the dam’s completion, Temesgen described the GERD as “a remarkable development achievement that has made the people the main participants and beneficiaries.”

He noted that the celebrations renew the spirit of determination and highlight the collective effort required to achieve Ethiopia’s prosperity goals. Temesgen expressed confidence that the people of Southwest Ethiopia will continue to achieve major development milestones by harnessing the region’s natural potentia . . .

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh has said that the Somali Region’s vast potential presents a unique opportunity to leave a lasting mark for both the nation and future generations.

The remarks came in a message sent pn his social media page in connection with a public rally held this morning in Jigjiga City to celebrate the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The mass celebrations, characterized by widespread support and joy, highlighted the region’s enthusiasm for national development.

Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen described the public demonstrations as a source of strength, underscoring the importance of hard work, continued development, and collective efforts to ensure prosperity.

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – The Chief Administrator of the Southwest Ethiopia People’s Regional State, Negash Wagesho, has described the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a historic symbol where the heroism and victories of the Ethiopian people are inscribed in “bright colors.”

A region-wide mass rally was held this morning, including in Bonga City, under the theme “We Are Strong Together” to celebrate the completion and inauguration of the GERD.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Administrator Negash emphasized that despite decades of colonial-era restrictions aimed at preventing Ethiopia from utilizing its natural resources, the country had broken through those barriers and built the Renaissance Dam — a project he called “the seal of our unity,” realized through “sweat and sacrifice.”

“When Ethiopians stand together, nothing can stop us from advancing our development,” he said, stressing that the dam was achieved because the nation produced leaders and a people who do not compromise on Ethiopia’s interests

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) represents an intergenerational victory and a path to national prosperity, Somali Regional State Chief Administrator Mustafe M. Omer has said.

He made the remark during a mass rally held this morning in Jigjiga City to celebrate the dam’s completion and inauguration.

In his address, Mustafe hailed the GERD as a transformative project that not only generates power but also enhances Ethiopia’s regional standing and strengthens national unity. He described the dam as “a monument of victory where generations have left their mark, a symbol of our unity and progress, and a beacon of hope for the new generation.”

Underscoring its significance, the chief administrator noted that the dam embodies the collective resilience of the Ethiopian people, who overcame internal and external challenges under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD). He said the project represents an enduring development legacy that demonstrates . . .  .

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – The inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) continues to spark nationwide jubilation, with large-scale celebrations held this morning across the Southwest Ethiopia People’s and Somali regional states.

Gathered under the theme “We Did It in Unity,” citizens from diverse backgrounds voiced their solidarity with the government’s efforts to secure Ethiopia’s prosperity through the successful completion of the dam.

Crowds chanted slogans proclaiming the GERD as “the symbol of our prosperity,” “a mark of our potential,” and “a foundation of our unity.” Demonstrators also described the project as “a victory repeated,” “tangible good news for all Ethiopians,” and a proud testament to self-reliance and African identity.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FMC) – The completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reshaped the distorted narrative surrounding the Nile River and reinforced Ethiopia’s diplomatic standing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ambassador Nebiat Getachew said in a press briefing today.

Ambassador Nebiat stated that the inauguration of GERD attracted global media attention and demonstrated Ethiopia’s ability to turn vision into action. He described the dam as both a national victory and a diplomatic success that has inspired renewed confidence across Africa.

He added that GERD has shifted unjust perceptions about the Nile while creating fresh momentum for African resurgence. . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FMC) – Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh has praised the people of South Ethiopia and Afar Regions for their commitment to development, drawing inspiration from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and highlighting ongoing celebrations across the country.

In a message shared on social media, Temesgen described South Ethiopia as “distinguished by its diversity and a pioneer of development,” noting that its residents have shown the capacity to replicate the success of the GERD in other projects.

He emphasized that the people of South Ethiopia, “who know development through cooperation and consultation like the back of their hands,” absorbed the messages of support for the dam with determination to pursue further achievements without resting on past successes.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FMC) – The chief administrator of South Ethiopia Regional State, Mr. Tilahun Kebede, called on citizens to see themselves not just as storytellers, but as history makers during his remarks at a mass rallies held this morning across the region in celebration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

The public rally, held in Sodo town of Wolaita zone, brought together residents to express their support and joy over the inauguration of Africa’s largest hydroelectric project – the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

Speaking to the crowd, Mr. Tilahun Kebede stressed the need to build on the unity demonstrated during the construction of the GERD, making both the region and the country a symbol of prosperity and tolerance.

He highlighted that the success of the Renaissance Dam, achieved through collective effort, is proof that Ethiopians can succeed through unity and togetherness, and serves as an inspiration for future development projects.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone in its long-standing Nile water negotiations with Egypt and Sudan following the completion and inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), according to an analysis by Middle East and Africa analyst Elfadil Ibrahim in The Arab Weekly on September 17.

The GERD, located on the Abbay River in Ethiopia’s Benishangul-Gumuz region—a river that contributes over 86% of the Nile’s waters—is Africa’s largest hydroelectric project, with a generation capacity of 5,150 megawatts.

The project significantly boosts Ethiopia’s domestic energy generation and strengthens its position in regional water resource discussions.

Ibrahim noted that while Egypt has expressed concerns about potential impacts on its water supply and Sudan has raised questions regarding downstream flow . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (FMC) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has praised Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a transformative project for the Horn of Africa, highlighting its role in regional development and energy integration.

In a recent interview with Saudi media Al Arabiya, he said the dam, under construction for over a decade, is primarily designed to generate electricity and will strengthen growth in Ethiopia and neighboring countries. “Electricity is essential for any development process. From this perspective, the GERD is a success,” he said.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud noted that Ethiopia already exports power to Kenya, Sudan, and Djibouti, and described the project as both a national achievement and a shared opportunity for the region.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (FMC) – Tens of thousands of residents across Oromia Region have poured into the streets today to celebrate the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the country’s flagship development project.

The dam, first launched in 2011, was officially inaugurated on September 9, 2025, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in a ceremony attended by several African leaders, the Prime Minister of Barbados, and other international dignitaries. The event marked what officials have described as a new chapter not only for Ethiopia but also for Africa’s development journey.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Residents across every corner of the Amhara region have continued celebrating the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a historic milestone widely seen as a symbol of national unity, resilience, and self-reliance. Since its inauguration on 9 September 2025, public rallies have been held nationwide, reflecting widespread pride and enthusiasm over the country’s achievement.

The inauguration, attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, marked the completion of Africa’s largest hydroelectric power project. Entirely financed by Ethiopians through public contributions and government support, GERD demonstrates the nation’s capacity to undertake and complete transformative mega projects using domestic resources.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Public rallies were staged across the Amhara region today as residents celebrated the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely hailed as a historic symbol of Ethiopia’s unity and self-reliance.

The GERD, inaugurated on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is entirely financed by Ethiopians through collective public contributions and government support—marking an unprecedented national achievement.

Speaking at the rally held in Bahir Dar city, Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebed emphasized that the completion of GERD through domestic resources demonstrates Ethiopia’s capability to undertake transformative mega projects through national solidarity. “The successful realization of GERD with . . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Public rallies were staged across the Amhara region today as residents celebrated the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely hailed as a historic symbol of Ethiopia’s unity and self-reliance.

The GERD, inaugurated on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is entirely financed by Ethiopians through collective public contributions and government support—marking an unprecedented national achievement.

Speaking at the rally held in Bahir Dar city, Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebed emphasized that the completion of GERD through domestic resources demonstrates Ethiopia’s capability to undertake transformative mega projects through national solidarity. “The successful realization of GERD with . . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Public rallies were staged across the Amhara region today as residents celebrated the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely hailed as a historic symbol of Ethiopia’s unity and self-reliance.

The GERD, inaugurated on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is entirely financed by Ethiopians through collective public contributions and government support—marking an unprecedented national achievement.

Speaking at the rally held in Bahir Dar city, Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebed emphasized that the completion of GERD through domestic resources demonstrates Ethiopia’s capability to undertake transformative mega projects through national solidarity. “The successful realization of GERD with . . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Public rallies were staged across the Amhara region today as residents celebrated the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely hailed as a historic symbol of Ethiopia’s unity and self-reliance.

The GERD, inaugurated on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is entirely financed by Ethiopians through collective public contributions and government support—marking an unprecedented national achievement.

Speaking at the rally held in Bahir Dar city, Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebed emphasized that the completion of GERD through domestic resources demonstrates Ethiopia’s capability to undertake transformative mega projects through national solidarity. “The successful realization of GERD with . . . . .

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Public rallies were staged across the Amhara region today as residents celebrated the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a project widely hailed as a historic symbol of Ethiopia’s unity and self-reliance.

The GERD, inaugurated on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and several African leaders, is entirely financed by Ethiopians through collective public contributions and government support—marking an unprecedented national achievement.

Speaking at the rally held in Bahir Dar city, Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebed emphasized that the completion of GERD through domestic resources demonstrates Ethiopia’s capability to undertake transformative mega projects through national solidarity. “The successful realization of GERD with . . . . .