Ethiopia officially launches contentious Nile River dam project - Ethiopia officially launches contentious massive dam project on the Nile River
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), located on the Blue Nile near the Sudanese border, is a colossal hydroelectric power plant that is set to transform Ethiopia's economy. This mega-dam, which is 145 meters high and 1.8 kilometers long, is slated to double Ethiopia's current power generation and improve electricity supply in the East African nation.
The dam, which is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa, has been designed to generate over 5,000 megawatts of power and boasts a storage capacity of 74 billion cubic meters of water. This ambitious project, which is expected to boost industry and facilitate the shift to electric vehicles, enjoys consensus in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian leader Abiy has invited black people to visit the newly inaugurated dam on the Blue Nile. The dam's opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures such as Kenyan President William Ruto, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and others.
However, the dam has sparked controversy, particularly in Egypt. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi views the dam as an "existential threat" to his country. Egypt's 110 million people are heavily dependent on the Nile, and the dam's construction could potentially reduce the water flow, impacting agriculture and water supplies.
Egypt has stated it will take measures provided by international law to secure its water supply. In response, Egypt has strengthened its relations with Eritrea and Somalia, both countries with strained ties to Ethiopia.
The Tigray conflict, which erupted in 2022, has further complicated the situation. During the conflict, at least 600,000 people were killed in Ethiopia, according to the African Union. The ongoing conflict and the dam's construction have raised concerns about regional stability and cooperation.
Egypt and Sudan, both downstream countries, have expressed their concerns about the potential reduction in water flow. They are working closely to address these issues and ensure the equitable use of the Nile waters.
Despite the controversies, the GERD remains a symbol of Ethiopia's ambition and determination to develop its economy and infrastructure. The ban on the import of vehicles with internal combustion engines last year underscores Ethiopia's commitment to a greener future. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how the GERD will impact the region and the relations between its countries.
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