By Abdirezak Sahane Elmi, Former Government Official
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is more than just a power project , it is a national dream that has finally become a reality. Today, as we celebrate its completion, I feel both pride and deep personal connection, for I was among those who contributed to its early journey when many doubted its success.
The construction of the GERD officially began on April 2, 2011, inaugurated by the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. At that time, I was working as a government project staff under the Pastoral Community Development Project (PCDP) in the Somali Region. When the government announced that all staff would contribute one month of their salary annually to support the dam, many of us questioned the decision. As World Bank–funded project employees, our status was different, but after discussions we agreed — and I proudly paid my share.
Later, when I joined the Somali Region Health Bureau, I continued contributing my salary like all other government staff. Beyond paying, I became part of a regional committee encouraging others to support the project, believing that this dam would one day transform our country.
In 2013, I was nominated by the ruling party (then ESPDP) as Mayor of Kebridahar City. Though I served for only eight months, one of my proudest achievements was mobilizing funds for the GERD alongside my responsibilities to my people. Shortly afterward, I was appointed Mayor of Jigjiga, the capital of the Somali Region, where my role in GERD fundraising grew even greater.
During this period, I was honored to serve as a member of the regional executive committee tasked with mobilizing resources for the dam. We launched community-wide campaigns — farmers, traders, pastoralists, and ordinary citizens — all joining hands. I hosted the GERD Cup, an unforgettable event where Somali Region’s people sold their camels, goats, and sheep to contribute. Together, we collected over 100 million birr in a single year. That achievement was not mine alone; it was the collective gratitude and sacrifice of the Somali people, who treated this dam as their own.
The hope of our people was simple: that one day they would benefit from the electricity and economic opportunities generated by this dam. Today, that hope is finally turning into reality.
Of course, the journey was not without challenges. There were moments when technical mistakes, contract mismanagement, and internal party debates threatened the project. Many doubted its completion. But with the reforms introduced under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, critical corrections were made, including ending the failed METEC contract, which ultimately saved the project and put it back on track.
I also took part in defending Ethiopia’s natural rights on the international stage. When Egypt and other foreign actors waged campaigns to undermine the GERD, I wrote and published strong opinion pieces in AddisStandard, Borkena, allAfrica.com and other platforms, as well as on social media. I reminded the world that Ethiopia has the right to develop its water, land, and natural resources , and no one can deny that. I also pushed back against false claims, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s baseless statement that America funded the GERD.
Today, as the GERD is completed, I sincerely congratulate all Ethiopians, the federal government, and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for their commitment and determination to finish this historic project.
But I also raise a heartfelt reminder: the pastoralist communities who sold their livestock and made great sacrifices for this dam are still waiting for the benefits of electricity and development. It is essential that the government ensures rural and nomadic areas, including the Somali Region, directly benefit from the GERD’s power.
Finally, I call upon the federal government to consider launching another major hydropower project in the Somali Region , the Shabelle River Hamaro Project. The feasibility studies are nearly complete, and this site has the potential to generate significant energy, possibly on par with Gilgel Gibe. Such a project would not only power the eastern regions but could also create opportunities for energy exports to neighboring countries.
The GERD is a story of resilience, unity, and sacrifice. I am proud of my small role in it, and I am even prouder of the Somali Region people whose contributions stand as a testament to their patriotism and vision.
Congratulations to all Ethiopians — this is our victory.
By Abdirezak Sahane Elmi, Former Government Official
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