Intellectuals attribute GERD filling to Like-mindedness amid government, public

Addis Ababa, July 23, 2020 (FBC) – Intellectuals from various higher institutions have attributed the successful first phase of filling of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) to proper like-mindedness amid government and public in the country.

President of Addis Ababa University, Professor Tassew Woldehana told FBC that the manufacturing sector is energy intensive activity that demands ample generation of power from Ethiopia’s natural resources calling GERD’s success as a landmark move.

The success is a result of like-mindedness between the government and Ethiopians regarding national interests, Professor Tassew stressed.

“GERD is landmark project for Ethiopia to realize structural economic transformation and combat poverty so that it could change livelihoods of its citizens.” Professor Tassew underlined, adding “The hydroelectric dam is Ethiopia’s key development tool inextricably linked with its future destiny in many aspects.”

Professor Brook Hailu Beshah, a Political science researcher and instructor at North Carolina University of the US has expressed his delight over the successful completion of first phase filling of GERD calling the achievement a gift of generation.

“The national triumph over GERD has created a remarkable sense of pride especially for Ethiopians living abroad because it glorifies nation’s dignity at the global level,” Professor Brook noted saying  “ It manifests victorious steps taken by the government in harmony with interests of its citizens.”

Filling of GERD without affecting downstream countries apparently reflects Ethiopia’s firm stand on fair and reasonable utilization of River Nile for mutual benefits among nations of the region, he explained.

Current development of the dam wipes out inappropriate skepticism and mistrust which have been prevailing among Egyptians for centuries regarding Ethiopia’s rights over River Nile, the professor underscored.

Professor Brook said the existing achievements on GERD inspires the nation to further mega development activities in all sectors calling all Ethiopians living both in homeland and abroad to safeguard interests of their nation and continue diplomatic efforts in any circumstances.