GERD enters final phase

Addis Ababa, January  4, 2024 (FBC) – The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has entered its final phase through the united efforts and perseverance of Ethiopians, according to the Executive Committee of the Dam Coordinating National Council.

Ethiopia will continue its efforts towards ensuring regional integration and mutual development, the committee added.

The general public has contributed over 18 billion 734 million Birr for the construction of the dam up to November 2023.

The Executive Committee of the National Council of GERD has reviewed last year’s performance and the plan for the ongoing Ethiopian budget year alongside the evaluation of the performance of the past five months at its regular meeting held in Addis Ababa today.

Issues related to public participation, basin development, public diplomacy, and finance were discussed.

During the occasion, Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Dam Coordinating National Council Demeke Mekonnen said that Ethiopians have moved the dam to its final phase by allocating their money, knowledge and expertise in the past 12 years.

Stating that the construction of the dam has currently reached 94.6 percent, he said the Ethiopian people have also demonstrated the everything is possible spirit to the whole world by providing the support tirelessly and carrying out basin conservation activities.

The GERD is a manifestation of the togetherness and devotion for their nation, Demeke said, adding that direction has been given by the executive committee to enable the public continue their unwavering support.

He recalled that four rounds of tripartite talks had taken place in the past months, although agreement was not reached on outstanding issues.

The chair revealed that the negotiation was discontinued due to Egypt’s position that the tripartite negotiation is not necessary.

Reiterating Ethiopia’s firm stand to conduct the negotiation based on principles and to reach an agreement, Demeke said the country will consolidate its efforts for regional integration and mutual development, ENA reported.