By Eddah Waithaka
Ethiopia has completed the monumental Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) after 14 years of construction, with officials heralding the infrastructure project as a “generational victory” for the nation and the continent.
The government celebrated the dam as a testament to the country’s unity and collective effort. Officials stated that the construction was “successfully accomplished through a collective effort,” highlighting the significant contributions from both the public and the government.
Observers acknowledged the numerous challenges that marked the project’s journey but emphasized the nation’s resilience.
They noted that by bringing the dam to fruition, Ethiopians have quietly re-enacted the spirit of the historic Victory of Adwa.In official statements, the government framed the GERD as far more than critical infrastructure.
“It is a successful project where Ethiopians turned their frustration into action, demonstrating that nothing is impossible when people rise in unity,” a statement read.
Observers added that the dam’s completion proves “a nation that once stooped its head could rise on its own,” signaling a powerful shift in the narrative about Ethiopia and Africa.
Officials described the milestone as heralding “a new dawn and a new era for the continent,” showcasing a generation’s capacity to achieve the impossible.
They, along with observers, now call the structure “a monument of Africa’s renaissance and resurgence, built with its own capacity.”
To mark the historic occasion, the Ethiopian Embassy in Kenya held an inauguration celebration on September 6, coinciding with the eve of the Ethiopian New Year.
The event honored members of the Ethiopian diaspora in Kenya, who purchased bonds totaling more than $700,000 to support the project over the past 14 years.
The embassy awarded certificates to recognize both Ethiopian citizens and friends of Ethiopia who contributed through the bond purchases.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Head of Mission Ambassador Demeke Atnafu said, “We are here to celebrate the completion of the GERD and to recognize the dedication of our diaspora and friends of Ethiopia who made this achievement possible.”
