Addis Ababa: The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) will greatly contribute to the overall mutual benefit of the region, International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Regional Representative Abdulkarim Seid noted.
IWMI is a non-profit, scientific research organization focusing on the sustainable use of water and land resources in developing countries.
Talking to ENA, the regional representative stated that the GERD will play a leading role in strengthening cooperation and integration in East Africa.
Using natural resources for common development is crucial for East Africa, which is plagued by various man-made and natural problems, he added.
According to Abdulkarim, who is also senior water resources specialist, the joint use of natural resources is crucial for economic development of the continent and the region.
In this regard, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam will not only ensure the mutual benefit of the countries but also contribute to peace and stability of the region.
The IWMI representat
ive pointed out that Ethiopia is building the dam based on the principle of mutual benefit of water resources, which is one of the natural resources that binds the region together.
Abdulkarim explained that a lot of developments are happening in every country, especially in African countries, because population has been increasing at a very rapid rate together with urbanization and increasing climate change.
“So, this means increase in water, energy and food demand; and we need to address those. The Ethiopian government has ambitious infrastructure development activities over the last decade. The GERD is one example but not only GERD. We have several other projects being implemented to address all those challenges.”
The expert believes that the way Ethiopia has gone to build the dam to meet the growing demands for energy, accelerate economic growth, and deal with climate change, is correct.
He also noted that the efforts to resolve the disputes arising in the riparian countries during the process of build
ing the dam have been encouraging.
Abdulkarim expressed his belief that the disputes surrounding the dam will be resolved through negotiation.
The representative also advises the importance of having common information and understanding in order to avoid conflicts and use water resources equitably.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is near completion, will have an installed capacity of generating 5,150 MW upon going fully operational, making it the largest hydropower project in Africa that benefits countries in the region and beyond
Source: Ethiopian News Agency