GERD excellent example of utilizing own resources, regional integration: Fiscus Int’l Consultancy & Research Organization

Addis Ababa, March 29, 2025 (FMC) — The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is an excellent example of utilizing one’s own resources and an enormous opportunity to realize regional integration, Fiscus International Consultancy and Research Organization Director Andrew Lawson said.

The director noted that there is no doubt at all that the Grand Renaissance Dam will provide energy for Ethiopia and will give the country the opportunity to export energy to neighboring countries.

And connecting the region is significant for maintaining good relations with neighboring countries, which is going to be advantageous for the whole region, he told local news agency ENA.

According to him, this provides an enormous opportunity for the region as it opens the door for farmers and business people, among others, to cross borders and sell their products.

“I think over time, we can see the region benefiting from the investments undertaken in energy here, which is an important example.”

Lawson believes that the dam is an important example for Africa since it demonstrates that this can be done with own resources, and with the level of technical skill needed even for complicated engineering projects.

The dam is a testament that it is not always necessary to go to other countries or international actors for financial and technical support, the director elaborated.

“I think it’s an excellent example” for other countries to develop their resources by their own expertise, he further added.

Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is the pride of Africa wherein the country shows the spirit of perseverance and capability.

He expressed his firm hope that this generation will continue replicating such historic projects in the years to come.

The GERD is seen as a symbol of Ethiopia’s renaissance and a dam that also plays a crucial role in strengthening regional integration.

The historic Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is expected to be inaugurated early next New Ethiopian Year.