Ethiopia Inaugurates Africa’s Largest Dam Amid Regional Interest in Power Imports

Ethiopia Inaugurates Africa’s Largest Dam Amid Regional Interest in Power Imports

Ethiopia has officially inaugurated Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam, a $5 billion project set to more than double the nation’s electricity supply. The Grand Renaissance Dam, built on a tributary of the Nile near the Sudanese border, is expected to generate over 5,000 megawatts, powering homes, businesses, and the country’s expanding fleet of electric vehicles.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the launch as a “major achievement,” highlighting the project as a symbol of African capability. Leaders from across the continent attended the inauguration, with South Sudan and Kenya immediately announcing plans to import electricity from Ethiopia.

However, the dam has sparked regional tensions. Egypt, which relies heavily on the Nile for its water supply, has criticised the project, calling it an “existential threat” and accusing Ethiopia of bypassing international agreements by proceeding without complete consensus.

Abiy sought to ease concerns, pledging that Ethiopia intends to share the benefits of the dam rather than cause harm. For many Ethiopians, the launch is a source of national pride. “We will finally have enough power to charge our electric vehicles, said Addis Ababa bus driver Belay Tigabu.

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