Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam: Controversial Power Boost

Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)

Ethiopia has also commissioned the largest hydroelectric project based in Africa, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) to increase power production in the nation. The action has sparked off immense resistance by Egypt who uses the river Nile to meet 97 percent of its water demands and considers the dam a great menace to its water security. Egypt has taken it to the United Nations Security Council terming it as an infringement of international law.

Key Points: Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)

National Significance: The dam is a symbol of pride and unity for Ethiopia, especially during times of internal conflict.

Egypt’s Opposition:

• Egypt regards the dam as an existential threat, and has complained at the UN Security Council, claiming that Ethiopia had done so unilaterally without a legitimate deal.

Sudan’s Position:

• Sudan has expressed concerns about the dam’s impact on water flow but has maintained a relatively neutral stance.

Regional Tensions:
The issue has the potential to escalate into a regional conflict if not addressed through diplomatic negotiations.

About the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD):

Location: Built on the Blue Nile River, near the Ethiopia–Sudan border.

Height: 170 meters

Other Major Dams on African Rivers:

• Aswan High Dam (Egypt): Built on the Nile River, crucial for irrigation, flood control, and power generation.
• Kariba Dam (Zambia–Zimbabwe): Built on the Zambezi River, known for creating one of the world’s largest man-made lakes.
• Cahora Bassa Dam (Mozambique): Also on the Zambezi River, a vital source of electricity for Mozambique and surrounding countries.
• Inga Dams (Democratic Republic of Congo): Located on the Congo River and central to Africa’s long-term hydropower development plans.