AFREC DG says completion of GERD crucial to enhance regional integration

Addis Ababa, March 8, 2021 (FBC) – Director General of African Energy Commission (AFREC), Rashid Ali Abdallah said that completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has a significance importance to enhance regional economic integration in Africa.

The Director General of African Energy Commission has discussed with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia to Algeria, Nebiat Getachew on the ongoing GERD negotiation and related issues.

On the occasion, Ambassador Nebiat explained to the DG that Ethiopia is following fair and amicable approach towards GERD and the dam will not cause significant harm on downstream countries. He further assured the Director General that GERD would ensure social and economic significance to neighboring African countries when it completes.

He also said GERD will contribute to successfulness of Agenda 2063 African Agenda through connecting the region via power infrastructure.

AFREC Director General Rashid Ali Abdallah, to his part, assured the Ethiopian ambassador that he clearly understands the importance of GERD in creating regional economic integration through power supply and addressing energy demand in the continent.

The dam will be renewable energy hub of Africa, he said, adding that it will further accelerate development activities in the continent.