Ethiopia launches SMS fundraising program for GERD

Addis Ababa, March 4, 20202 (FBC) –President Sahle-Work Zewde said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a model for our unity.

The dam is more than a development project, she said at the launch of the 3rd round SMS fundraising program to raise fund for GERD.

She added the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam “is our weapon to beat poverty and hope for future development.”

The President called on all Ethiopians to repeat the victory of Adwa in completing the construction of the dam ahead of the schedule.

The SMS program launched today in an event held  at the National Palace allows people to raise fund for the construction of the dam by sending text message “A” to service number 8100.

The dam, which will be the largest hydropower project in Africa once completed, is now more than 71% complete.

Filling of the dam will start in July. GERD is scheduled to be fully completed in 2023.