GERD is a model African development project with a range of benefits for the region: Sudanese Analyst
Addis Ababa, April 2, 2023 (FBC) – The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a model African development capable of ensuring a wide range of benefits for countries in the region, the Sudanese analyst, journalist and former diplomat Mekki Elmograbi said.
In an exclusive interview with Fana Broadcasting Corporate, Mekki Elmograbi noted that the Ethiopian hydroelectric dam is an environmental friendly project that would give impetus to socio-economic endeavors in the African continent.
GERD is instrumental to address shortage of electricity, enhance regional economic integration and support key economic activities through power supply, he explained.
Attempts to internationalize the issues are not helpful, he underscored, saying negotiation between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan is the only way to resolve the issues related to the dam.
“I have visited the GERD sites three times since its commencement. I maintain my positive attitude towards the dam for it has no positive impact on the riparian countries. Rather it is significant to ensure power link and economic integration.”
The dam prevents siltation and flooding that are affecting Sudan, and provides clean water used for irrigation and other development activities to lower riparian countries,
If we Africans are well connected, integrated and united, we can defend our continental development projects like GERD from external negative narratives, he said.
Attempts to internationalize the GERD issue are not helpful. Rather, all concerned countries should seek an African solution by bringing their issues to the table to address their differences on the construction and operationalization of the dam, he added.
Regarding the Pretoria Agreement, Mekki Elmograbi witnessed that Ethiopia is currently enjoying the peace dividend in many aspects.
“I have been to Ethiopia recently. I could observe that many things are returning to their previous condition. The tourism and investment sectors are resuscitating. I believe that Ethiopia can build on the changes and bring durable peace.” Mekki Elmograbi remarked.
Regarding the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Sudan, Mekki Elmograbi pointed out that the two nations are in a better potion to solve their border dispute through dialogue and reinvigorate their ties based on mutual benefits.
People to people ties between the two countries must be strengthened and Ethiopian and Sudanese business people should arrange joint forums to enhance trade and economic ties between their respective countries, Mekki Elmograbi underscored.
He highlighted the need to establish an African media, citing the call made by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the 36th AU Summit as an inspiring remark to materialize the continental initiative.
“The proposed African media would help Africans to tell their own stories by themselves,” he noted.
By: Wondesen Aregahegn