Political Party Representatives Pledge Collaboration on National Interests

Addis Ababa, June 20, 2025 (ENA)— Members of various political parties have expressed their commitment to working together on matters that ensure the national interest and the benefits of citizens, regardless of political differences.

The political party representatives made the remarks during a visit to the construction site of the Koysha Hydroelectric Dam Project, currently underway on the Omo River.

 The visitors said the project is a monumental national undertaking that represents a lasting asset of great significance to Ethiopia.

 They also noted that the scale and progress of the construction exceeded their expectations, calling it a powerful example of what can be achieved through unity and shared vision.

 If Ethiopia continues to harness its resources effectively, rapid and transformative development is achievable, the visitors stated.

 Furthermore, the representatives reaffirmed their dedication to contributing to the nation’s ongoing development efforts across various sectors.

 Upon completion, the Koysha Hydropower Project will have a capacity to generate 1,800 megawatt, making it the second-largest power-producing dam in the country after the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

The 2.5-billion-euro project is located between Konta Koysha Woreda in the Konta Zone of the Southwestern Ethiopian People's Region and Melo Koza Woreda in the Gofa Zone of the South Ethiopia Region.

Project coordinators reported that the dam’s construction has reached 65 percent completion.

They also emphasized the project's design, which aims to address local social and economic challenges, protect the environment, and significantly enhance tourism potential in the area.

The representatives have also visited Halala Kela Resort and Gibe III Hydroelectric Project.

 

They described Halala Kela Eco Lodge as a remarkable international destination where historical legacy and modern architectural artistry seamlessly converge.

 During the visit, Ashebir Tadesse, Democratic Culture Building and Electoral Affairs Bureau Head at the Prosperity Party Headquarters, remarked that the national reform has created a new political atmosphere conducive to collaboration among competing political parties.

Large-scale projects such as Halala Kela have been executed with quality and efficiency, becoming engines of economic growth, he noted, adding that the Halala Kela Eco-Tourism Resort represents vast development potential, preserving historical values while incorporating modern construction techniques.

Dawro Zone Chief Administrator, Dawit Gebeyehu, on his part stated that Halala Kela Resort, developed under the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, unveils the hidden history of the region and is emerging as a key tourism destination.

 He added that the resort is also creating jobs for local youth and revitalizing the zone’s tourism sector.

 Benishangul-Gumuz Region Prosperity Party Branch Democratic Culture Building Sector Head, Geleta Hailu, also noted that Halala Kela serves as an inspirational model for launching tourism-driven development projects in the region.

 Afar Liberation Front Party Deputy Chairman, Haji Ismael Mohammed, also acknowledged the major infrastructure projects already completed or under construction, emphasizing their significant contribution to Ethiopia’s economic growth.

 Deputy Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Joint Council of Political Parties and Head of the Youth Wing of the Wolaita National Movement, Tegabu Dejene described Halala Kela as a stunning international tourist destination where history and contemporary design are beautifully integrated, stressing its role in advancing tourism and service sectors across southern Ethiopia.

 Gambella Region Ezema Party Deputy Head, Gatbel Bol also affirmed that Halala Kela has unlocked immense potential for tourism development in the region.

The competing political party leaders further emphasized the importance of the discussion they had with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in fostering national unity, promoting shared development, and sustaining peace.

They noted that such discussions are instrumental in nurturing a healthy democratic culture based on peaceful political competition in the post-reform era.