GERD Transformative Project that Interlinks Water, Energy and Dev’t: AGRA Partnerships, Business Dev't Chief

Addis Ababa, February 13, 2026 (ENA)—Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a transformative project that has interconnected water, energy and development, Kassi Carl Manlan, Partnerships and Business Development Chief at Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) said.

Noting the importance of water in producing energy which is vital for accelerating productivity and to be self-reliant through creating viable business opportunity in various sectors, he added that no country can have development without energy.

In this respect, he pointed out Ethiopia's ongoing initiatives on water sustainability and clean energy development as exemplary for other African nations.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is designed to enhance energy capacity, exemplifies the integration of energy, water, and development that are crucial elements needed for advancing the continent, the Chief said.

“You have a grand dam that has been built here to increase energy capacity. It is a project where energy, water and development are connected. Those are missing elements, missing links in what we need to achieve on the continent,” Manlan elaborated.

Beyond enhancing energy capacity of the nation, the dam can foster regional integration through power connectivity, he noted.

Manlan further stressed that the remarkable achievements that Ethiopia has utilized water in efficient manner could inspire other African countries to pursue self-sufficiency. 

He also encouraged collaborative efforts among African nations to harness the unique potentials of each country to propel overall growth and development in the continent.