By Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit in a significant announcement has said South Sudan is looking forward to signing an agreement with Sisterly Ethiopia to have hydroelectric power from grand renaissance dam.
In a statement issued by the presidential press unit, the President made the pronouncement on Tuesday as he addressed the inauguration of the grand Ethiopian renaissance dam.
“The dam is not just a project; it’s a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and integration,” President Kiir said.
According to the statement, the President hailed the government and people of Ethiopia for the official opening of the grand renaissance dam, stating the dam is not just a project but also a symbol of unity, sacrifice and determination.
The statement underscored President Kiir described the dam as “a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and determination,” applauding Ethiopia for its tenacity and national vision.
“It shows what a nation can do and achieve when the people come together,” statement partly read.
“Ethiopia is not just a neighbour. I want to tell them that we are brothers and sisters. We have a shared history, friendship, and a common future. That’s why today we celebrate with you.” It noted.
The statement emphasized that President Kiir’s speech struck a chord of Pan-Africanism, noting that the progress of one country strengthens the resilience of the whole region.
“We believe the progress of one nation is the progress of all. Together, we can turn our challenges into opportunities for peace, stability, and growth” it read.
It further underlined the president he will illuminate towns, villages, schools, and hospitals, while opening up opportunities for the people.
Additionally, it highlighted that the Head of State concluded on a note of hope and cooperation:
“May the dam bring power, strength, and prosperity to your people and to our region” statement read.
The statement underscored the Dam was constructed on the Blue Nile River at a cost of 5 billion US dollars, the GERD will produce more than 6,000 megawatts of electricity, making Ethiopia a regional energy hub and accelerating development in East Africa.
It further stated that the ceremony attracted African and Caribbean leaders, marking a growing sense of intercontinental cooperation and a united vision for infrastructure-led transformation.
Ethiopia–South Sudan relations are bilateral relations between Ethiopia and South Sudan. Both countries enjoyed historic, cultural and anthropogeographical relations.