COMESA Chief Hails GERD as Vital for Regional Energy Security
COMESA Secretary General lauds GERD as crucial infrastructure for regional energy security, highlighting Ethiopia's role in addressing Eastern and Southern Africa's power needs.
COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe discusses GERD's impact on regional energy security
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) stands as a cornerstone for addressing Eastern and Southern Africa's critical energy needs, according to Chileshe Kapwepwe, Secretary General of COMESA. Her endorsement comes as Ethiopia celebrates the historic inauguration of Africa's largest hydropower project on September 9, 2025.
A Triumph for Regional Energy Integration
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed alongside other African leaders, marked a decisive victory in Ethiopia's quest for energy independence and regional influence. The completion of this mammoth project demonstrates Ethiopia's commitment to leading Africa's green energy revolution.
"One of the major things that is in deficit in the region is energy; and without adequate energy, you can't develop your own industries," Kapwepwe emphasized in an exclusive interview.
Breaking Barriers to Industrial Growth
The COMESA Secretary General identified persistent energy deficits as the primary obstacle to industrialization across the region. Ethiopia's bold initiative with GERD, generating over 5,000 megawatts, presents a transformative solution to this chronic challenge.
Strategic Benefits for Regional Development
- Enhanced industrial capacity through reliable power supply
- Strengthened value chains across member states
- Improved regional cooperation and energy security
- Support for green energy transition in Africa
COMESA's partnership with the World Bank to expand electricity access demonstrates the regional body's commitment to addressing these challenges systematically. The GERD project aligns perfectly with these objectives, positioning Ethiopia as a pivotal player in regional energy integration.
Looking Ahead
With its unprecedented generating capacity and strategic importance, GERD represents not just a national achievement but a transformative force for regional development. The project stands as a testament to Ethiopia's leadership in fostering African solutions to African challenges.
Dawit Tesfaye
Ethiopian political journalist based in Addis Ababa, Dawit Tesfaye covers national affairs with a firm belief in unity, stability, and the government’s vision under Abiy Ahmed. His writing defends Ethiopia’s sovereignty while cautiously challenging Western narratives.