Please watch the video above. It is is a unique discussion on Alexander’s Hamilton’s contributions to economic progress through examiningthe policies of China, Africa, and the U.S.
September 3, 2026
China believes it is better to contribute to the development of African nations, to not have their populations suffer in poverty, but rather experience a continuous rising standard of living. The West does not!
Contrary to constant maligning of China by the West, accusing it of conducting a new form of colonialism against the people of Africa, China has been an indispensable partner for development. There is not and never has been a “debt-trap “ policy to seize mineral resources of African nations. Any American official repeating this defamation is either an ignorant fool or a liar. The West dominated the African continent for decades, while China has only recently in this century, expanded its involvement with the nations of Africa. The creation by China, of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2003, has established a unique political, economic cooperative relationship with African nations.
As Alexander Hamilton understood, and his followers of his school of economic thought, which became known as the American System of Political Economy knew, the key to the growth of a nation, and its economy, is to increase the productive powers of labor. This requires a growth in manufacturing, it requires massive investments in infrastructure, and it requires nurturing the creativity of the population to discover new scientific principles, from which new technologies are derived. With the application of new technological advancements, the economy is able to leap, if you will, to a higher level of productivity, generating greater economic output.
This is what should be understood by Western officials. There are people in China who think this way. Presently, we don’t have people in the West, and the United States in particular, who refuse to comprehend these essential elements of economic growth. The Western political-financial elites are mired in a monetarist world dominated by making money, which they foolishly believe is wealth. They lack any understanding of what the requirements are to actually develop an economy physically, nor the necessity to promote a culture that fosters the creative potential of its people. They don’t understand the difference between making a so called profit from monetary speculation, the stock market, or manipulating the market, as opposed to increasing the profitability of the physical economy. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is attacked by the United States and the West, who fail to comprehend that the BRI is a modern day extension of Hamilton’s economic principles.
China has proved, beyond any question, that their investments in science and technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing in particular, have transformed their economy, their society. With the proven reality of this success, China can lead the Global South on a pathway of real economic development
The African continent is projected to have the largest population in the world-approximately 2.5 billion people by 2050. That’s not a burden. It is a resource of new creative minds, which are the real source of value for any economy, more valuable than minerals or artificial intelligence.
I believe watching this video will help you understand these principles that I have outlined above.
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
I was surprised but not entirely shocked to receive this certificate of appreciation signed by the President of Ethiopia, H.E. Taye Atske Selassie.
I was one of the very few Americans, and the most vociferous, in defending the sovereignty of Ethiopia from the regime change attempt by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), in their war against the nation-state of Ethiopia, from November 2020 to November 2022. I put my personal reputation on the line, and placed myself in opposition to my own government, who made known to me their disapproval of my actions. Defending Ethiopian sovereignty from an ethnic nationalist militia that was trying to remove the elected government of Ethiopia, was not a difficult decision for me, it was almost instinctive.
I have been involved in analyzing the political economies of African nations for almost four decades and have developed an extremely sensitive “political nose” if you will, to operations to destabilize and overthrow African nations. I knew in days, with certainty, that the TPLF initiated war, was part of a larger political operation, supported by the Western nations including the United States, to weaken and potentially remove, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed from power. I never wavered in my support of the nation-state of Ethiopia during the war, and have remained steadfast today, while others have deserted the defense of Ethiopia.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam-Office of the Prime Minister
What Caused Me to Act?
For me, the actions of a government to develop its economy, by investing in infrastructure, and the expansion of its manufacturing and agricultural sectors are of extreme significance in determining its viability. I decided in 2010, to begin a more serious analysis of Ethiopia and its political economy. This led me to investigate its policies over previous decades and its plans for its future development. I published my analysis of Ethiopia’s commitment to economic growth on my website. My first visit to Ethiopia was in 2014, following three days of meetings in N’Djamena, Chad, where I was appointed the Vice Chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. Since then, I have visited Ethiopia many times, often in defiance of the U.S. government, that was ordering Americans to leave Addis Ababa in 2021, offering to purchase tickets for their departure.
I was, and am aware today of the challenges in Ethiopia, especially the dangerous escalation of ethnic nationalism. However, it is Ethiopia’s overall commitment to progress, that surpasses that of other African nations, which has steered me to defend Ethiopia’s sovereignty. My awareness of Ethiopia’s intent to initiate the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), reinforced my views of Ethiopia’s commitment to the future. I supported the building of the GERD early on because of its importance in bringing electricity to this African nation and its neighbors to power their economies and people. I know very well that Africa’s huge deficit in electricity is killing Africans everyday across the continent. Subsequently, I visited the GERD twice and participated in the book launch of the most complete history of the GERD.* The GERD remains today, the most significant accomplishment in sub-Saharan Africa since the liberation movement freed African nations from British Imperialism. This fantastic water infrastructure project, has the potential to provide African nations with 5,150 megawatts of electrical power, dwarfing any other energy source on the continent.
The author standing in front of five of the thirteen completed waterways that deliver the water to the turbines.
The Ethiopians began planning for this magnificent dam in the 1960s, under the leadership of Emperor Haile Salaisse. Sixty years before the GERD was to begin operations, Ethiopia envisioned capturing the energy of the Blue Nile flowing down from lake Tana. Thus far, it is a singular accomplishment in Africa, by the Ethiopian people. Currently plans exist by Ethiopia to exploit the water rich Blue Nile Basin with the construction of additional water infrastructure projects.
After reading the history of the Ethiopia’s defeat of the Italian army on the battlefield of Adwa, on March 1st, 1896, I recognized the impetus for the bold thinking of the people of Ethiopia, to build this massive dam more than a century later. Ethiopia free from having never experiencing the shackles of colonialism, had higher aspirations for their nation’s future.
The Defeat of the Italian Army on March 1, 1896, prevented the European colonization of Ethiopia-Wikipedia
How DID I Know?
While western governments, international and regional media predicted that Ethiopia would collapse when the TPLF was marching south towards Addis Ababa; I knew that the Ethiopian people would not allow this to occur. Furthermore, I understood these false predictions as a form of psychological warfare to defeat the Ethiopian people. I stood virtually alone as a Westerner in my knowledge of the resilience and patriotism of the Ethiopian people. Addis Ababa was not invaded, Ethiopia did not fall, and the TPLF were forced to surrender. I was right. All my former and current colleagues and friends, and those who claim to know how geopolitical forces operate in Africa, who ridiculed me for my position in defense of Ethiopia, turned out to be dead wrong. How did I know?
I have trained myself to think differently. I’ve trained myself to withstand the force of public opinion, ridicule, and peer group pressure. I am able to reach a conclusion through the reasoning of my mind, founded on my knowledge of the people, the history of a nation, and the geopolitical intent of the West’s rules-based order. My actions are guided by decisions informed by reason, from which I will not waver unless persuaded by superior reasoning. This is what makes me valuable as an analyst and consultant, together with my expertise as a physical economist. Some countries, institutions, and thoughtful individuals recognize and appreciate my unique qualities, and thus are willing to collaborate with me. Others who are less thoughtful, do not.
*How this Happened: Demystifying The Nile,History and Events Leading to the Realization of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, by Dereje Befekadu Tessema
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
In my thirty minute discussion on OBN, with Addis Assefa, I outline the fundamental national interests of Ethiopia and how to achieve them.April 10, 2026.
June 21, 2026
The government of Ethiopia has two primary obligations to its citizens. One, to adopt policies that lead to a continuous improvement in the standard of living of the entire population. Two, to safeguard and preserve the integrity of Ethiopia as a nation state, emphasizing the quality of Ethiopian citizenship as opposed to a so called ethnic-nationalist identity.
The vulnerabilities to the Ethiopian state, like any nation, emanate from lack of economic development of its society. Poor people become desperate people, and desperate people can be manipulated to act against the interest of their nation. Therefore, government must initiate policies and programs that significantly reduce, if not eliminate poverty, and substantially raise the wages of its citizens. A national development agenda that is inclusive of all regions and ethnicities of Ethiopia is the best method for achieving Ethiopia’s two fundamental national interests. If citizens perceive that their government is pursuing efforts to improve their lives they will respond supportively.
The creation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, the GERD, is not only a singular accomplishment for Ethiopia and its people, but for all of Africa. It indicates the potential of Ethiopia to address other economic and societal challenges. It provides desperately needed electricity, not only to Ethiopia but to other nations in East Africa. While Addis Ababa has been transformed over the last decade, other regions of Ethiopia require the same attention and infusions of infrastructure. Agriculture has vastly improved, especially in wheat production, through farm collectives and the expanded use of irrigation. Manufacturing has increased, but Ethiopia, like every nation who desires to achieve economic sovereignty, requires a robust indigenous manufacturing sector.
Ethiopian diaspora correctly supported the government of Abiy Ahmed in its two year war against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). If this regime-change war initiated by the TPLF had been successful, the nation of Ethiopia would have been destroyed, leaving behind warring ethnic fiefdoms. Victory by the government of Ethiopia was existential. Following the peace agreement, Ethiopian diaspora in the U.S., with the vast majority of their allies, have lined up in support of one or another of ethnic nationalist groups, who are once again involved in regime change.
Watch my thirty minute discussion above, to understand the best approach for Ethiopia to realize its true national interests
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for over 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
Watch my full interview form the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam: Ethiopians changing the physical universe for the benefit of humanity.
September 11, 2025
This interview below was conducted by Ethiopian News Agency-ENA in May of this year when I visited the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam
US Analyst Says GERD Inauguration Marks a Major Injection of Energy for Africa
Addis Ababa, September 9, 2025 (ENA) — Ethiopia has set an excellent example for the rest of the African continent through the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a new benchmark for regional integration, an internationally respected American analyst, Lawrence Freeman, said.
The dam, with a 5,150 megawatt of hydroelectric power to the East African nation, was inaugurated on Tuesday in the presence of leaders from Africa and the Caribbean.
Freeman, who has visited the Grand Renaissance Dam, had an exclusive interview with ENA at the site of the dam, Guba, Benishangul region of Ethiopia.
For the U.S. analyst, Ethiopia has accomplished a “great feat’ in building this hydroelectric dam.
According to him, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has several implications for Africa.
He elaborated that the dam, in particular, will help the entire Horn of Africa, and actually East Africa, benefit from adequate electricity.
Currently, Ethiopia is supplying electricity to Djibouti, to Kenya, to Sudan, and is planning to soon supply electricity to Tanzania.
“ So the economic integration has already begun. Now, from my standpoint, as a physical economist, we need a lot more energy for Ethiopia for Africa, but this (GERD) is the biggest injection of energy onto the continent.”
And it also now places Ethiopia as the second largest producer of energy in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Freeman underscored.
According to the analyst, Ethiopia has created a great model for African countries to follow. By building up its energy supply, Ethiopia is working to improve its citizens’ standard of living, grow its manufacturing and irrigation sectors, and reduce poverty. The rest of the continent should look to Ethiopia as an example.
“We need every African country to follow the model of Ethiopia and build an energy supply that can raise the standard of living of the people, increase the manufacturing sector, increase irrigation, and eliminate poverty. So, Ethiopia has set an excellent example for the rest of the continent.”
He finally urged African countries as well as Westerners to visit the GERD and witness what has been accomplished. He added that this achievement should serve as an example for others to follow.
“I feel privileged that I can visit it twice, and other nations and other people in the region, and some of the Westerners who are not really up to snuff about what’s going on in Africa, everybody should come and visit the GERD and see for themselves what has been accomplished. And then that should be emulated,” he stated
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
Horn of Africa Digest interview with Lawrence Freeman and African Renaissance Television Services (ARTS) on August 28, 2025
September 8, 2025
One the eve of the official inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, learn everything you need to know about the GERD, geopolitically, culturally, historically, and economically, by watching this informative discussion by Ethiopian experts and myself.
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
My presentation in the podcast above, was focused on the significance of Ethiopia’s completion of the Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD). I provide my reasoning that the GERD, which will be officially inaugurated in September, can be considered the most momentous accomplishment for Africa since the liberation from colonialism. The GERD, generating 5,150 megawatts, will be the largest hydro-electric dam in Africa, and one of the largest in the world. On a continent that is starving for electricity, the GERD stands out as a singular accomplishment by an emerging nation addressing its power deficit. This infrastructure marvel, self-funded by the Ethiopian people, up-ends the negative narrative about Africa. This massive, unique structure, generating much needed electricity, can help serve as a model for other nations.
The failure of Western governments, institutions, and media, to publicize this success by Ethiopia, speaks volumes. It exposes their failure to understand the invaluable economic worth of “infrastructure led development,” by an African nation.
It remains unclear how President Trump’s administration will respond to the announcement of the GERD’s completion. At times, in both of his
Presidencies, he has supported Egypt’s false narrative that alleges the GERD will reduce the flow of the Nile River to Egypt. The U.S. has significant financial and geopolitical interests in supporting Egypt in its allegations against Ethiopia’s GERD. Let us hope that President Trump has the vision to comprehend the multi-dimensional contributions of the GERD for Ethiopia and the entire African continent.
Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
Lawrence Freeman visiting Friendship Park in Addis Ababa on his first day in Ethiopia.
HORN REVIEW: IDEAS CONNECTIONS SYNERGY SIXTEENTH EDITION: Grand Narratives as Foundational Constructs of Ethiopia’s Foreign Policy
Lawrence Freeman is a distinguished researcher and analyst with over 30 years of experience specializing in the social, political, and economic dynamics of the African continent. Freeman has dedicated significant attention to Ethiopia, producing a wealth of insightful commentaries on the country’s evolving challenges and opportunities. Interview by Horn Review, was conducted during Mr. Freeman’s visit to Ethiopia (May 12-25, 2025)
“GERD, Agricultural Reforms and the Future of Regional Integration in the Horn of Africa”
Horn Review: Professor Freeman, welcome to our podcast. Great to have you here. Lawrence Freeman: Thank you very much.
Horn Review: From your perspective, how would you assess the trajectory of Ethiopia’s current agricultural reform agenda? Are the recent state-led initiatives showing signs of structural change? Lawrence Freeman: Yes, I would say that the progress being made by Ethiopia in agriculture is very significant. The government thinks they have already reached self-sufficiency on wheat in 2022/23, and they’re projecting they may be able to produce 30 million tons of wheat in 2025. Several things have taken place that have made it effective. One is they’re increasing the use of irrigation, which is necessary for modern farming. This has increased the number of hectares where they can grow crops. Second, Ethiopian farming was based on subsistence farming of one to two hectares, but now the concept is cluster farming, where groups of farmers come together, prepare the land, plant, plow, and use advanced machinery collectively. This collective strength has led to a huge increase in productivity and income per hectare, according to the agricultural department. These are some of the things Ethiopia is doing, and pretty much Ethiopia should no longer be importing any food from this point on. This is very important because Africa, for no good reason, was importing tens of billions of dollars of food across the continent, even though the land was perfectly capable and was self-sufficient in the 60s and 70s. Due to neoliberal economic policies, development stopped. Ethiopia is playing a very good role in promoting this kind of development. This has been one of the driving points of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. They have reduced levies on buying tractors and equipment and reduced taxes. The whole orientation of promoting agriculture is substantial and hopefully will continue.
Horn Review: How do you view the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as a strategic asset for agricultural transformation in Ethiopia? Do you see it meaningfully supporting irrigation and mechanization in the short or long term?
The magnifiant Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, almost completed–May 2025
Lawrence Freeman: Since May 2025, almost everything has been completed; all 13 turbines and waterways have been constructed that bring water down to the turbines. They are now in the testing phase, with about six turbines operating and testing the remaining seven. The target for completion and inauguration is likely to be in September or earlier.
This is a huge plus for Ethiopia. The dam holds 74 billion cubic meters of water, which will essentially push water out to irrigate the entire area, as Ethiopia has numerous river systems. Although the water flow from the dam is not to be used for agriculture, but for hydroelectric power, the increase in water presence and moisture in the area will affect agriculture. Of course, there will be more electricity. The dam’s capability right now is about 2,600 megawatts, but it was reaching about 1,800 megawatts when I visited the GERD. Once you begin to utilize more of the 5,150 megawatts available, you start electrifying rural areas. When poor farmers in rural districts begin to have electricity, that changes everything. As you get more electricity to rural areas, you transform productivity, farming, and make every farmer and worker more productive.
Horn Review: Do you think the West recognizes the significance of Ethiopia building the largest hydroelectric dam on the continent? Lawrence Freeman: No, I don’t think there has been enough recognition by the West, certainly not by the United States or Europe. Ethiopia is building the largest hydroelectric dam on the continent and the 17th largest in the world. This is a real plus, which unfortunately the West ignores or doesn’t want to recognize at this point. Horn Review: What would you say is the effect of increasing energy production on Ethiopia’s food security and economy?
Lawrence Freeman:Electricity is the most important single ingredient to a successful economy. Infrastructure is essential. You need infrastructure that includes electricity, rail transportation, road transportation, and water management. All this creates the platform on which the entire physical economy rests. The denser and more advanced your infrastructure platform is, the more it raises productivity at all levels of the economy. For example, across Africa, 30 to 40% of food rots before it reaches the market; in Ethiopia, it’s about 30%. To correct that, you need infrastructure that gets food to market quickly, such as modern fast rail transportation and refrigerated cars to keep food from spoiling. This all requires electricity and roads. There’s no way to become an industrialized economy and lift all people out of poverty without infrastructure, and electricity is the key to infrastructure. With the completion of the dam and the addition of 5,150 megawatts, Ethiopia will become the second-largest electricity producer in sub-Saharan Africa, only behind South Africa, which has a nuclear power plant. That is significant, but not enough for 130 million people. Every part of society must be connected to electricity to achieve real independent sovereignty of development and reach its potential.
Lawrence Freeman looking at the GERD reservoir that holds 74 billion cubic meters of water
Horn Review: How might the electricity generated by the dam reshape rural economies and agribusiness within Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa region?
Lawrence Freeman: Ethiopia has already begun regional economic integration because electricity is now being exported to Djibouti, North Sudan, and Kenya. Before the end of the year, there will be transmission to Tanzania. Electricity from the dam is transported to Ethiopia’s grid and then through power lines to neighboring countries. Djibouti and Kenya want to increase imports of electicity. Ethiopia is already practicing regional integration with the African Free Trade Area. Ethiopia’s agricultural model, successful over five years, is something other countries should emulate. Development is the key to peace, security, raising living standards, and creativity. I have been coming here for 11 years and have seen impressive progress.
Horn Review: How do you assess the regional implications of Ethiopia’s agricultural and energy policies for neighboring countries such as Kenya, Sudan, Somalia, and Djibouti, especially in the context of transboundary water and food systems?
Lawrence Freeman: Water is a big issue in Africa. People think there’s always a danger of water wars, but there is a lot of water in Africa; the problem is it’s not always in the right place. We have to build appropriate canals and waterways to take water from where it is to where it’s needed. I saw this on some farms, where people are building waterways to bring water to crop areas. The Nile is the longest river in the world, but not the most voluminous. Ten countries in the Nile basin all use Nile water, which will not last forever. My view is we must move toward rapid nuclear-powered desalination to take salt out of Mediterranean seawater and build the equivalent of a second Nile. The idea of competition over the Nile is not the right way to look at it; it’s about development. Egyptians have adopted a British imperialist policy because Queen Victoria gave it to them in 1903; it’s their river. This is artificial. The first agreement was in 1929 between the British Sudan and Egypt, both under British control, which is British imperialism. The second agreement in 1959 was between Egypt and Sudan, no longer under British control, but with the same division of water. Ethiopia wasn’t at either conference. The water from the Blue Nile is not part of any agreement, but the colonial view is that they must have guarantees on the water from the Blue Nile. The dam has three mechanisms to maintain a continuous flow of water downstream, so downstream countries get a more regulated and concentrated flow from the reservoir.
Five of the thirteen waterways of the GERD that direct water from the reservoir to drive the turbines
Sudan is intimidated by Egypt, but it should align with Ethiopia they benefit from it. Egypt should give up this colonialist mentality. They never saw the Blue Nile basin as a development but as a water tank to be used in droughts to help Egyptian farmers. There is huge potential in the Blue Nile basin; three additional hydroelectric plants can be built. None would be as large as the GERD, but would add electricity. We are at the beginning of the process. The idea is to think in terms of development and countries working together for the development of the nations of the Nile. It’s a fate accompli; nothing can stop the dam, but a more enlightened mentality is needed.
This also relates to port access to the Red Sea, another important waterway. The 1993 agreement, after Eritrea separated, left the port of Assab, a natural port for Ethiopia, in southern Eritrea, but it’s not used. Eritreans can’t see the benefit of working with Ethiopia. Ethiopia’s economy is the biggest and fastest-growing in East Africa. Developing that port would bring revenue, commerce, trade, and millions of tons of freight. But antagonisms and shortsightedness prevent progress.
From a physical economist’s standpoint, a good leader must think 20 to 40 years ahead for future generations. It’s natural that an agreement on Assab would be worked out to fight poverty and hunger in the region. People don’t think this way. Hopefully, there will be a peaceful resolution for additional port access because Djibouti charges a lot for access. These are issues to be dealt with by thoughtful leaders for the benefit of their people to raise living standards. Once material standards rise and people live dignified lives, they can focus on developing creative minds. But you can’t get there without material existence.
Horn Review: In light of this, do you see viable frameworks for cooperation around the dam that could support regional food security and climate resilience, or are geopolitical tensions likely to overshadow such efforts?
Horn of Africa, which has huge potential for development (courtesy of hiiraan.com)
Lawrence Freeman: Much of what happens here is shaped by history. Ethiopia is the only country not conquered. I recently saw the museum that Prime Minister Abiy built, celebrating Adwa. My suggestion is that whatever day they inaugurate the dam, they add it as a national holiday, GERD Day, because it can unify the country. Unfortunately, there is a history involving British colonialism, Somalia, Italian colonialism, and Eritrea, which in various ways were manipulated. Somalia, and Somaliland were independent for about five or six days before forming the nation. Somaliland has been functioning almost independently for 30 years or more. This colonial legacy and antagonism prevent regional economic development.
Ethiopia, like all African countries, uses a tiny fraction of its arable land. There is potential for land and actual use of arable land, and an even tinier fraction is irrigated. Ethiopia has just started irrigation, which is excellent. This concept can be used in all African countries. One of my missions is to end poverty and hunger in Africa. Many still live in poverty with very low income per capita. This must change. You can’t do that unless you produce more wealth and put more people to work. The transformation plan and home-grown economic reform of the Prime Minister emphasize manufacturing.
Africa has been prevented from producing real manufacturing industries. Less than 3% of total manufactured goods in the world come from Africa. Ethiopia is working on light industry, leather, and adding value to agricultural products like coffee, the biggest export. Building up manufacturing, next to infrastructure, is an essential part of an economy.
The fundamental issue is that the constitution has to be changed. Everyone knows that, but you need a robust, maybe contentious, discussion, debate, and dialogue with the people of Ethiopia. You have to attack the notion of national ethnic identity, not ethnic culture, but ethnic identity. What must be reinforced is that Ethiopia is a nation-state and its people are citizens of a nation-state, not members of a national ethnicity. Ethnic nationalism is the enemy and is deeply ingrained. There is no congruence between ethnic nationalism and citizenship. People should not give up their rich history, but must see themselves as members of a nation.
Lawrence Freeman, studying the victorious Battle of Adwa that helped shape the identity of Ethiopia
Horn Review: That’s a profound idea. How should international partners engage with Ethiopia’s dual push for food self-sufficiency and energy leadership, given the sensitivity surrounding the dam and regional politics?
Lawrence Freeman: The international community doesn’t understand economic development or Ethiopia. There are many NGOs and international organizations, some being dismantled by the US, but they don’t focus on questions that would change society. If you want to improve life, bring democracy, and good governance, you must put electricity at the top of the list. Without electricity, people don’t develop. Good governance over poverty is meaningless. The West must change its thinking. Look at why Western leaders haven’t complimented Ethiopia on the GERD, the largest hydroelectric dam built without money from World Bank or IMF. Why haven’t presidents visited the GERD? The West is ideologically deficient and prejudiced against development, so they’re not good partners now. This will change because China is outproducing the US in many economic sectors, and the US is contracting its manufacturing base.
The West’s ideology is collapsing, and China and BRICS are growing. Ethiopia is one of three African countries in BRICS. The Global South is forming new political and economic relations based on a new paradigm of development and growth. Hopefully, enlightened leaders in Africa, Latin America, and others will recognize that the world is no longer fixed in a hierarchy. The West must change and recognize that Africa needs long-term, low-interest credit for infrastructure to build hydroelectric and nuclear power plants. Infrastructure itself may not make money, but it raises the economy’s profitability. We should unite with China to help African nations build infrastructure to eliminate poverty and hunger. The West should work with Africa in critical transformational areas.
Garment factory in Ethiopia. Many tens of thousands of Ethiopians employed in the garment industry
Horn Review: From a regional integration perspective, what role could Ethiopia’s emerging industrial base, especially agro-processing and light manufacturing, play in reshaping trade and economic interdependence in Africa?
Lawrence Freeman: Ethiopia’s major export is coffee, which can have added value. Ethiopia is self-sufficient in wheat and can start exporting wheat for foreign exchange. Africa wastes foreign exchange on buying agricultural products and importing food. Ethiopia is close to eliminating this system. Ethiopia has 165 million livestock, the largest in Africa, which supports the leather industry. Ethiopia plans to build steel plants. Ethiopia needs national industries like steel, aluminum, and cement to avoid buying from other countries on their terms.
The West controls the terms of trade. Producing your own goods increases revenue. Tourism is important, but service and tourism make up 40% of GDP, which is not ideal because service and tourism bring revenue but not wealth. Manufacturing, agriculture, and mining should be emphasized. Gold is a big revenue source now. Ethiopia should focus on industry. Ethiopia’s leaders understand this. I’ve worked with many African countries that don’t grasp this economic concept. Ethiopia understands this. There are problems, but progress exists. Maybe it’s not fast enough or comprehensive, but it’s a basis for optimism.
Use of mechanized agriculture improves productivity for Ethiopia’s farmers
Horn Review: Ethiopia is also investing heavily in urban infrastructure and industrial parks. How do you assess the role of urban development in facilitating structural transformation, labor mobility, and regional economic competitiveness?
Lawrence Freeman: I toured Addis Ababa with the mayor’s office and have watched the city change since 2014. It’s almost unrecognizable. Policies include clearing polluted rivers, new walkways, and tree planting. Trees are the best way to improve the environment. Trees are important because they absorb CO2 and produce oxygen. Photosynthesis changes climate through transpiration how much water comes up and down. To change deserts; plant trees. Ethiopia has planted 40 billion seedlings, with 10 billion more to go, which is very positive. People displaced from less developed areas along waterways have not been thrown out but resettled with housing, food, and small manufacturing plots like bakeries. This is positive.
The changes in Addis Ababa, farming, and manufacturing are slow but in the right direction. Ethiopia has 130 million people to employ, which is hard, but this is the direction. There are detractors of Prime Minister Abiy, but I follow his policies carefully. I don’t analyze every political nuance but look at substantial results, which are palatable. This should be encouraged and supported. Criticisms are fine if made in good faith to move the country forward. If you want to criticize, propose better policies. Otherwise, keep quiet and let economic development proceed.
Horn Review: Professor Freeman, we’ve had a very insightful discussion. You have enlightened us, and thank you once again for coming on our podcast. Lawrence Freeman: My pleasure. Happy to do it. (all emphasis added)
Read thye current issue of Horn Review below. My interview begins on page 8.
͏Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
Egypt’s Fading Hydro-Hegemony: Rebutting Foreign Minister Abdelatty’s Claims
Dr, Birhanu Lenjiso, Oromiya, Ethiopia
Egypt’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Badr Abdelatty, in discussion with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, made controversial statements regarding his country’s position on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its commitment to safeguarding its water security. His provoking remarks were published by Egypt Today Magazine on July 30, 2025, under the title “Egypt to take all legal measures to Safeguard water security.”
Egypt to take all legal measures to safeguard water security, FM tells US senators
Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington D.C.
While I acknowledges Egypt’s concerns as a downstream riparian state, the assertions made by Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs in many ways misrepresent the legal, technical, and cooperative dimensions of the GERD project. In this rebuttal I will try to address five key issues raised in his conversation with U.S. Senator clarifying Ethiopia’s position and reaffirming her commitment to equitable utilization of the Nile River in accordance with international law.
First, Egypt repeatedly claim that the Nile is an “Existential Issue” and its Sole Water Source. The Minister for Foreign Affairs also reiterated the same position in his discussion. It’s true that Egypt relies on Nile for over 90% of her water needs. This clearly reflects the significance of Nile for Egypt or Egypt’s significant reliance on the Nile river, but it doesn’t by any means negate the legitimate rights of upstream riparian states, like Ethiopia which contributes approximately 85% of the Nile’s flow, to utilize the Nile for their own socio-economic development. This reality has been clouded by Egypt’s now fading hydro-hegemony.
Under the principles of international water law, notably the 1997 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses, all riparian states are entitled to “equitable and reasonable utilization” of shared watercourses. The GERD, a non-consumptive hydropower project, is designed to generate electricity without significantly reducing downstream water flows, thereby aligning with Ethiopia’s sovereign right to harness the Blue Nile, which originates within its territory.
On the flip side of Egypt’s framing of Nile as “Existential matter”, Ethiopia faces its own existential challenges, including energy poverty affecting over 60% of its population and limited access to clean water for millions. The GERD is a critical national project to address these existential challenges, which are no less vital than Egypt’s water needs. Furthermore, Egypt has viable other alternatives to enhance its water security, including improving irrigation efficiency and expanding groundwater extraction or desalination projects like other countries in the region. Framing the Nile as Egypt’s sole water source and existential matter not only overlooks other options but also disregards the shared nature of the river, which necessitates balancing the needs of all Nile Basin states.
Second, the Foreign Minister’s allegation that Ethiopia’s actions violate International Law and the 2015 Declaration of Principles (DoP) is not substantiated by the legal framework governing transboundary watercourses. The DoP, signed by Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan, emphasizes cooperation, equitable utilization, and the principle of causing no significant harm. It does not, however, prohibit Ethiopia from proceeding with the filling or operation of the GERD during negotiations, nor does it grant Egypt or Sudan veto power over Ethiopia’s sovereign development projects, like the colonial-era treaties.
Ethiopia, in fact, has consistently demonstrated good faith by sharing technical data, proposing staged filling schedules to minimize downstream impacts, and engaging in numerous rounds of negotiations facilitated by the African Union and other mediators. Egypt’s claim of unilateral action ignores its own rejection of Ethiopia’s proposed technical solutions and its insistence on maintaining historical water allocations under the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement, to which Ethiopia was not a party and which is not binding under international law. Ethiopia’s actions are consistent with its sovereign rights and the DoP’s spirit of cooperation, whereas Egypt’s demand for guaranteed annual water releases risks undermining the principle of equitable utilization.
Location of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) indicated by the red star, with the basin upstream of the GERD (green) and the Nile Basin (yellow). Source: Ben Zaitchik. Courtesy of www.newsecuritybeat.org
Third, the Foreign Minister also made a claim that GERD threatens the livelihoods of 1.1 million Egyptians and 15% of agricultural lands in his country. This data is speculative and lacks credible evidence linking the GERD operation to such specific impacts. Independent hydrological studies indicate that the GERD’s downstream effects can be effectively mitigated through coordinated filling and operation protocols, particularly during normal or above-average rainfall years. Ethiopia has proposed such measures, including phased filling schedules, which Egypt has consistently rejected in favor of demanding fixed water releases that prioritize its interests over those of other riparian states – in away to maintain her hydro-hegemony.
Moreover, the GERD offers potential benefits to downstream states, including flood regulation and the provision of affordable electricity. Egypt’s portrayal of catastrophic socio-economic consequences overlooks its own water management challenges, such as inefficient irrigation practices, and dismisses the potential for cooperative management to achieve mutual gains. In general, Ethiopia’s pursuit of the GERD is not to cause harm to any riparian country but to address its own pressing developmental needs, which are critical to improving the livelihoods of millions of its citizens.
Fourth, the claim that the United States Support for Egypt’s Water Security is also misleading and harmful for Ethio-American relations. Egypt’s repeated reference to U.S. support for its water security, citing reaffirmation by the former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, does not confer legal or moral superiority to Egypt’s position in the GERD dispute. The United States, as a strategic partner of Egypt, may express diplomatic support, but such statements do not override the principles of international water law, which prioritize equitable and reasonable utilization over unilateral claims. U.S. support for Egypt’s water security is noted, including in statements made by U.S. leaders, but that does not inherently validate Egypt’s position or imply that Ethiopia’s actions are illegitimate.
Ethiopia has sought impartial mediation facilitated by the African Union, which Egypt has undermined by escalating the issue to forums like the United Nations Security Council, which are less suited to resolving technical water disputes. Ethiopia believes and respectfully submits that external endorsements do not negate its legitimate rights to develop the GERD or the need for a balanced resolution that considers the interests of all riparian states.
Fifth, the Foreign Minister made a claim that Egypt has proposed a middle-ground technical and legal solutions, which Ethiopia has persistently refused. This claim misrepresents the dynamics of the GERD negotiations. Ethiopia has consistently offered practical solutions, including staged filling plans and data-sharing mechanisms, to ensure minimal downstream impacts while advancing its developmental objectives. Egypt’s proposals, however, have often centered on preserving its historical hydro-hegemony, which is disproportionate and rooted in colonial-era agreements that excludes Ethiopia. Such demands effectively seek to grant Egypt veto power over the GERD’s operation, undermining Ethiopia’s sovereignty and the principle of equitable utilization.
The breakdown of negotiations reflects mutual challenges in reaching consensus, not solely Ethiopian intransigence. Egypt’s preference for externalizing the dispute, rather than engaging fully in African Union-led processes, has hindered progress toward a cooperative solution. Ethiopia remains committed to good-faith negotiations that respect the rights and needs of all Nile Basin states, in line with the DoP and international law.
In conclusion, Ethiopia as always reaffirms its commitment to the equitable and reasonable utilization of the Nile River, recognizing the shared importance of this vital resource to all riparian states. The GERD is a transformative project aimed at addressing Ethiopia’s existential developmental challenges, including energy poverty and economic underdevelopment, without causing significant harm to downstream neighbors. Egypt’s portrayal of the GERD as an existential threat overlooks the potential for regional cooperation, Ethiopia’s sovereign rights, and the need for modern water management practices in Egypt to complement Nile flows.
Ethiopia continues to call for genuine dialogue under the auspices of the African Union, guided by the principles of the 2015 Declaration of Principles and international water law, to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement. Ethiopia stands ready to collaborate with all riparian countries to ensure the Nile remains a source of prosperity and cooperation for all, rather than a point of contention.
͏Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
Lawrence Freeman standing next to Eng. Ephrem Kiden on his right, and Tesfahun Gobezay, State Min of Communications, on his left in May 2025, in front of the nearly completed GERD
July 24, 2025
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam: A Legacy of Shared Vision & Unified Purpose of Four Ethiopian Leaders
By Dr Birhanu Lenjiso, Oromiya, Ethiopia
1. Introduction
The Nile River, the world’s longest river stretching over 6,650 kilometers, is a lifeline for eleven riparian states, with Ethiopia contributing approximately 85% of its waters through the Blue Nile and other tributaries. Despite this significant contribution, Ethiopia’s access to Nile waters has been curtailed by colonial-era agreements, notably the 1929 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty and the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement, which allocated the majority of Nile waters to Egypt and Sudan while sidelining upstream states like Ethiopia. The treaties that perpetuated an inequitable status quo, prompted Ethiopia to pursue the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a means to reclaim its rightful share of the Nile’s resources.
Initiated in 2011, the GERD is a 5,150 megawatt MW hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile, near the Ethiopian-Sudanese border. Beyond its technical specifications, the GERD embodies Ethiopia’s aspirations for energy security, economic development, and regional influence. The project’s realization is a testament to the vision and resilience of four Ethiopian leaders: Emperor Haile Selassie, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Each leader navigated unique challenges, financial constraints, political instability, and diplomatic pressures, to advance the GERD, transforming it into a symbol of Ethiopian unity, sovereignty, and prosperity.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam under construction
This article examines the historical context of Nile water usage, the pivotal roles of four Ethiopian leaders in advancing the GERD, and the dam’s implications for Ethiopia’s unity, sovereignty, and prosperity. The article underscores how the GERD transcends its role as a hydroelectric project to embody Ethiopia’s resilience, collective purpose, and vision for a prosperous future.
2. Historical Context: Nile Water Use and Ethiopia’s Marginalization
The Nile River’s geopolitics have long been shaped by colonial powers, whose treaties favored downstream states at the expense of upstream contributors like Ethiopia. The 1929 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty granted Egypt veto power over upstream Nile projects, while the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement allocated 55.5 billion cubic meters (bcm) of water annually to Egypt and 18.5 bcm to Sudan, leaving no share for Ethiopia despite its role as the primary source of Nile waters. These agreements, negotiated without Ethiopia’s participation, entrenched a legacy of inequity.
Egypt’s historical dominance over the Nile was not solely diplomatic. Reports suggest Egypt employed covert strategies to maintain control, including leveraging influence within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church to undermine work culture, funding opposition groups, and sponsoring regional conflicts to destabilize Ethiopia. These tactics are aimed to prevent Ethiopia from pursuing large-scale projects on the Nile and to reinforce Egypt’s monopoly over the river’s resources.
Ethiopia’s marginalization persisted through much of the 20th century, exacerbated by internal challenges such as civil wars, famines, and political instability. Despite these obstacles, Ethiopian leaders recognized the Nile’s potential to drive national development. The GERD, envisioned as a transformative project, emerged from decades of aspiration to harness the Blue Nile for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and economic growth.
3. The Contribution of the Four Leaders to the GERD
The GERD’s journey spans over half a century, with four Ethiopian leaders playing critical roles in its conceptualization, initiation, and completion. Their contributions reflect a shared vision and unity of purpose, overcoming formidable domestic and international challenges.
3.1 Emperor Haileselassie (1930–1974): Laying the Foundation
Emperor Haileselassie, Ethiopia’s longest-serving leader, recognized the strategic importance of the Blue Nile for Ethiopia’s development. During his reign, marked by relative stability compared to later periods, Haileselassie sought to modernize Ethiopia and assert its sovereignty over its natural resources. In the 1950s, he turned to the United States for technical expertise, commissioning the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to conduct a comprehensive study of the Blue Nile. In 1964, the Bureau proposed a massive dam at the Guba site, near the Ethiopian-Sudanese border, with the potential to generate significant hydroelectric power and support irrigation.
Emperor Haileselassie with foreign engineers initiating hydroelectric dams
Despite this visionary step, Haileselassie’s ambitions were thwarted by financial constraints and geopolitical pressures. Ethiopia lacked the resources to fund such a mega-project, and Egypt’s opposition, backed by its regional influence, posed a significant barrier. Therefore, the Emperor was forced to shelf the study, but he remained steadfast in his belief that the dam would one day be built. He preserved the U.S. design, entrusting it to future generations with the conviction that Ethiopia’s “children” would fulfill his vision. The downfall of the Emperor in 1974, followed by decades of civil war and political turmoil under the Derg regime, but his foresight laid the intellectual and technical groundwork for the GERD.
3.2 Prime Minister Meles Zenawi (1995–2012) Revived the Dream
The dream of the dam lay dormant on the shelf through decades of civil war and political instability until Prime Minister Meles Zenawi revived it. In 2011, Meles laid the cornerstone for the GERD, announcing an ambitious project based on a modified version of the 1964 U.S. design. With a projected capacity of 5,150 MW, the GERD aimed to address Ethiopia’s chronic energy shortages, power industrialization, and position Ethiopia as a regional energy hub.
Ethiopian Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi
Meles’s leadership was characterized by bold decision-making and a commitment to self-reliance. To circumvent reliance on external funding, which could invite foreign interference, Meles mobilized domestic resources through public contributions, bond sales, and government reallocations. Therefore, GERD is fully financed by the Ethiopian people and government. Meles also navigated Egypt’s vocal opposition, which included diplomatic protests and threats of military action. His strategic foresight ensured the project’s momentum, but his untimely death in 2012 left its future uncertain.
3.3 Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn (2012–2018) Sustained the Momentum
Following Meles’s death, Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn inherited the GERD amid a challenging political and economic landscape. Hailemariam faced internal dissent, economic pressures, and intensified diplomatic tensions with Egypt and Sudan. Despite these obstacles, he sustained the project’s progress through leadership and diplomatic engagement, including the 2015 Declaration of Principles, signed by Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan, which committed to cooperation and equitable use of Nile waters.
Hailemariam’s tenure saw significant construction milestones, including the completion of key structural components. His ability to maintain national support for the GERD, despite domestic unrest and external pressures, underscored the project’s role as a unifying force. Hailemariam’s steady leadership ensured that the GERD remained a national priority, paving the way for its completion under his successor.
3.4 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (2018–Present) Brought the Vision to Fruition
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018, amid a period of political reform and social transformation. Recognizing the GERD’s significance as a symbol of Ethiopian sovereignty and development, Abiy brought renewed energy to the project. His hands-on approach included regular site visits, public campaigns to sustain national support, and efforts to secure additional funding. Under Abiy’s leadership, the GERD reached critical milestones, including the first and second fillings of the reservoir in 2020 and 2021, respectively, and the commencement of power generation in 2022.
Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed
Abiy faced heightened diplomatic challenges, as Egypt escalated its objections through international forums such as the African Union, the United Nations, and the Arab League, while seeking mediation from the United States and the European Union. Despite accusations of unilateralism and threats of conflict, Abiy’s administration navigated these tensions through a combination of diplomacy and resolve, emphasizing Ethiopia’s right to develop its resources. The GERD’s completion under Abiy’s leadership marked a historic achievement, reinforcing Ethiopia’s sovereignty and regional influence.
4. The Implications of GERD for Ethiopian Unity, Sovereignty, and Prosperity
The GERD transcends its role as a hydroelectric dam, embodying Ethiopia’s aspirations for unity, sovereignty, and prosperity. Its implications are multifaceted, reshaping Ethiopia’s national identity and regional standing.
4.1 Unity
The GERD has galvanized Ethiopian society, fostering a sense of collective purpose across ethnic, religious, and political divides. Public contributions to the project, including bond purchases and grassroots fundraising, reflect widespread national ownership. The dam’s significance as a symbol of resilience and self-reliance has unified Ethiopians, particularly during periods of political instability. Leaders leveraged the GERD to rally public support, reinforcing its role as a unifying national project.
4.2 Sovereignty
By asserting control over the Blue Nile, the GERD challenges the historical inequities imposed by the outdated colonial treaties. Ethiopia’s decision to self-finance the project, despite international opposition, underscores its commitment to sovereignty and autonomy. The dam’s completion signals Ethiopia’s emergence as a regional power, capable of shaping Nile geopolitics and advocating for equitable resource sharing among riparian states.
4.3 Prosperity
The GERD promises transformative economic benefits, including energy security, industrialization, and regional energy exports. With a capacity of 5,150 MW, the dam will address Ethiopia’s energy deficit, powering homes, industries, and infrastructure. Its potential to generate revenue through electricity exports to neighboring countries positions Ethiopia as a regional energy hub, fostering economic growth and poverty reduction. The dam also supports agricultural development through regulated water flows, enhancing food security and rural livelihoods.
5. Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its achievements, the GERD remains a focal point of regional tensions. Egypt’s concerns about water security necessitate ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure cooperation. The African Union-led negotiations, initiated under Abiy’s leadership, offer a framework for resolving disputes and promoting equitable Nile water use. Ethiopia’s commitment to the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), which seeks to replace colonial treaties with a fair allocation system, underscores its role as a leader in regional water governance.
Looking ahead, the GERD’s success will depend on Ethiopia’s ability to manage domestic and international challenges. Sustaining national unity, addressing environmental concerns, and fostering regional cooperation will be critical to maximizing the dam’s benefits. The GERD’s legacy will likely inspire other upstream Nile states to pursue similar projects, reshaping the geopolitics of the Nile Basin.
6. Conclusion
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s enduring vision for equitable access to the Nile River and its transformative potential for national development. From Emperor Haileselassie’s foundational efforts to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s completion of the project, the GERD reflects the shared vision and unity of purpose among four Ethiopian leaders. Their contributions, spanning decades of adversity, have transformed the GERD into a symbol of Ethiopian unity, sovereignty, and prosperity. As Ethiopia navigates the challenges and opportunities of the GERD, the dam’s legacy will continue to shape the nation’s identity and its role in the Nile Basin, heralding a new era of prosperity and regional cooperation.
͏Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
On July 14, I participated in an hour long podcast called, The Winers (click on the video above). It was a friendly and informative discussion that centered around Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam-GERD, and its policy for development. After the podcast began with a three minute video of the GERD, we had a lively discussion that included the following topics.
What was wrong with USAID, and will President Trump’s African policy be better for Africa
President trump’s “lunch summit” with five African nations
United States’ historic role surveying the GERD from 1957 to 1964
Egypt’s geopolitical opposition to the GERD
President John Kennedy, the last US leader who understood Africa
Ethiopia’s commitment to expanding its manufacturing sector
Erroneous claim of China’s debt-trap policy
Progress by Ethiopia in agriculture especially production of wheat
The Global South’s opposition to Israel’s genocide in Gaza
Lawrence Freeman, May 2025, standing in front of several of the GERD’s water ways that deliver water to turn the turbines.
͏Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, who has been involved in economic development policies for Africa for 35 years. He is a teacher, writer, public speaker, consultant on Africa, and an analyst of global strategic relations. Mr. Freeman strongly believes that economic development is an essential human right. He is the creator of the blog: lawrencefreemanafricaandtheworld.com, also publishes on: lawrencefreeman.substack.com, “Freeman’s Africa and the World, and on X@lkfreemansafrica
