The launch of Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam in Ethiopia will not only play a game-changing role in regional power generation, but also offers opportunities for the development of multiple tourism opportunities.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) along the Blue Nile in the country’s Benishangul-Gumuz region, was officially inaugurated by Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, on September 8.
Tourism experts say the dam’s more than 70 islands, along with its aquatic ecosystems and coastal scenery, open the door for the development of tourism offerings ranging from lakeside lodges to recreational boat and fishing tours. “GERD presents a rare opportunity to transform Ethiopia's tourism landscape, adding watery, scenic, and cultural layers to its attractions,” said Endalkachew Teshome, from the University of Gondar’s Department of Tourism Management.
“With targeted infrastructure, eco- and cultural-packaged offerings, and hospitality development, the dam can help the sector flourish and contribute to local livelihoods and national GDP growth. Strong infrastructure and services are critical – access roads, boat facilities, and hospitality services.”
Teshome said the reservoir had already started to foster a new freshwater fishery scene that could support local restaurants and gastro-tourism.
“Involving local communities in food preparation, storytelling, and cultural performance can provide both an authentic experience and sustainable income. This would create an excellent opportunity for tourists from the Middle East, Europe and Asia to visit various parts of GERD.”
Moreover, when arranging packages for incoming tourists, visiting GERD and its environs could extend their visits to Ethiopia.
The region holds other wildlife and eco-tourism potential, including protected areas such as Didessa National Park – home to the rare Ethiopian wolf and various other species – and Alatish National Park, notable for populations of elephant, leopards and lions.
Getachew Geleta, Lecturer in the Department of Ecology and Life Sciences at Assosa University, said the dam’s ecological impact would be significant.
“When we say that the whole ecosystem will undergo a transformation, we mean that GERD will turn the previously barren lands into a lush green area. In this transformation, three key events will occur. The first is emergence of vegetation, followed by the proliferation of both aquatic vertebrates and invertebrates, and lastly, an increase in biodiversity, which will lead to the discovery of new plant and animal species that we have not encountered before,” he explained.
“When the ecological landscape is changed, it will turn into a recreational zone that attracts visitors.”
