Addis Ababa (KAAB TV) – Just one day after Ethiopia officially inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)—Africa’s largest hydroelectric project—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched a series of high-level diplomatic meetings aimed at promoting regional stability and cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
Among the key figures the Ethiopian leader met was President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia. The two heads of state held talks focused on mutual interests, regional security, and sustainable development.
In a statement shared on social media, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the pressing challenges facing the region.
“This morning, I also met with the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. We discussed the common interests of the region and reiterated our commitment to fostering stability, security, and development throughout the Horn of Africa,” wrote Abiy.
This meeting takes place during a period of notable political shifts and mounting pressures in the Horn of Africa. Countries in the region are grappling with a combination of insecurity, economic hardships, and internal political fragmentation.
Against this backdrop, Abiy’s initiative signals Ethiopia’s intention to play a more proactive and stabilizing role in regional affairs.
The diplomatic engagements follow the inauguration of the long-anticipated GERD, a symbol of national pride and economic ambition for Ethiopia.
While widely celebrated domestically, the dam has also been a source of tension with downstream nations, particularly Egypt and Sudan, who fear the project could impact their share of Nile waters.
Despite these concerns, Ethiopia has continued to frame GERD as a project of continental significance that will bring clean energy to millions and drive economic transformation. The official launch of the dam is expected to be a turning point not only for Ethiopia but also for energy infrastructure across East Africa.
In the coming days, Prime Minister Abiy is scheduled to meet with other African leaders, as Addis Ababa intensifies efforts to enhance its diplomatic reach and leadership in continental matters.
The Ethiopian government appears determined to seize the momentum created by the GERD inauguration to strengthen regional alliances and promote peace, development, and integration throughout the Horn of Africa and beyond.