World News for Students of English

15-09-2025 07:00

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, calling it a historic achievement.

Built over 14 years on the Blue Nile, it is Africa’s largest hydroelectric project, with the capacity to produce more than 5,000 megawatts of power. The dam is expected to supply electricity to millions of Ethiopians and even export power to neighboring countries. For many families who still live without electricity, this project represents hope for a better future. Ordinary citizens contributed to its cost through donations and government bonds, making it a symbol of national unity after years of conflict.

However, the dam is controversial. Egypt and Sudan worry it will reduce their water supply from the Nile, particularly during droughts. Negotiations among the three countries have failed to produce a binding agreement, and diplomatic tensions remain high. Ethiopia insists the dam won’t harm downstream nations. Beyond electrification, the project is central to Ethiopia’s goal of becoming a regional economic power.

Difficult words: inaugurate (to officially open or begin something important), controversial (causing public disagreement), drought (a long period without rain), electrification (the process of bringing electricity to places).

You can watch the video news lower on this page.