Addis Ababa: The success of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a vivid manifestation of transition from poverty to prosperity, Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa said.This year's Pagumen 1 (September 6, 2024) is being marked as 'Transition Day'.GERD, agriculture, tourism and manufacturing industries have been taken as basis of the country's growth by the reformist government.Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa told ENA that the construction of GERD marks the dreams of Ethiopians who have pursued to fulfill for a long time.Citing difficulties faced in the project management during the construction of the dam, he said that it was possible to overcome the challenges due to the reforms implemented by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.As the dam reaches almost its completion stage, he said, adding it has great economic, social, diplomatic and political benefits.Hence, he affirmed that the dam is a mega project that transforms Ethiopians from poverty to prosperity and from darkness to light.Beyond its energy development, GERD has ushered in numerous successes and opportunities, by creating a favorable environment for tourism investment, he further pointed out.Finally, the minister praised Ethiopians living at home and abroad for their unwavering support for the success of GERD.Source: Ethiopian News Agency