The staff of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has contributed $100,000 in support of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

The Executive Secretary of IGAD, Engineer Mahboub Maalim presented a check to the Ethiopian Ambassador to Djibouti, Ambassador Suleiman Dedefo at a ceremony held at Djibouti's Hotel Kempinsky. Engineer Mahboub Maalim said the "Renaissance Dam is a significant step towards regional integration and development."

He added that "The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam can be termed as the flagship of a new age not only for Ethiopia, but also for our region." Ambassador Suleiman praised the IGAD staff for their initiative noting that "IGAD's contribution is so important not only as a substantial amount but also as a gesture that heralds that we can independently address our needs and necessities".

Ambassador Suleiman recalled Ethiopia's decision to go ahead with the project using local resources, and with close cooperation of the peoples of the IGAD region. That, he said, would reduce the region's dependency on countries outside the area.

Ethiopia has emphasized it hopes to develop regional manufacturing capability through this and similar regional projects. Other speakers, on the occasion, also emphasized integration among IGAD Member States as a key for prosperity in the region; and the Executive Secretary of IGAD paid tribute to the late Prime Minister Meles's vision and leadership of the region.